What to buy after getting S5

[shellyshell]

As a couple of you may recall, I've been researching cameras and was trying to decide between S3 or S5. I'm quite sure I'm going to get the S5. I've noticed on a lot of websites (including sellers on EBay) that I can include a "package". I have a feeling the items in these packages are not very good; are my feelings accurate? Should I just get the camera and get the must-haves separately?

I know I'll need a memory card, but what kind? The review mentions a 4GB SDHC card. It also mentions a speed rating of at least 60X for SD or Class 4 for SDHC. Is this what people have found to be best? What is the difference between SD and SDHC? Do "packages" usually offer these good cards?

The review also mentions getting a set or two of NiMH rechargeable batteries (2500 mAh or better) and a fast charger. Can someone define "fast" for me?

In sum, what "must-haves" do I actually need as a beginner? Memory card, case, rechargeable batteries...? Anything else? What about one of those memory card readers?

I apologize for my ignorance and all of my questions. This will be my very first digital camera and I'm very excited to learn more! Thank you all! :)

[Andrizzle]

I would say get the S5 by itself first since it does have a very versatile lens, and then if you feel you need more zoom, or wish the camera would take more in when it is zoomed all the way out, then look into getting another lens.

Not only are packages not usually the best deal moneywise, but they don't usually feature the best quality lenses or filters either.

If you decide after spending some time with the camera that you need more range, you can look around and decide which lens you think offers the best quality pictures and the best range. A great resource for lenses is Lensmate (http://www.lensmateonline.com/newsite/S2.html). Not only do they offer adapters, they also have sample photos for a whole range of lenses.

Another option is to get an adapter from Lensmate or canon, and a polarizing or UV filter. I do this when I'm heading to a particularly sandy/windy/dusty/wet location to protect the lens and it's mechanism. This is also more of a personal choice, some people are against filters and believe they have a negative impact on image quality, but that hasn't been my experience.

SDHC stands for Secure Digital High Capacity, which means an SD card 4GB or higher. I bought a SanDisk Extreme II 2GB card when I bought my S3 since the review said the camera utilizes faster SD cards. But I received a regular old 2GB SanDisk SD card as a gift and do not notice any difference in performance.

I have a few sets of 4 2500mah rechargeable batteries, but I do not have what you would call a fast charger. Some people swear by them, some say they damage your batteries. In any case, at least with the S3, a fresh set of batteries will last you quite a while so I have never had the need for a "fast" charger.

One thing that I find comes in handy if you are planning on taking any long exposure or night shots is a tripod. I don't have anything fancy, just a little old one that my grandpa used to use, but it's very portable and very handy, so I guess that is something to consider.

In any case, I would advise against a package.:)

[Andrizzle]

Oh, and as for cases, I picked up a Canon PSC-75 Deluxe Soft Case (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-PSC-75-Deluxe-Digital-Cameras/dp/B0009NEUO0/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/002-8318168-4358469?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1184739117&sr=8-1) before I got my lens adapter. It's relatively form fitting, but it has a little pocket on the inside that I've used to hold as much as an SD card and four extra batteries. It is designed so that you can have the neck strap come out of the top and wear the whole thing around your neck, case and all.

I bought it to keep it from getting scratched or turning on if I carry it in my back pack, or convince my girlfriend to carry it in her purse;)

I'd recommend that for protecting the camera, but it isn't really useful if you have lenses to take along or are using the adapter.

[shellyshell]

Thank you for your prompt reply, Andrizzle! I will definitely look into that case as it sounds like exactly what I need, especially since it'll need to fit in my purse. I plan on not getting lenses for a while since I'm a newbie, so I think it'll work fine. I will also heed your advice and just get the camera itself instead of adding the package. I'm glad I don't have to worry too much about the "fast" charger, either!

Again, thank you for your advice! :)

[XaiLo]

Congratulations shellyshell, newegg.com offers some great pricing on the electronics that you may need: batteries, charger, SD cards, and even camera bags. 2filter.com has some great priceing on filters and camera care products. The best thing I can think of to suggest is "Understanding Exposure" Revised Edition by Bryan Peterson it's a lite read and full of practicle examples that will get one started down the road of photography in good fashion, and for uder $20 it's a steel. hth

[dhcalva]

Transcend memory cards are pretty good. Amazon has a 8gb class 6 SDHC one for around $80.

Amazon also has a canon 200 case, a large one, for about $40.

Maha batteries have a good reputation, check the add for Thomas on the front page for a good place to buy them.

Sony TC and WACs also seem to be quite good, I have a set of the 58mm ones that I use.

Lensmate makes good adapters, in aluminum instead of Canon's plastic one.

For a hood, check on ebay for a Hama style 3 position rubber hood.

Hoya makes good filters.