Christmas gifts for a photographer
53 Unique Gifts for Photographers
Gift shopping for birthdays and holidays can be a joy or a burden, depending on who you’re shopping for. It can be especially difficult to shop for someone who already has everything, or who doesn’t always say what they want. Fortunately, if that person is a photographer, there’s always something awesome you can get.
Here’s a list of unique gifts for photographers, organized into the following 6 categories:
- Useful Gear and Accessories
- Random But Cool
- Smartphone Photography
- Cameras
- Apparel
- Office Space
There are enough ideas and variety here that you’re sure to find something for every type of photographer, as well as put a few things on your own wish list. But in case you’re still stuck for ideas at the end of this list, check out these t-shirts, mugs, camera straps, and camera bags for photographers, which we’ve excluded here.
Useful Gear & Accessories
When in doubt, get a photographer something useful. These gifts may not seem spectacular, but they’re exactly what a photographer needs.
Think Tank Battery Holder
Batteries can be a pain to find when they’re loose in a bag. With this ThinkTank battery holder, you can keep them organized in one place, cutting down on frustration and giving you more time to shoot.
Nikon 8072 Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
This Nikon cleaning cloth is one of the best on the market. It’s soft yet durable, and when it’s clipped to your bag, it’s fast and easy to find.
LensPen Camera Cleaning Kit
One downside of cleaning cloth is that it can gather grit, which scratches your lens. Another great option is this Lenspen. One end has a brush for getting off grit, and the other end has a carbon swab for removing smudges. You just screw off the cap, clean your lens, then recap right afterward, keeping both your camera and cleaning kit free of dirt.
White Balance Filter
For an inexpensive yet valuable gift, get this white balance filter.
You can use it quickly and spontaneously to set an accurate white balance, free from yellow, red and blue color casts.
Flexible Tripod
The Joby GorillaPod tripod is perfect for outdoor photographers who want to pack light. They can take it into the mountains to get amazing cliff shots, or strap it onto a tree to get cool shots from above.
Floating Tripod Mount for GoPro Camera
Another necessity for an active photographer who loves their GoPro is this floating tripod by Mystery. You can take it on rafting and diving trips to get awesome group shots, or just use it in your pool for interesting underwater selfies.
Memory Cards
A photographer always needs more space for photos, and these Sandisk memory cards are great gifts.
Memory Card Carrying Case
Already have a lot of memory cards? Get this carrying case to hold them all.
External Hard Drive
An experienced photographer probably already has a good external hard drive (like this one by Seagate), but a new photographer might not.
This gift basically says, “Go for it!”
Protective Case for Filters
This inexpensive protective case by Altura Photo will keep your filters safe and organized. It’s a great gift for photographers who are starting to expand their skills and experiment with new gear.
Lens Wrap
A bulky camera bag can be a burden for some photographers, who prefer using whatever bag they already have. This strong, waterproof lens wrap by Tenba allows for that flexibility without compromising the camera equipment’s safety.
Cheat Sheet Cards
Photography can be a confusing skill to learn. These durable, pocket-sized cheat sheets can help make the learning curve easier with quick examples and explanations to common questions.
Sandbag Weights
Sandbag weights can be a lifesaver on windy days. They keep tripods and light stands from tipping over and blowing away, so you can focus on composing shots instead of keeping your equipment steady.
Gaffer Tape
Gaffer tape is like duct tape, only better. You can tear, handle, and reposition it easily, and it sticks to all kinds of floors without leaving residue. Use it for DIY projects, creative shoots, and on-the-spot solutions to unexpected problems.
Portable Lightbox Studio
A lightbox studio is essential for photographing merchandise to sell online, but you can use it for creative still life shots, too. This one is easy to put together and folds flat for storage, so you can have a mini studio even in a tiny apartment.
Camera Slider
A camera slider is something a photographer might not think to purchase, yet it can be incredibly handy during shoots. It allows for fast transitions between shots, like changing focal points with macro photography. You can also take smooth videos like time lapses or attach it to a tripod for interesting angles. And it works with a smartphone, too!
Adobe Photoshop Shortcuts Keyboard
This shortcuts keyboard skin should really be included with every purchase of Adobe Photoshop.
