Camera Department

Camera Accessories

Tripods, stabilisers, mounts, and essential add-ons that transform your camera work from shaky amateur to steady professional.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more

Why Accessories Matter

The right accessories can transform amateur footage into professional-quality family documentaries. A steady tripod, reliable memory cards, and a comfortable bag make you more likely to capture those precious moments.

These aren't glamorous purchases, but they're the foundation of consistent, quality storytelling. A shaky handheld interview is hard to watch, no matter how expensive the camera.

How to Use Your Gear Effectively

Tripod Setup for Interviews

Extend legs equally for level shots. Camera should be at subject's eye level (adjust centre column). Use the level bubble. Tighten pan/tilt head. Lock all legs. A stable tripod prevents fatigue and allows you to focus on the conversation, not the camera.

Fluid Head Movement

Loosen the pan/tilt controls slightly. Practice smooth, slow pans. Use both hands. Start and end movements gently. Fluid heads have adjustable drag - heavier cameras need more resistance. For interviews, usually lock it down.

Camera Bags for Family Events

Pack camera, two lenses, batteries, memory cards, cleaning cloth. Keep heavy items close to your back. Rain cover accessible. Tripod on the side. Proper bag protects investment and makes you more likely to bring equipment to events.

Our Recommended Accessories

Essential Must-haves for every kit

Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod

~$50-75

Lightweight aluminium, quick-release plate, joystick head. Perfect for mirrorless cameras. Extends to eye level. Folds compact. Best budget tripod available.

Check Price Affiliate link

Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L

~$125-180

Weatherproof, expandable, quick-access. Holds camera + 2 lenses comfortably. Can wear all day at family events. Dividers are rearrangeable. Lifetime guarantee.

Check Price Affiliate link

SanDisk Extreme Pro SD 128GB

~$20-30

Fast write speeds handle 4K video reliably. 128GB holds ~2 hours of 4K. Buy several. These cards have saved countless family stories from corruption or loss.

Check Price Affiliate link

Recommended Level up your setup

Manfrotto 502AH Video Head + Tripod

~$250-380

Professional fluid head. Smooth pans and tilts. Quick-release plate. Supports up to 7kg. This is what documentary filmmakers use. Built to last decades.

Check Price Affiliate link

DJI RS 3 Mini Gimbal

~$250-380

Motorised stabilisation for mirrorless cameras. Cinematic floating camera movements. Walking interviews become smooth and professional. ActiveTrack follows subjects. Battery lasts all day.

Check Price Affiliate link

Think Tank Photo Airport Roller Derby

~$380-500

Rolling camera backpack. TSA-approved carry-on size. Holds full kit: 2 camera bodies, 4-6 lenses, laptop, accessories. For serious family documentarians who travel. Indestructible.

Check Price Affiliate link

Pro Tips

Buy the tripod FIRST - even cheap cameras benefit from stable mounting
Quick-release plates are life-changing - get several for different cameras
Carbon fibre tripods are lighter but more expensive - worth it if carrying far
Never leave camera on tripod unattended with kids around - recipe for disaster
SD card write speeds matter: V30 minimum for 4K, V60 for high bitrate

Related Categories

Previous: Webcams Next: Audio Department