Are you just starting out in photography? There’s a big chance you’re excited about the various tools and accessories that could help you get better photos. But actually, these aren’t limited to the bits and baubles you can attach to your cameras. In today’s featured video, UK-based travel and adventure photographer James Popsys shares his list of things that he believes beginner photographers should buy — including non-photography related items.

“Over the past number of years, I have found that there are a number of different products that help me to stay out with my camera for longer,” Popsys says in his introduction. He adds that in his experience, “there is a huge correlation between the amount of time we’re willing to spend out with our camera and the likelihood of getting some photos that we quite like.”

Admittedly, some of these items aren’t absolute necessities for beginner photographers. But, they’re more like “nice to have” items to make your time doing photography more enjoyable. A comfortable and durable pair of shoes, for example, will allow you to keep walking during a street photo walk or en route to landscape shoot.

Even camera bags, he says, can get in the way of beginner photographers spending more time shooting. By using camera bags on the more compact side, you’re essentially carrying only the most important gear with you. This way, you’re not distracted by the extra weight and extra gear that you may not need or use.

Do you agree with these suggestions from James Popsys? Have any of these items helped you while you were starting out in your photography journey? What would you add to the list? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!