The p-Code Machine

When purchasing a Digital SLR camera there are a few things, you should get straight away:

A decent photobag, you seriously don’t want to keep your DSLR on a shelf at home… immediately invest in a decent photobag. Buy whatever suits you, just make sure you have plenty of space, and the bag is water resistant, and has a built-in raincoat.

An extra battery, you really don’t want to run out of juice while working with your camera. Recharging usually takes an hour of two. So an extra battery is always a good investment. I’ve personally had good experience with third party batteries from Hahnel. But other third party brands should be fine as well, like Lenmar or Ansmann. I personally don’t really trust no-brand batteries.

A lenspen to clean dirt from your lens (in a safe manner). Usually lenspen’s are cheap and versitile.

A UV filter is generally a good investment, it will keep your lens safe, as well as eliminate some haze. If you buy a UV filter don’t skimp on it. I would recommend B+W or Hoya, make sure you buy a multicoated one.

A lenshood is a good thought. This will save you from a lensflare or two. However do buy a lenshood specifically manufacturer for your specific lens. These usually use a bayonet mount. Beware of cheap generic lenshoods with a screw-on mount. These lenshoods either don’t provide maximum protection or cause vignetting.

Now we have the really important stuff covered, there are some things you won’t need everytime, but are great to keep around. Someday you’ll be glad you had it in your bag:

Rainsleeves are a must if you’re expecting bad weather. Rainsleeves will keep your camera safe from the elements while taking pictures. Note, that most entry level DSLR’s are not weather proofed!

A spare lens cap is great to have in your bag. I usually use the original lens cap as a spare, and buy one of these for everyday use. They’re much more convenient when used with a lenshood.

Gary Fong’s Puffer, to diffuse your on-camera strobe. Reducing the flashed face effect.

Opentopped gloves are essential for winter time. Without these my hands usually get stiff, prohibiting me from operating the camera in a timely fashion. Gloves will keep your hands warm, the open tops will prevent them from compromising your dexterity.

I also keep a cheap cardreader and a USB Stick (with Ubuntu) in my bag, just in case I need access to my memory cards somewhere.

Some business cards are a good thing to keep in your bag as well. I like Moo MiniCards.

If you’re a member of a photography association, you’re probably better of keeping the card in your bag than in your wallet.

I also keep a few bandaids and some tylenol in my bag, just in case. You don’t to bleed all over your camera do you?