DSLR accessories?

[southernbelle_amy]

I have recently bought a new Nikon D5000 with just the 18-55VR lens. I am thinking of getting a 35mm or 50mm lense too, but can't decide. I also got some studio stuff to put in my basement off of craigslist, just for fun to take pictures of my baby. I am still unclear about filters, hoods, etc...What do you "need" them for. Also any recommendations for good camera straps, tripods, bags would be appreciated. Specifically we are going to the beach in ~2 weeks anything that might be used to help get a better shot there, ie a reflector? Does anybody have a good idea where to put the camera on the beach to avoid heat and sand. thanks for any help.

 

[photo_chick]

My favorite strap is the Crumpler Industry Disgrace. But like anything, what's my favorite might not be yours.

Lens hoods help prevent stray light from entering the lens and cut flare. They can also offer some protection for you lens.

There are many different kind of filters... the most useful in my book are neutral density and a polarizer. I use my neutral density filter to let me take a longer exposure when it's bright out... in simple terms it's like putting sunglasses on your camera. And polarizer is helpful to cut the glare on glass or water. They both have other uses as well.

You don't need a reflector at the beach when the sun is high. Sand is one giant reflector.

 

[mom2rtk]

If you're taking pictures of a baby, you really might find the 50mm length too long. I'd opt for the 30mm so you can stay closer and still get your shot.

And on the beach....... I put the DSLR only in one spot.......... around my neck. We usually stay right on the beach and make multiple trips out during the day. Sometimes I take the camera, sometimes I don't. But the sand just seems to get EVERYWHERE. People walk up, and it gets kicked onto anything sitting around. Once it's on your bag, it's just too hard to keep out of the inside of it. So the only safe spot to me was around my neck or back in the room.

 

[ssanders79]

If you are going to the beach just know that sand will find a way to get on your camera. Just be sure not to change lenses on the beach, if you must go to your car or a nearby shop. Once you get back to the car/hotel/wherever wipe your camera down and get rid of the sand.

I've found I am unable to multi task at the beach. I can either take my camera and stay "clean" or leave the camera behind and have fun in the sand and water. Which is why we went out and purchased a water proof camera.

I purchased the 35mm last November and it hardly ever leaves my camera.

 

[NateNLogansDad]

If you're looking at the 50mm 1.8, it doesn't autofocus on the D5000 but the 35mm 1.8 does.

Definitely don't switch lenses on the beach.

I have the D5000 and got the 55-200 VR as part of a package. The last time we were at the beach, it stayed on the camera the whole time. Much sharper image in my opinion.

For mid-day light, I'd look at a filter to tone it down a little. Make sure it's a circular polarizer filter otherwise, you will have problems with the auto focus.

Best time to shoot is early or later in the day. Sunset pictures came out great on the beach.

Good luck and have fun!

 

[AlbertZeroK]

I would suggest learning about fill flash and possibly a cheap external flash for your camera.

As for the rest, this is what I use:

Black Rapid camera straps
Manfrotto Tripod / Monopod
Paul C Buff AlienBee studio equipment
Portable 580exii flashes with Quantum Plus batteries, stand and umbrella.

Of course, most of that is pricey. You might think about an off camera flash, cheap stand and umbrella for the off camera flash. Most nikon cameras can control an off camera flash without additional equipment, so you may only need the off camera flash (I use Pocket Wizard Mini/Flex combo, alas, it's not available for Nikon.)

You might consider a UV filter for your lenses as protection. Also, check out picking up a Lens Pen.