The "nifty fifty" is a decent lens for the price. As others have mentioned, on a crop sensor, it's a short telephoto. For something this cheap, skip the filter.

A cheap UV filter becomes the weakest link. If you're spending $$$$ on expensive lenses, get high quality filters (preferably B&W, or Hoya). Otherwise, just use the lens hood for protection.

The only filters I use these days are circular polarizer and neutral density filters.

Tripods. Quality tripods and ballheads are expensive. Don't buy the junk stuff that is weak or is susceptible to vibrations.