Lens Accessories
One drawback to less expensive digital cameras is their lack of interchangeable lenses. However, if a camera has a screw-thread ring inside the front of the lens barrel, it can probably accommodate supplementary lenses and filters. When shopping for a digital camera, you may want to look for one with an interchangeable lens capability, especially if you plan to take many different types of photos.
Photographic filters are used to correct the color of light or provide a special effect. Some important filters are as follows:
UV (ultraviolet): A UV filter removes ultraviolet light, which commonly shows up in the background of distant shots as a bluish haze. A UV filter is also a great tool for protecting your camera lens.
Polarizing: Polarizing filters remove glare caused by reflected light and tend to improve color saturation. A polarizing filter will darken a blue sky (which is usually needed in most digital shots) and add richness to colors.
Neutral density filters: When taking pictures in brightly lit situations, a neutral density (gray) filter will reduce the light coming through the lens so that you can use a wider aperture to get less depth of field.
A lens hood or lens shade hinders unwanted light from striking the lens and creating flare. It also affords your lens some protection from knocks and bumps.
Look for a camera with a protective lens cap that automatically covers the lens when the camera's power is turned off. Barring that, attach your lens cap to the camera with a string to help prevent your losing it.
Keep your lens free of dust and grit in order to protect the glare-reducing coating and the glass itself. A lens cleaning kit with a blower brush and lint-free tissue is a must. Protect your lens by keeping a UV filter on it at all times.
Try to hold onto the lens cap that came with your digital camera; because the digicam lens caps are so small, it's hard to find replacements. If you do come across a lens cap that fits your digital camera, it might be a good idea to invest in a spare.
