Digital cameras top the list of this year's hottest holiday gifts. If you're giving the gift of digital this year, or your gift list includes a digital camera user, win kudos by including some accessories guaranteed to help your friend or loved one get more out of their camera.

Here are a few handy accessories for your favorite digital camera user:

Photography book/magazine subscription - Though digital cameras have revolutionized photography, the rules of taking great pictures remain the same: composition, lighting, etc. Consider giving a book on basic photography skills, or a magazine subscription to a publication like PC Photo or Popular Photography & Imaging to help the digital user on your list take better shots.

Digital photo software - Few tools simplify a digital shutterbug's life more than the right digital photo software. Highly affordable programs available today provide just about everything they need to simplify downloading, organizing, enhancing, sharing and printing their photos.

Carrying case - While some cameras come with their own cases, many do not. Yet they're essential for keeping cameras and lenses free of fingerprints and dirt. You can find quality cases - just the right size for a stocking - for around $15-$20.

Color printer - Digital cameras let users print photos right from their home computers. Printer manufacturers have responded to the digital revolution with a broad range of powerful, yet reasonably priced color printers. Choose the model based on the features that will matter most to the user, such as resolution, print speed, and the ability to print both photos and text satisfactorily.

Photo paper - If your recipient has or will be getting a color printer, include some quality photo paper. While glossy is nice, photos on matte paper may be less expensive and will look just as sharp when framed under glass.

Tripod - No holiday is complete without the auto-timed family photo. Mounting the camera on a tripod gives photographers the freedom to place the camera and the group just about anywhere. It also helps keep the camera stable - and eliminate blurred photos - during the longer exposures needed in low-light settings.

CD burner/CDs - A CD burner is an easy way to back up photos or archive them to free space on the computer. Plus, digital photographers can load batches of photos from a special event, like a holiday or wedding, and send them to others. Include a fresh pack of clean CD-RW type CDs as well.

Extra memory card - Ensure the person on your list always has enough memory to click away. Consider giving them an extra memory card, so they don't have to download as frequently. Be sure to choose a card that's compatible with the camera they have (either CompactFlash, SD/MMC, or memory stick).

Memory card reader - A memory card reader, which downloads photos from a memory card onto the computer, saves camera users time and battery power. Downloads are faster than if the camera is connected directly to the computer. Plus, the camera doesn't have to be on, preserving battery life.

Detachable flash - More advanced digital users might enjoy a detachable flash. Though flashes come standard on cameras, their proximity to the lens may distort lighting or cause red-eye. Detachable flashes are further from the lens and can be timed to fire with a longer delay before taking a shot.

Accessory lenses - Another item for more experienced photographers making the switch to digital is an accessory lens, particularly for telephoto or wide angle shots. Make sure the lens you choose is compatible with their camera.

Rechargeable batteries - Finally, make sure the digital camera user in your life has all the power needed to capture any shot. Small and inexpensive, batteries are sure to come in handy.

Source:
Jim Lamb is president and founder of Brilliant Labs, maker of BrilliantPhoto, software that simplifies the organization, enhancement and sharing of digital photos. As the father of two young children, his own photo collection numbers in the thousands. He can be reached at jim@brilliantlabs.com.