Suggestions to spend some money

**the_d** · 10-04-2010, 11:29 AM

My boss, being the wonderful woman that she is, gave me an end of season bonus of a $500 Amex gift card (given with the instruction to buy photography equipment). I have about $330 left on it and am looking for some fun suggestions as to what to get.

Currently I have:
A 7D
50mm 1.4
11-16 1.8
28-135 IS
100mm Macro 2.8 IS
17-55mm 2.8

All lenses have UV filters. I also have a Tamrac backpack and shoulder bag as well as a basic Sunpak tripod.

Any and all suggestions are welcome (serious, or not). Thanks guys (and gals).

**Skippy** · 10-04-2010, 02:26 PM

Oh goodie we can help spend someone else's money. How about a vest of many pockets. Always handy when going out. I don't leave home with out one.

A good flash with a remote so you can sit off camera. A monopod for the club work, if it doesn't get in the way.

Or you could put it towards a new lens. Always need more of those.

Skippy

**Sage** · 10-04-2010, 02:44 PM

Lucky you. I'd look seriously at finding some off-camera lighting. You have a nice assortment of lenses perfect for studio/portrait work. If the lighting is too expensive, backdrops/props are nice too as well as a light box for product shots. Don't know what your interest is, but all these items give you options. ~~Peg

**bobmielke** · 12-25-2010, 08:00 AM

Manfrotto tripod, Black Rapid R7 camera strap, Really Right Stuff custom L-Plate & matching tripod quick release plate.

**wtlwdwgn** · 12-25-2010, 10:53 AM

You have plenty of stuff. I, on the other hand, need more stuff. So just put it in an envelope and send it to.......

Actually Bob has the right idea. Nothing like a good tripod to support your gear inside, outdoors, and at night. Enjoy.

**Boutte** · 03-03-2011, 02:26 PM

Sounds like you need a good long lens.

**boatwake** · 03-03-2011, 02:39 PM

You have some great gear already, I would upgrade from the sunpak tripod. I love the manfrrotto line and noticed a huge difference when I upgraded.

**JimL** · 03-03-2011, 03:01 PM

I'll throw in with a good tripod, carbon fiber with legs that splay out so you can get to ground level and with a good quick release plate and head.

Jim

**PPPhoto** · 03-03-2011, 06:25 PM

I'm torn between the tripod upgrade and the flash. If you find yourself using the tripod often, then definitely upgrade that first. I've sold the Sunpak tripods for years, and although they are the best we've sold in that price range, they definitely are not high end or heavy duty.