As far as the lcd protector goes, I use the GGS brand. Order them on EBAY.

"Much" is a very long stretch in my book. The only reason I use a uv filter is to protect my L lens. If each lens was only $10.00 then I think the UV filter companies would not sell much stock. As for when to use circular polarizers, one guy explained it to me this way. When to use?, when you go outside and you need sunglasses.

If it were me,I would try to buy a used lens from someone on one of the forums. Usually the members try to be honest in their condition descriptions. They have a vested interest in doing so, their reputations. The problem I have with buying used lens is that the popular ones don't lose their value much. In those cases I normally go ahead and buy a new one. The upside is if you decided to sell a really nice used lens you don't take much of a hit. I haven't bought on ebay. The auction thing gets people excited and that drives the prices up, so I never really see a bargain there. Plus I'm not as comfortable buying there as much as on the forums.

I would think the second and third. In the second I wonder what has her attention. Lil' darling. You're lucky.

The riverboat is nicely done. Gorilla looks like a cutout glued to a backgound.

Lower pov for sure. Less trunk and more water to tell more of the story. And perhaps some fill flash on the trunk to make it more interesting.

One thing I would try is flip your camera around for a vertical shot.

There are many options with the T3i. There are not only Canon but many very good lens from Sigma, Tamron, Tokina etc. Part of the fun of the camera you have will be browsing over the choices available to you. Besides the many choices of lens is the prices that can fit just about every budget. One that comes to mind for your camera is the Canon 55-250mm. Used in nice condition about 150.00. A solid lens at a good price. Since I have the same camera I can speak from some experience. You made a good choice of camera, now have some fun.

It would help if you can give an idea as to what you want to invest in a camera and lens.

24-105mm. Allows you to "melt" into the background and let the guests be more spontaneous.

If you can use an EF-s lens the 18-135mm would get you to the lower end without bruising the bank account. Another great little lens is the new Sigma 18-50mm 2.8-4.5. $200.00 and does a very nice job.

The first thing I would ask myself is do I want a full frame or a "crop" camera. That will help narrow the choices considerably. I have both. A Canon T3i crop camera and a Canon 5D mark II full frame camera. The 5D mark II is more of a "pro" camera but the T3i is a fun camera that does a very nice job also. Each has it's advantages and disadvantages. Take your time and do the research.