Random But Cool
Trying to find an unexpected yet cool photography gift? Maybe one of these items will catch your eye.
Green Screen Backdrop
This gift could inspire hours of research and watching videos on Youtube, leading to some fun and creative work.
Crystal Ball
No, not for telling your future. This crystal ball is mainly for creating fantastic, 180-degree images – a different type of magic.
A Photographer’s Notebook
This notebook was made for jotting down details you want to remember about a shoot. You can enter your camera and film settings on one side, then put notes, sketches or whatever else on the other side. The notebook also includes a page for camera and film settings, as well a simple “Exposure Guide Chart” for when you leave your light meter in the car.
A Regular Notebook + Inspiring Quote
Or, you can just get a normal notebook with something inspiring on the cover. Perfect for anyone who’s about to embark on a 365 project.
Lens Buddies
This gift would probably confuse a landscape photographer, but a children’s photographer would think,”YES!”
Photography-themed Magnetic Poetry
You don’t have to love poetry to enjoy these photography-themed magnets. You can arrange the magnets to create favorite quotes, tips, or reminders to inspire your photography every day.
Camera Patent Posters
This set of 4 camera patent posters celebrate the art and beauty of vintage cameras. Created by an award-winning artist in North Carolina, the posters capture the spirit of innovation and engineering behind cameras. They’re cool prints to hang on the wall for photographers and non-photographers alike!
Photography Magazine Subscription
There is something special about seeing photographs in print.
100 Photographs That Changed the World
Pure photography and history inspiration. A perfect coffee table addition.
Camera Cookie Cutter Set
Combine a love for photography with a love for cookies, and you get this.
Smartphone Photography
The cameras on smartphones are getting so good that even professional photographers sometimes use them instead of a DSLR. For a really cheap gift, take a look at these popular iPhone apps. Otherwise, the following gifts are also great choices.
Camera Lens Kit
That’s right–you can use a lens with a smartphone. In fact, why not use a tripod, too? This camera lens kit provides it all: macro lens, fisheye lens, telephoto zoom lens, super wide-angle lens, tripod and bluetooth camera shutter.
Macro Cell Lens Band
For a unique smaller gift or stocking stuffer, try out this macro lens band. It’s easy to use and fun to play with.
Backup Battery
You know that sinking feeling you get when you notice your phone’s battery is dying? It’s even worse when you’re a photographer shooting with your smartphone. That’s why every photographer needs one or two backup batteries like these ones by INIU.
Portable Charger & Flashlight
Backup battery + cuteness by Yooboa.
Waterproof Case for Smartphones
Dropping your phone in water is even worse than having a dead battery. This waterproof case will take away that stress, so you can go out rafting or sailing without worrying about ruining your phone.
Flash Drive for iPhones
This flash drive by SanDisk is one of the easiest ways to store videos and photos from your iPhone. It plugs right into your phone, so you don’t need to transfer everything to a computer first. It’s especially great for trips, since it’s so small and light.
Printer for Smartphone Photos
If you love being surrounded by good memories and pretty photos, this little printer from Fujifilm makes that much easier. It connects directly to a smartphone using the Instax Mini link app, so you can easily print your smartphone pictures at home.
Game of Phones
With this game, you can show off your photos and use your phone during parties without being antisocial.
Cameras
Cameras are always a good gift choice for photographers. It doesn’t necessarily have to be an expensive DSLR. A simple point-and-shoot can be a lot of fun, too.
Holga Camera
Forget perfection. The Holga camera is meant for having fun. If you’re getting burned out from post-processing and technical stuff, take time to relax with this simple plastic camera. The photos will be flawed and beautiful, allowing you to rediscover the joy of shooting again.
Fujifilm Instax Mini Instant Film Camera
The Instax Mini is small and cute, and it takes great vintage-looking photos. What more do you need?
Polaroid Originals OneStep+
For photographers who love shooting in manual mode, simple toy cameras can feel too limiting. Polaroid has created the OneStep+ with these photographers in mind. Using a Bluetooth-connected app, it combines the simplicity of a classic Polaroid camera with the creative control of a DSLR.
