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I love photography gadgets and some of them turn out to be surprisingly handy. The other day I went through my gadget box and picked out a few that turned out to be really worth the money. There were more that should get honorable mention but didn’t get included because they didn’t make the price target.
Just to be fair I tried to pick out gadgets that would work with any camera as I tend to be a little Canon-centric in my gear selections. Here’s what made the cut.
A White Shoot-Through Umbrella
If there is a less expensive and more versatile lighting source in photography, I have yet to find it. A $15 white shoot-through umbrella is inexpensive, easy to set up anywhere and you won’t shed any tears if it gets broken. The quality of light is excellent and you’ll be able to produce some flattering portraits indoors or outside.
A Monopod
A monopod can be just the right mix between a tripod and handheld shooting. It can also function as a periscope. I use the self timer, Live View and monopod at crowded press conferences to get up over the heads of the other reporters. When I’m shooting on the go a monopod is irreplaceable.
Mini Flexi Tripod
Somewhat ironically the flexible tripods don’t work so well on flat surfaces but they are super for turning handrails, park benches and tree branches into impromptu camera stands. It’s a lot easier to slip one of these into your backpack or bike panniers than a full size tripod.
A Big Hotshoe Bubble Level
Get yourself a big, fat 3-axis hotshoe bubble level. It’s a lot easier to see than the tiny levels on your tripod base and works in any camera orientation. These are virtually indispensable for shooting landscapes and panoramas.
A Wireless Remote Trigger
So inexpensive and yet so useful. Great for self portraits and group shots that need to include the photographer. Make sure you pick one that supports Bulb mode so you can use it to experiment with light painting and other fun projects.
A Rocket Air Blaster
Dust and dirt are no match for the Rocket Air Blaster though be cautious getting it near your camera sensor. Get it too close and the force of the air stream and can mar the sensor cover.
A Hand Strap
Ditch the neck strap and get yourself a hand strap. You’ll be amazed at how much better it feels to get that load off your neck and shoulders.
A Pistol Grip
Bonus if it has a fitting on the bottom to mount it on your tripod or monopod. A pistol grip can be just the ticket for stability while you’re moving but where it really shines is when you’re shooting video.
Tulip Lens Hood
Think of a tulip lens hood like the brim of your ball cap. It keeps reflected light off your lens.
Softbox Flash Diffuser
For the times you don’t have room to pack a shoot-through umbrella you can turn your external flash into a portable softbox.
