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If you've just bought your first DSLR camera then your bank balance might be looking a little lower than it did so please don't be tempted to rush out straight away and go mad on accessories. Photography can be an expensive hobby, and in the long run it's a good idea to spend some time thinking about what extra kit you will actually get the most use from.

Oddly, DSLRs manufacturers all seem to bundle their cameras with one or two lenses, but none of them as far as I'm aware include a memory card. So, seems as it's going to be impossible to take any photographs without one, your first accessory will need to be a memory card. The price of these are falling all the time, which can only be a good thing in my book. 1gb cards are available for less than 10/$20. If you've bought a DSLR then you're likely to have a 10megapixel (or above) model, so keep in mind that these will produce images with a fairly large file size. You might want to invest in several memory cards. I can't comment on models of DSLR that I don't use, but, with my 10.2megapixel Sony Alpha I get about 270 images in RAW format on a 4gb card (about 900 in fine JPEG format). If you google 'compact flash' or 'memory cards' then you get lots of retailers of memory cards to have a look at, so shop around for the best prices.

A good quality camera bag is an excellent early choice of accessory. Most DSLRs are fairly sturdy constructions, and will withstand some knocks, but a decent padded bag not only protects your camera, but also other accessories (and the larger ones will have room for other important things like your packed lunch). The range of camera bags and cases available is huge, and it can be very difficult to pick out the best one for your needs. However, even the smallest bags/cases will usually have room for your camera and an extra lens. My advice would be, if you can, to go to a retailer and take a look at what's available (even if you don't eventually buy from there). Check out how much padding and protection is offered by different bags/cases, how much stuff you can fit in, and whether they are comfortable to carry.

Most DSLR cameras come bundled with a lens or two these days, so you probably won't need to purchase additional lenses straight away, unless you have a very definite idea about the kind of photographs you are going to be taking. It's very easy to flick through the latest magazines and be seduced by the glossy pictures of new lenses. There are literally dozens available for most

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