Plus, it looks cool.
Digital Camera for Kids
This simple digital camera, designed for kids 3-10 years old, can be a great gift for photographers with children. It can create an opportunity for bonding over photography, while also helping to keep the real (expensive) camera gear safe!
Random Vintage Camera
If you want to get a vintage camera but don’t know which one to choose, try out this gift. The store Peace Love Cameras will send you a random vintage camera dating anywhere from the 1930s to the 1990s, along with a printed explanation of who it belonged to. The store will also try to give you some information about the camera, such as the years it was produced, where it was made, and what kind of film it takes. The camera won’t be perfect, but it’ll be in good condition for its age and no doubt fun to play with.
Apparel
There’s no shortage of photography-oriented clothes and accessories. The following gifts are good choices for photographers who like to wear their passion on their sleeve, hands, and neck.
Face Masks
Before COVID-19, a face mask with a camera design might’ve been a really strange gift to give. Now, it’s just another way of saying, “I care about you.”
Buttons
A well-chosen button can be an excellent stocking stuffer, white elephant gift, or decorative touch on a larger present (like a camera). Bonus: they look good on camera bags.
Socks
Colorful socks have become fashionable in recent years, especially for men. Why not combine this trend with your love of photography with camera-print socks.
Necklaces
Camera-themed necklaces can be fancy, inspirational, funny, or kitsch, just depending on what necklace you choose. That’s why it’s best to get a necklace for a photographer you know well, like a spouse (or yourself).
Earrings
Camera-themed earrings can also be hard to choose, mainly because there are so many nice options. Most are fairly inexpensive, though, so you can always get a couple pairs when in doubt.
Cufflinks
Camera-themed cufflinks are a subtle, classy way of showing off your hobby. It’s an especially appropriate gift for a photographer who likes to dress nicely or who goes clubbing regularly to photograph night life.
Fun Lens Cap Holder
Now, your camera can look fashionable, too.
Photographer’s Gloves
These gloves by Igloos keep your hands warm when you go out shooting on a cold day. In case you haven’t already cut the fingertips off of all your other gloves…
Office Space
If you’re slogging away in a cubicle by day, doing something that’s not photography, it can be refreshing to have reminders around you of your real passion. Here are a few desk supplies to lighten up the office atmosphere.
Upcycled Metal Photographer Sculpture
This photographer sculpture can add art to an otherwise dull office desk. Created by a Mexican artisan, Armando Ramirez, each sculpture is made from an assortment of recycled metal and automobile parts.
Because of this, no two sculptures are exactly the same. They’re handcrafted artworks, not mass-produced products from a factory.
Pen & Pencil Holder
This faux camera is probably a better choice for pens than a mug from the office kitchen.
Digital Picture Frame
With this digital picture frame, you can easily show your colleagues and clients all your latest photos. It eliminates the awkwardness of passing around your smartphone, and the larger size and higher resolution will make your shots look better.
Business Card Holder
This business card holder is ideal for a photographer who’s just started a business, or who you think should start a business.
Paper Clips
A small, unique way to keep in mind what you’re going to do this weekend.
28 Exciting & Unique Gifts for Photographers (Arranged by Budget)
This guide to the best gifts for photographers has been handpicked by me – a professional photographer and gear reviewer who loves gadgets!
Whatever gift you choose, I guarantee that the photography lover in your life will be over the moon.
I’ve reviewed all the products mentioned here, and you can trust my recommendations. – I even own most of them.
All the photographer gifts have been arranged in order of price so you can stick to your budget.
Just make sure you bookmark this article for Birthday or Christmas gift ideas for the photographer who has everything!
Now, let’s take a closer look – you’re about to make someone very happy indeed…
Table of Contents
The Best Gifts for Photographers (Under $50)
Need a quick stocking filler? Here’s a good place to start for some photography gear gift ideas that won’t break the bank.
1. Everything a photographer needs to clean their camera lens, viewfinder, and filtersCheck current price
This is one of those unique photographer gift ideas that’s guaranteed to amaze the recipient.
Why? Well, it’s one of those essential gadgets that most photographers don’t even know about.
