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Gail's Blog
My XSi accessories
There are lots of accessories available for digital single lens reflex cameras. I'm going slowly and will gradually add to my accessory arsenal. Here's what I have to date:
Canon lenses
18-55mm IS kit lens
55-250mm IS lens
50mm f1/8 II lens
Anti-glare LCD protector
The first accessory I get for any digital camera I own is an anti-glare LCD screen protector. I take a lot of photos in bright sun, so using an anti-glare protector is a must.
Even though I use the viewfinder for framing shots, I check the LCD for settings and to review photos. I've been using screen protectors from BoxWave for some time, not only for my cameras but also my ipod. The product is effective and easy to apply and reapply. [Learn more]
Ultraviolet filters
I consider UV filters a cheap insurance to help protect the front element of lenses. I bought two 58mm Canon UV filters, one for the kit lens and one for the Canon 55-250mm IS zoom lens.
The filters absorb ultraviolet rays as well as help prevent haziness and foggy effects in distant landscapes. Except when using a polarizer, I leave the UV filters on the lenses at all times to protect the front elements from abrasions, dust and moisture.
Polarizing filter
I use a Tiffen polarizing filter, which reduces or eliminates glare from reflective surfaces such as glass and water. Overall color saturation, especially outdoors, often significantly improves. I simply love the way a polarizer deepens the color of skies. Lenses with rotating front elements make using polarizing filters a bit tricky, but it can be done [Learn how].
Lowepro Nova 170 AW camera bag
The Lowpro Nova 170 is well made, and is lightweight and roomy enough to hold my XSi, two lenses and several accessories. It has an indispensable all weather cover.
Sandisk Four Gig Extreme III SDHC card with MicroMate card reader
Holds about 173 RAW + JPEG images and over 700 JPEG only. A new card reader may be required if you buy a Secure Digital High Capacity memory card [Learn why].
Aquapac SLR Camera Case with Hard Lens
This relatively inexpensive 100% waterproof case, protect smy XSi from the elements at the beach and when in a boat. It even floats if I should, heaven forbid, drop my camera overboard. Can be used for snorkeling too.
Tripod and monopod
Inexpensive, but sturdy. Lack a lot of features. I've had them for a long time but they are barely used. However, with a DSLR I may need to use a tripod or monopod more often than I like.
Related reading: Top ten accessories for DSLR users
