Which accessories would you recommend for an enthusiastic hobbyist?

[BoricuaBruni]

Hi!

I have the T6s, and the following lenses:  an 18-55 kit lens, an 18-135 kit lens, a 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 lens, and a 50 mm lens.  Some accessories I've purchased are the MeFoto aluminum roadrip travel tripod/monopod kit, bags for each lens, a 'raincoat' for the camera, and a rapid fire camera strap.  I also have an iphone 6 and an ipad (haven't tried the "wi-fi nfc options" to transfer pictures to my iphone yet, but, if there are any accessories to make the transfer easier, I'm all ears, as I've read it's much easier with an android phone.

I don't have any hoods for my lenses, filters, remote shutter, bubble spirit level, speed lites,...  Which accessories (other than lenses) would you suggest/categorize as a must-have or aspire-to-have, with no specific price point in mind?

Thanks all!

[BoricuaBruni]

Thanks for the recommendation. Will be adding it to my wishlist.

[RobertTheFat]

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@ebiggs1 wrote:

A flash is a nice to have but is getting less useful as cameras get better.

:

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You're kidding, right? What do you use to brighten the faces of backlit subjects? A pocket mirror?

[BoricuaBruni]

Waddizzle,

Yes, a backpack is my back's best friend, unfortunately, I've encountered many museums in Europe require you to 'check' your backpack.   And handing it over and watching it placed in a cubby, ala kindergarten-style, is stressful.  So, I've yet to find a "perfect" bag for my solo travel needs.

[BoricuaBruni]

Scott,

Woohoo, I have the first 4 items you mentioned.  Several people are suggesting the flash, so it'll definitely make it's way into my "kit" along with the reflector and light stand.  Thanks!

[Waddizzle]

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@BoricuaBruni wrote:

Waddizzle,

Yes, a backpack is my back's best friend, unfortunately, I've encountered many museums in Europe require you to 'check' your backpack.   And handing it over and watching it placed in a cubby, ala kindergarten-style, is stressful.  So, I've yet to find a "perfect" bag for my solo travel needs.

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Yes, that's why I called the big one "my kit", and then also suggested a smaller one for travel, my tote.

[EDIT] When I want to travel "ultra-light" I use a Toploader Pro 75 AW II Holster Bag from Lowepro.

[BoricuaBruni]

Hi ebiggs1,

I consider myself a beginner/hobbyist, shoot in manual, have owned a dslr for a few years, and spend the most time with my camera when I'm on vacation, special events, etc.  I don't shoot enough to spend $1000s on a lens, but at some point in the next few years will upgrade some lenses.  My 18-135 is an STM and my 50 mm is f/1.8. 

Thanks.

[BoricuaBruni]

Thanks TTMartin for your input.  My 18-135 is an STM, so I'll be keeping it along with my 50mm f/1.8.  I'm not in the market at this time for more lenses, as they are pricey and not a necessity for me, although I'm not opposed to a gifted and expensive lens...(i keep a wishlist for my loved ones to use during the holidays).

[BoricuaBruni]

Thanks for the bag recommendation.  Will check it out.

[ebiggs1]

"My 18-135 is an STM and my 50 mm is f/1.8. "

Sell them and the 18-55 no matter what letters it has.  Then you can put that money towards a real lens. The EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens because you will eventually anyhow.  Might as well have it today. You will quickly outgrow the lenses you currently have.  But this really does depend on whether you want to stay a beginner in a beginner class or move on.  I can't make that decision for you.  But I can tell you what better lenses can do for you.  Lenses are where its at. So what will it be?

[ebiggs1]

Bob from Boston,

"You're kidding, right?"

I am not.  A flash would be way down on my list if I was watching money as this OP likely is.  I have six 580 ex II and don't know how many older flashes on the shelves of my formerly stop bath stained darkroom.  They quietly occupy that shelf space and gather dust for the most part.

I am booked up all ready this year for Senior photos and I bet I don't use a single flash.  I might take a couple silver/white reflectors, though.  If I shoot in the studio I will use real strobes.  Bob from Boston you really need to learn how to use Photoshop!