For lens protection, there's the standard lens cover. If you want, go for a UV filter as well for some extra protection. Some say a UV filter adds warmth to an image, but personally have never seen the slightest difference with one. There are likely different grades of uv filter. try for a 0 (zero) if there's one, and keep on top of your lens. If you get a crack, at least it'l only be on the useless UV Filter. Always have a strap attached to the camera, and whenever posible, keep that strap around your neck when shooting. It really REALLY sucks to drop a camera on pavement (especially if its not yours... shhh...). if yer shooting with a Digi (which I don't), always keep some extra batteries, and an extra smart/flash or whatever card just in case you fill one up with a bunch of really nice images you dun wanna get rid of. A strudy camera bag is always a good thing. Also, if possible, try to get a very slim camera case, one that fits right around the camera. This is good for when you just wanna carry the bare bones (the camera only) so to speak. Offers a little extra protection, and its easy to get the camera out quickly (when needed quickly) if its packaged. easy to use tripods... don't think there are any. lol Filters are ALWAYS fun. I shoot black and white film usually, and colour filter on black and white shots (digi or film) can lead to some very nice reults, especially dark red filters. that's photo shooting day. Photo darkroom day is a whot other story...