Must have for a photographer?

Of course, a decent camera would be a must. I like to use SLRs, but it's not required. I think also a "style" is important. That is something that makes your photos unique such as the way you set up your compositions.

1. A camera that can grow with you, fitted with a quality lens in a focal length range that suits the work you like to do 2. An inquiring mind 3. An interest in something other than photography - otherwise what you photograph will lack passion 4. Good business sense - photography is a profession as well as an art Anything you add to that list is to help you make good images consistently and will vary a bit with the kinds of photography you are interested in, so no point in saying you need a long lens if you are not into sports or wildlife, or a wide angle lens if you never shoot landscapes. However, whatever you shoot, you want 5. A UV filter (or a skylight) 6. A polarising filter 7. A good computer editing program (Photoshop, PaintShopPro) and the skill to use it 8. A decent tripod and/or monopod 9. A quality camera bag 10. A good flash unit with a turn and bounce head 11. A bit more memory than you think you will need 12. Portable Storage (like a portable hard drive) Lots more I could add, but if you have that, you'll do OK.

I assume by "must haves" you mean must have equipment. Well, first and foremost a DSLR camera (or a film SLR camera if you prefer). As far as lenses go, I would definitely recommend a good walkabout lens- something with a wide range of zoom. I use a 28-300mm because it is so versatile. As for other lenses, it depends on what type of photography you shoot. If you do a lot of nature work, I'd highly recommend a macro lens. If you do a lot of landscapes, then a wide angle is a definite must. If you do a lot of creative stuff, I would recommend either a fisheye lens or a Lensbaby selective focus lens. As for filters, a circular polarizer is a must for any and all photographers! If you only get one filter, get a circular polarizer! A spare battery is also very important! Whenever I'm shooting, I always have a 2nd fully charged battery on me! Also, LOTS of memory cards (or lots of film)! The more the better, and the higher the capacity the better. A good flash is also a must! I would recommend one with TTL automatic exposure. A good, sturdy tripod is also needed. A good camera bag is also a must have! I'm a big fan of the Tamrac Adventure series. They have plenty of room for all of my equipment, plus a top section for any personal items. That would be my must-have equipment list for any general photographer.

My personal must haves are a skylight 1A filter, a polarizing filter (I use an SLR and shoot film), a wide angle lens, and a good cleaning kit. My camera is second hand and very old. I find that some parts get a little dirtier than usual on it. I hope this helps.