The vertical grip for the A700. Easier vertical picture taking, double battery life, and the grip has all the functions you are used to on the built in camera.

Probably the best lens for the money - especially considering how cheap this one is. If you can't afford the G 70-300mm lens, this is the one to choose. I've read that the Sigms 70-300mm APO has less purple fringing and it is only a little more expensive (for a lens) - of course it is heavier too; but I've heard that gears sometimes strip on the Sigma. FF

If you can afford it, the lens has is very nice with SSM - as you would expect from a G-class lens. Beware though, the hood is very large and when attached it looks like you're carrying around a small canon. FF

A great lens, but I frankly don't see enough quality difference between it and the 90mm Tamron to make it worth it. You can probably find an old Minolta 100mm for cheaper as well - I use an old Minolta, which is fantastic. FF

The first G lens I'm putting a lot of thought into buying. The Sigma 50-500mm is over $1000 now and for $500 more you get a G lens with SSM. Lot will depend on the performance once it comes out and if I think I need that extra 100mm.

The "Bigma". Good lens for the range. Its biggest draw back is its heft. Many will say you can't shoot handheld with it, but an equal number say you can (probably depends on your strength and endurance). I'd suggest a monopod or tripod though just in case. I'm waiting till the Sony 70-400mm G comes out before buying a super long tele now. FF

Monopod. Slightly shorter than the 681B, but fits into a carry on (diagonally). The 681B does not. Makes sure you get a head.

Reads CompactFlash cards. Faster than connecting the camera to the computer and doesn't drain battery.

Nice pack and I like the quick camera access. Straps are easier to control than the Tamron Adventure 9. It's missing the ability to carry a tripod though. One bit of warning though, the A700 moves a bit in the bag (plenty of padding though) without a vertical grip being attached. The upper compartment is big enough for lunch :) and the laptop compartment should make flying a little easier.

Prime wide lens. Gets excellent reviews. If landscape is your thing, this is a good choice. FF

This would probably be by choice over the 12-24mm Sigma (but I have no plans to go full frame). Gets good reviews and provides that extreme wide angle (7 more mm than the 17-50mm). APS-C

The old minolta 50mm f/1.4 usually sell for $200-250 (and going up) on ebay now. Lens is sharp and fast. Everything you should expect. The 17-50mm Tamron when stopped down can gives me pretty good quality shots at 50mm so I'm not in a hurry on this one. FF

Tamron version of the Sony lens or Sony version of the Tamron - I'm not sure. The ultimate for "walking around". It won't match the quality of a specialty lens, but it is probably the best generalist. APS-C

It's out. It's got good reviews. It's cheaper than Sony ($1800) - shocker I know . Should be a worthy replacement of the Beercan (minolta 70-210mm f/4) if you don't mind the weight and not having SSM. The Sony is the only way to go though if you want SSM. FF

I'd love to have this lens, but simply cannot afford it. If I shot full frame I might consider it, but I don't. This is a full frame lens as well, so if you ever decide to upgrade to the future Sony FF alpha it will stay with you. FF

I don't often have two drained batteries, but this would be nice when I do. That said, I can't convince myself that a battery charger should cost over $100.

A head for the tripod or monopod. This or the 488 would be my choice. The quick release works very well and it is easy to attach and release the camera.

Yeah. Right.