I was thankful for my LensPen when I got back from shooting in Iceland, and my camera and lenses were covered in dust.
It’s an essential accessory for any photographer who shoots outdoors.
There’s a retractable brush to remove any particles, and at the other end, a handy cleaning tip for wiping the lens surface.
The kit features three different sizes of LensPen, which means you can keep one in every camera bag you own.
2. A flexible mini tripod for photographers and filmmakers that can wrap around thingsCheck current price
Grip it, wrap it or stand it – the GorillaPod is the much-imitated-but-never-beaten flexible tripod with wrappable legs that allow you to secure your camera equipment in more places.
This particular model features a precise 360-degree panning head with a 90-degree tilt and a bubble level for optimal positioning and control.
You can mount cameras, lights, mics, monitors etc, all the way up to 3kg – it’s even strong enough for large DSLRs or video lights.
The base plate, which attaches to the ball head, is robust and strong and doesn’t require a tool to add or remove it – you can see the twist lock in the image above.
If there’s a budding photographer or YouTuber in your life, trust me – this is one of those camera gifts that will prove useful for years to come.
- More of the best GorillaPods
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Photographer gifts needn’t be pricey to be really useful or interesting – case in point, this paperback book that currently retails for only $10.50!
‘Read this if you want to take great photographs’ is a bestselling book for photographers, and it’s easy to see why.
It features the top photography tips from 50 famous photographers, condensed in an entertaining read that’s a real page-turner.
Whether you’re buying a gift for an amateur or professional photographer, they’ll definitely find something useful or inspiring that they can apply to their art.
You can also get it for the Kindle, although I recommend the paperback version since you’ll want to see the iconic photos in all their glory.
I also recommend getting the other two books in this series that teach how to take great photos of people and places – you can get all three here for under $40 in total!
- More of the best photography books
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The reason it’s so hard to buy original gifts for photographers is that, usually, they’ve already bought their cameras, lenses, and accessories.
However, it’s safe to say that they may not have already got themselves the PhotoStick backup flash drive.
Every photographer needs an easy way to back up their photography, and it doesn’t come much easier than this.
Just plug the PhotoStick into a USB port, then load the application to scan the computer’s hard drive (or external hard drive) to find and back up all the photos.
You can choose what format images to save and even select movie files – the simple interface makes it easy to set up, making these little gadgets perfect gifts for the older generation or the non-tech savvy.
It’s also an excellent gift for a photographer who’s tired of paying monthly for online photo backup, whether that’s with iCloud or Lightroom.
In our review of the Photostick, we found it a cinch to use, and at this price, it really is a steal.
5. A funny t-shirt that’s guaranteed to make fellow photographers smileCheck current price
Out of all the best gifts for photographers of the year, this is one that’s guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.
You can get lost in all the funny t-shirts for photographers on Etsy and Amazon, but here’s the one I recommend above all the others.
“I admit it – I frame people, shoot them, then hang them on the wall… and sometimes I even cut off their heads.”
Photographer or not, whoever reads that slogan will have a few questions for the wearer – it’s a real conversation starter.
Available in every colour of the rainbow and sizes to suit all body shapes.
- More funny t-shirts for photographers
A versatile mini tripod for your phone or camera when packing light is essentialCheck current price
A lot of photography equipment is bulky and ugly, but not the Manfrotto PIXI Mini.
For a table-top tripod, photographers can’t beat it for elegance or simplicity.
Designed for use with compact camera systems (phones, point-and-shoots, and lightweight mirrorless cameras), the Manfrotto PIXI Mini sets up quickly, is intuitive to use, and holds your camera or phone securely.
It’s a joy to handle, thanks to its smooth contours that fit the shape of your hand perfectly – some photographers choose it over a Gorillapod because it feels better to handhold while collapsed.
The ball-head adjusts through the use of a red push-button that lets you position it in one simple movement and then holds the camera steady as a rock once you take your finger off.
Best of all, it’s less than $30 – a fantastic deal and a thoughtful photography gift for a photographer friend who uses a small camera.
- More of the best tabletop (mini) tripods
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Most photographers are already using Adobe Lightroom since it’s an industry-standard (and my pick as the best all-round photo editor).
