Finding the right camera accessories is key to becoming more successful at photography or videography. It’s easier to complete projects when you can grab the proper equipment for a video shoot or photography assignment. If you’re a beginner, the below list of camera accessories for photographers and videographers will help you get started in your chosen field.
9 Must-Have Camera Accessories You Should Get in 2023
Below are the most important pieces of photography or videography equipment you should consider purchasing.
1. Batteries, Grips, and Chargers
While it’s easy to get caught up in purchasing lenses, make sure you have batteries, chargers, and grips available for your upcoming shoot. Many new cameras come with a charger. However, that may not be the case if you buy a used camera. Ideally, it would be best if you use a charger that's designed to work with a specific brand, like purchasing a Canon charger to work with Canon equipment.
You should also look into chargers that are capable of charging multiple batteries. Then, you can have spare batteries charged and ready to go, so you won’t have to cut a shoot short because you ran out of juice for your camera. In addition, battery grips allow you to shoot longer before switching out the batteries. It’s also easier to hold your camera and get your desired angle.
2. Tripod Head
The tripod head attaches your camera to your tripod, making it possible to adjust your shooting angles as needed. Some tripods come with a head already attached, though many do not. Remember that if you purchase a tripod with an integrated tripod head, you can’t swap it out and use a different one. With the right tripod head, you’re free to be more creative with your choice of day or night exposure. Below is an overview of popular tripod head types:
- Ball heads: These contain a rotating ball head that allows for camera positioning at pretty much any angle. There’s a locking screw that allows you to set the camera in a specific position. Ball heads give you more flexibility in how you interact with your camera.
- Pan and tilt heads: These are designed with two axes that allow for independent camera panning or tilting.
- Fluid heads: Fluid heads are similar to pan and tilt heads, but they're designed for video cameras. They come with a drag feature that controls friction when tilting or panning, making it easier to achieve smooth shots when you're filming.
- Pistol grip heads: Pistol grip heads work like ball heads. However, you use a pistol grip to loosen the ball instead of a pin. Some photographers find pistol heads to be faster and less awkward to work with during a shoot.
- Gimbal heads: Gimbal heads offer more flexibility for photographers who work with longer lenses. Gimbal heads center the lens to the tripod while allowing it to move like if it were handheld.
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Panoramic heads: Panoramic heads vary in complexity. Make sure you buy one that suits your specific needs and isn’t more complicated than is necessary for your standard shoot.
3. Spare Batteries and Power Banks
Always have at least a few spare batteries available to help you get through a long shoot. That way, you avoid running out of power before finally getting the shot you’ve been waiting for. Power banks can keep your camera batteries charged for those outdoor shoots with no access to a wall charger. That way, you’re still good if you can’t rely on your AC or HVDC power charger. Most come with a USB port that connects your camera battery to the power bank. Make sure you charge your power bank before you leave home.
4. Memory Cards
Bring extra memory cards that are the right type and fit for your camera. Make sure they are empty so you don’t accidentally overwrite important material. Look for compact memory cards that are small and capable of holding a lot of footage. It’s also a good idea to check out a card’s storage capacity to ensure it has enough space to cover your shoot.
5. Reflectors
Reflectors help photographers and videographers use a single source of light more effectively. Any light hitting a reflector bounces back at an equal angle, letting photographers change how the light hits a subject. For example, you can position a reflector on the right side of a subject to achieve balance when the light source is coming from the left.
Many videographers and photographers use reflectors as a secondary light source. Another great thing about reflectors is that they work well with artificial and natural light sources. In addition, reflectors come in many shapes, sizes, and colors.
6. Camera Gimbal
Camera stability is critical to helping videographers and photographers achieve their perfect shots. Gimbals are handheld devices that allow filmmakers to achieve smooth shots without breaking the budget. They’re a cost-effective way to achieve similar functionality to that provided by a dolly or Steadicam. You can eliminate camera shaking when you’re moving from one point to another while filming.
7. External Hard Drive
Sometimes you need something more robust than a memory card to ensure you have enough space to capture all your footage. External hard drives are useful for transferring filmed footage from your camera for safekeeping. Once you’re done, you can upload the footage that’s stored on the external hard drive to a computer for further review and editing.
8. Camera Bags
Protecting your camera equipment from the various elements is a must. It helps to have a camera bag that’s large enough to hold all your equipment, including your laptop and spare batteries. You should also look for protective dividers that can keep your essential accessories separated so they don't damage one another.
9. Camera Lens Filters
Camera lens filters protect your camera lenses from harsh conditions. Some camera lens filters offer only protection, whereas others also provide enhancements that boost the quality of your shots. They can reduce glare, help eliminate reflections, enhance colors, and reduce the amount of light coming into your lens. When shopping for lenses and filters, make sure you look at the functionality provided.
Level Up Your Photography and Videography With the Right Tools
While we tried to touch on every essential, keep in mind that there’s a whole array of camera accessories for photographers and videographers that can help ensure your work stands out. If you have the basics at your disposal, there’s no limit to what you can achieve behind the lens.
With Omnicharge, you can keep your portable batteries charged and ready to go when you think you finally have the perfect shot at hand. Our power solutions provide different AC/DC charging options for photographers who need to carry around various types of equipment, eliminating the burden of having to carry a different charger for every single piece of equipment you may need. Click here to find a reliable, versatile power option to suit your needs in the field.
