FIGURE A


Use a cable release to improve images, even without a tripod. Photos by Anne Violette. Roll over picture for a larger image.

Favorite #4: Circular Polarizing Filter
Another must-have filter is the circular polarizing filter. In addition to the star filter, this is one I use on a fairly frequent basis. The polarizer is similar to an eagle's eye. Eagles do not see glare when they look at water or at glass buildings because of their eyes eliminate the glassiness.

The polarizing filter acts as an eagle's eye for your camera. When attached, you can adjust the level of glare reduction with a simple twist to the left or right. The polarizer will eliminate glare on water and glass buildings or cars, basically appearing as though you can see right through.

The polarizer also creates extra blue skies and water. Sunsets, sunrises and green grass jump out as brighter. Your picture will look like a postcard with dramatic hues. All the way around, you will love this filter almost as much as your star filter.

Favorite #5: Flash Bracket
While some people may feel that a bracket is one of those extraneous gadgets they could do without, I must admit that I swear by it.

One rule you must remember is that the higher your flash is positioned atop your camera, the better your lighting will be. The flash bracket, combined with a pivoting flash is a perfect accessory. Your red-eyes will be virtually eliminated. The higher flash will create more light in an even manner.

Plus, your camera will look really cool.

People will consider you to be a true professional. Obviously, that's not the main purpose of the bracket; rather an added benefit. The handle will create a comfortable hold for you to carry your camera and shoot with. Forgo that worthless battery pack and use this tool instead.

Everyone has favorite tricks
Every photographer has favorite tricks and methods of manipulating a perfect image. You will find secrets that work best for your personal photography needs, whether you're a landscape shooter, wedding or portrait semi-pro, amateur hobbyist or an aspiring artist.

No matter which category you fall into, the more efforts you make to optimize your equipment, the more your images will improve. You can master the art of photography without expensive college, just by practicing, reading tips from pros and by becoming a sponge that absorbs every bit of information.

My favorite accessories do not make me a better photographer; rather these accessories make my photographs better. Try them. You will see vast improvements in your finished images.

David Gewirtz is the author of How To Save Jobs and Where Have All The Emails Gone? For more than 20 years, he has analyzed current, historical, and emerging issues relating to technology, competitiveness, and policy. David is the Editor-in-Chief of the ZATZ magazines, is the Cyberterrorism Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism and Security Professionals, and is a member of the instructional faculty at the University of California, Berkeley extension. He can be reached at david@zatz.com and you can follow him at http://www.twitter.com/DavidGewirtz.