Here is my list of 5 different camera accessories for $20 or less that I think are worth buying.
1: Fotga Variable ND Filter
I’ve used the Fotga Fader ND filter on too many video shoots to count. If you don’t know what an ND Filter is, it’s kinda like shades for your camera lens. Typically there are three ways to control the light that goes into the camera lens; aperture, shutter speed and ISO. When you introduce an ND Filter you have 4th option. This allows you to take longer exposure photos in brighter light or maintain a consistent shutter angle when shooting video.
Click here to buy the Fotga Fader ND filter
Quick tip: if you are buying a photo filter as a gift or if you don’t know what size filter you need, get the biggest size filter you can and also get a set of step up rings. This will allow you to step up the filter to lower sized lenses.
Need step up rings? Click here!
2 Aluminum Tripod
A good tripod will last you your entire career. I’ve had my $20 tripod for about 6 years or so and I still find myself reaching for it even though I have a $300 tripod with a fluid head and all the bells and whistles. Sometimes I just need a small, light, portable tripod and this one will totally do the trick!
3: Ring Light
The great thing about ring lights is the even light that it spills across your face. It makes skin look smooth and hides blemishes. It’s hard to find lights for $20 or less that are actually any good, but I think this one may be a good choice. It dims, has three color temperature options and is big enough to fit your phone or small mirrorless camera in. Oh! And it also comes with a small tripod and phone clamp for mounting to the light or to a tripod.
4: USB Power Bank
USB power banks save photographers and videographers lives everyday! AND it doesn’t matter how many of these a creative has, they need more. If you’re reading this during the holiday season, you need to know that this is a safe gift that the recipient will 100% appreciate.
5: 5-in-1 Reflector
This kind of reflector is so versatile when it comes to shaping light. Use the silver bounce to reflect hard natural light. Use the white bounce to reflect soft natural light. Use the gold bounce to add a warm tone. Use the black side as a negative fill. And take the cover off to shine a light through to soften a harsh source.
BONUS!
the bonus items here are not $20, but I think they are still a great deal. These microphones are great quality, on camera mics that I’ve used on my videos for YouTube and on professional shoots. They cost around $30, so if you can spare the extra $10 you will definitely increase the quality of your videos if you’re using the built in microphones on the camera.
Thanks for reading y’all! Click here to check out more cheap gear worth buying.