Everyone knows that you need a camera to be a photographer.

And though smartphones are becoming better and better cameras, most of us still use DSLR or mirrorless systems. That means you need a lens, too.

But beyond those obvious choices, what gear do beginner photographers really need?

With so many gadgets and gizmos on the market today, it's no wonder that this question can cause some confusion.

To clear things up, I've made a list of a couple of must-have items that will help fill out your photography kit.

Editor's Note: To illustrate these points, we're using products from Vanguard as examples. Vanguard has a complete line of photography products, from tripods to heads, camera bags to memory cards. Not only that, but Vanguard's products are well constructed, durable, and affordable. You can learn more about Vanguard's products by visiting their website.

A Solid Tripod

If you ask me, the most underappreciated photography gear is a tripod.

Sure, tripods aren't as fun or sexy as a new camera body or lens, but at the end of the day, a tripod can make all the difference in the world regarding the quality of your images.

In fact, there are many situations in which it's the tripod, not the camera or lens, that makes or breaks a shot.

For example, without a tripod, you can't tackle long exposure photography. It's hard to shoot in dim lighting situations without a tripod, either.

With that knowledge, it's important that you not only get a tripod, but a good tripod.

Just like cameras and lenses aren't all of equal quality, neither are tripods.

If you want a great tripod without breaking the bank, give Vanguard a good, long look.

Their tripods, like the Espod CX 204AP shown above and below, offer your camera a solid, stable base for getting tack-sharp images.

This particular model has an ultra-strong canopy and a center column anti-shock ring for improved stability.

With four-section legs, you can adjust the tripod's height to vary the angle from which you shoot. Speaking of the legs, their quick flip leg locks make for easy setup and takedown.

It only weighs 2.2 pounds, too, so it's not like you have to lug around a big, heavy tripod when you go out to shoot.

Learn More:

• Get the Specs and Pricing on the Vanguard Espod CX 204AP Tripod
• Explore Vanguard's Complete Line of Tripods

A Good Camera Bag

Another extremely underrated piece of camera gear is a good camera bag.

Again, not all bags are made alike - trust me, I've had my fair share of bags over the years.

Though it might be tempting to get a bargain-basement bag, it's just a waste of money.

Cheap camera bags don't last, they don't have the capability of keeping your gear organized, and above all, they tend to be incredibly uncomfortable to carry.

Instead, opt for a high-quality, well-built bag like those from Vanguard.

But don't think that because Vanguard knows how to make a camera bag that they're impossibly expensive.

In fact, they have a whole slew of bags for under $100 that are great for beginner photographers.

If you're an on-the-go photographer that needs quick access to your gear, a messenger bag-style camera bag might be the way to go.

The Vanguard Alta Rise 33, shown above and below, is a great option.

This bag will accommodate a DSLR camera with a lens attached, as well as an additional 3-4 lenses, a 13-inch laptop, a flash, and other accessories.

The large top-access panel makes it easy to grab your gear when you need it while the brightly colored interior makes it easy to actually see what's inside.

The padded inserts and dividers hug your gear and protect it from bumps along the way while the integrated feet on the bottom of the bag ensure your gear stays clean and dry. The integrated rain cover helps in that endeavor as well!

If things like landscapes are more your thing, a backpack design might be more useful.

The Vanguard Adaptor 46 is an ideal candidate.

It's a sling backpack, so you get the best of both worlds. And since it will carry a camera, 3-4 lenses, a laptop, accessories, and a tripod, it's got all the room you need for all your gear.

That means that as your kit grows over time, you won't need to get a bigger bag!

It's got access panels on the left and right sides, making it super easy to get your gear.

The harness and the back of the bag are both well-padded for a comfortable carrying experience as well.

Naturally, inside is a padded paradise for your gear, and outside are double security buckles to ensure your camera and other accessories are safe and sound.

In other words, these bags have been designed by photographers, for photographers, so they're packed to the gills with awesome features. That's just what you want in a great camera bag!

Learn More:

• Get the Specs and Pricing on the Vanguard Alta Rise 33 Messenger Bag
• Get the Specs and Pricing on the Vanguard Adaptor 46 Backpack
• Explore Vanguard's Complete Line of Camera Bags

Wrapping It Up

There's a ton of other gear you can buy, but for my money, a quality tripod and a good camera bag should be the first things you purchase after your camera and lens.

As I noted above, a tripod extends your ability to take better photos - and more varied types of photos at that.

And a good camera bag allows you to protect your gear and carry it with greater ease and in greater comfort.

What's not to like about that?!