Let's start with the basics, which usually come with the camera. A lens to attach to the camera, a lens cap, to keep the camera lens from getting scratched, and a neck strap, to make sure that expensive piece of equipment isn't dropped. These accessories are vital for keeping your camera safe and usable.
A standard lens comes with the camera, but there are more out there to buy and enhance your camera with. There are many different types each with its own specific focal length and it's own use. There are many kinds of specialized lenses for specific work, so I'll only name a few of the most common. One kind is the Wide Angle Lens, with is used for landscape photography, architecture, or large groups of people. The wide angle can capture more on a broader scope without moving farther away from the object. Another type of lens in the medium telephoto or portrait lens. As the name foreshadows, this the appropriate lens to use for portrait photography. The lens has specialized framing for photographing faces and shoulders. A third kind of lens is the telephoto lens which is used by sports and wildlife photographers due to its enhanced zooming abilities.
Another very useful camera accessory is a tripod or monopod. These are very important for a photographer because they keep the camera steady when taking a picture. A tripod is best if you need absolute stability, so if you are taking pictures of people or if you have to keep rearranging the object. A monopod is great if you will be moving around a lot. A lot of sports photographers use monopods to get a steady picture without the bulk and hauling of a tripod.
Flashes are also important for certain kinds of photography. There are built-in flashes in most camera and there are also externally mounted flashes. These can be tricky to master, because you don't want a picture to be too bright but if used right, they can drastically improve images. There are also off camera flashes that are set up at a different angle than the camera is shooting from, such as the big cone or umbrella looking flashes photographers use when taking your school picture.
One of the most important accessories is a memory card, or film for a film camera. There are many types and sizes and most cameras usually only take a specific kind. With all these accessories, things can get a little hectic, so a camera bag is a must. Mine is big enough to fit my equipment (minus the tripod) and is also heavily padded and waterproof. A camera bag carries very expensive and important things, so it's essential to choose one that fits your needs and will keep your camera safe. These extras can get pricey so making sure they can be used is very important.
“These are the two basic controls at the photographer's command--position and timing--all others are extensions, peripheral ones, compared to them”
― David Hurn
