Make Money with your Digital Photography

Chapter 2. equipment essentials

The quality of a photograph depends more on the vision and creativity of the photographer than on the equipment used to capture it. Still, you need some basic gear from the outset, and you should plan for additional equipment purchases over time. This chapter helps you identify what equipment you need, from inexpensive household items to pricey professional equipment and everything in between.

• 20 dSLR cameras

• 21 image storage

• 24 lenses

• 31 lighting

• 35 tripods and monopods

• 37 miscellaneous camera equipment

• 39 computer equipment

© Erin Manning

DSLR CAMERAS

Although it goes without saying, I'm going to say it anyway: You need a digital camera — preferably a dSLR (digital single lens reflex) camera. A dSLR camera possesses a higher-quality sensor that allows for faster image capture and better-quality images; in addition, it enables you to use different lenses. Figure 2.1 shows a Canon EOS 550D dSLR camera.

Figure 2.1. You can purchase a new camera, do some research online for a good used camera, or borrow one from a friend or family member. Photo courtesy of Canon USA, Inc.

What dSLR is right for you? That depends. Although budget is always a consideration when determining which camera to choose, you should also determine what features you are going to need. For example, ...