Digital SLR Cameras & Photography For Dummies®, 3rd Edition

Chapter 4. Accessorizing Your dSLR

In This Chapter

• Adding memory storage

• Considering your backup storage options

• Sifting through filtration considerations

• Gaining support from tripods

• Understanding electronic flash

• Adding additional add-ons

Remember how cool it was to pick out your school supplies every August before classes began? You got to choose the exact notebook and paper that you wanted. You likely selected your pencils and book covers with the greatest of care. If you're younger than I am, you probably spent a lot of time deliberating over which Trapper Keeper to get. If you're my age, the big decision was which quill pen to buy. If you own a digital SLR, you can experience the same joy of buying school supplies — but all year 'round!

One of the best things about dSLR cameras is that they're almost infinitely expandable. Hundreds of different lenses are available, of course, but that's another whole level of accessorization. I'm talking about add-ons that let you focus closer, operate your camera more efficiently, hold your camera steady for long exposures, or do things that you otherwise couldn't do at all.

I'm sure you already know about some of the accessories in this chapter. Some are a bit more obscure, though. Only a few of them, such as memory cards, are absolutely essential for taking photos. However, you might take comfort in knowing that you can find so many tools available ...