Which of my photographs is my favorite? The one I’m going to take tomorrow – Imogen Cunningham

[my favorite shot - till tomorrow]

I received a lot of emails lately about the type of camera I use for shooting, and the equipment necessary to begin taking good photos. By no means am I a professional. Quite the contrary; I picked up my first DSLR last year, and have been in love with capturing moments in time ever since. It really allows me to see the beauty in every day life, to sit back and smile at a moment I would have otherwise forgotten about. Life's simple pleasures. It is easy to get caught up in "things", and in doing so we forget about the beauty that surrounds us, and even the beauty that radiates from the energy of others.

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I shoot everything with my Nikon D60, and the standard 18-55 lens. The camera and lens combo will run you about $600, but if you plan on traveling, taking up photography, starting a business, or have a blog you want to showcase some of your photojournalism on, the price can definitely be justified in my opinion. You can even start off by purchasing a refurbished Nikon D60 body [varies from $399 on up] from a reputable camera shop [add a warranty too], and buy the lens new [varies from $99].
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I also have a Hoya Polarizing UV filter [$20.00] that is on my camera at all times when I shoot. I use this to filter out light, enhance the the sky, clouds, and landscaping. Filters also help to reduce reflections from certain surfaces, such as glass, and water. A lens filter is also handy because it protects the lens.
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With just those two purchases, you can begin taking photos like the ones below. I took these while attending a march protesting Immigration Bills just a few days after purchasing my camera!
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Have fun, find out if you really dig photography. If you do, there are lots of goodies [some very expensive goodies] that are out there to enhance your experience. A nice little starter kit would include:

• A Nice Sturdy Tripod
• Remote control - Perfect for self-portraits or shooting in certain conditions where you need absolutely no movement.
• External Flash
• Camera Bag
• Wide Angle Lens
• Nikon D60 Book - This book has helped me out IMMENSELY. Even today, it remains an indispensable tool.