When you purchase an automobile, you must consider the total cost of ownership (TCO). How much will it cost to gas up the car, as it may need higher-octane fuel? Does it require expensive tires? Does it require more maintenance with obscure parts?

The same should be considered when purchasing a digital camera. While a digital camera may be a certain price, consider the following accessories you will most likely consider buying to enhance your photography or protect your investment:

* Digital media to store photos

* Media card reader to transfer files to your computer

* Extra rechargeable batteries to prolong photo shoots

* UV Filter to remove UV light and protect your lens

* Protective camera bag

* Accessory lens, and for a digital SLR, you have to buy one lens to begin with

* Tripod to stabilize your photos

* Backup device if you don't have a CD burner

If you purchase the most expensive digital camera you can afford, make sure you don't break the budget when purchasing accessories. You may need to step down a notch in your digital camera's quality in order to pay for needed supplies.

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