However, if you’re buying a gift for a photographer who’s just getting started, a subscription to Lightroom will, without a doubt, be the most useful and thoughtful thing you could get them.
(Note that this is an ongoing monthly subscription, so most appropriate for parents buying gifts for photographer children, spouses, etc.)
I use Lightroom every single day for both personal and professional photography, and I absolutely love it. Most users say the same thing.
Lightroom is simply the best way to edit, organise and share your photos using a phone, tablet, or computer (Mac or PC).
It automatically backs everything up online and even includes Adobe Photoshop in the subscription cost.
- More of the best photo editing software
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Putting an LED light on the top of a camera is a great way to illuminate a photo or video shoot.
The Neewer 160 is my pick of affordable on-camera video lights and is one of those camera gifts I wish someone had told me about long ago.
It features 60 LED lights that can be adjusted based on colour temperature and power, providing soft or hard light to match the scene.
The battery lasts surprisingly long for such a lightweight unit, and everything balances nicely on the top of any camera with a hot shoe (all modern cameras have one.)
Best of all is the price – for under $30, you really can’t go wrong, and it even includes a couple of colour diffusion filters.
- More of the best on-camera lights
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GoPros are expensive action cameras that can do almost everything… except float!
That’s right – even the latest GoPro 11, which is waterproof to 33 feet, will sink to the bottom of the ocean if you drop it.
The Handler is the official floating hand grip for the GoPro, so you can shoot in and around the water worry-free.
On a recent family holiday to Fiji, my father-in-law had one attached to his GoPro for the whole time – it actually makes using the GoPro much more comfortable.
It’s an essential accessory for any GoPro owner, and it also makes a great Christmas gift for photographers or filmmakers.
More Great Gifts for Photography Lovers (Between $50-$100)
This is the sweet spot when gift buying, in my opinion – you can get some really amazing gadgets that can enhance the experience of taking photos.
10. The smartest way to carry your camera you never knew aboutCheck current price
The Peak Design Capture Clip is one of the best gifts for photographers who like to travel wearing a bag of some sort.
The Capture Clip attaches to the various straps found on camera backpacks, shoulder bags, or even just a belt and holds a camera securely until you need it.
From there, it’s just a one-handed quick-release button press to get your camera up and shooting!
The Capture Clip attaches securely to your bag or belt and stays out of your way until needed. Unlike camera straps, it keeps the camera rigidly stable, so it’s not flopping around when you walk.
It holds over 200 lbs, which means it can carry even the heaviest of camera + lens combinations for any kind of photography.
It weighs next to nothing, so it can be attached to a bag permanently and forgotten about. If you have the budget, I’d recommend getting a couple to attach to your favourite bags.
- Our review of the Peak Design Capture Clip
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Gifts don’t always need to be physical products – Luminar Neo is an award-winning photo editing software by Skylum.
It comes with a photo organizer, filters powered by AI, and a number of great presets (called “Looks”), all in an easy-to-learn interface.
Suitable for pros, amateurs, and even newbies, Luminar Neo features one-click editing solutions (powered by AI) that do magical things to your photos. It makes a normally tedious task a lot of fun.
I met the Skylum team earlier this year and can vouch for their authenticity and passion for creating a truly revolutionary AI-powered editing app.
They also have a lot in store for the future, with regular upgrades and support for new cameras and lenses.
A key advantage of Luminar over Lightroom is that you buy the software outright – there’s no subscription, making it an economical gift for a photographer who has everything.
- My review of Luminar Neo
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Any owner of a smartphone, photographer or not, would love to receive one of these ingenious accessories.
Comprising various mounts for iPhone and Android phones, Mobile by Peak Design revolves around a protective phone case.
On the back, a ‘SlimLink’ connector allows you to mount or release the phone onto various adaptors quickly and easily, all with just one hand.
There’s a Mobile Photographer Tripod, wireless charging stand, Creator Photographer Kit, Kickstand Wallet, and various other accessories that all interact perfectly with the phone case.
(I regularly use the bike mount for cycling, the wireless car mount and the charging stand.)
You’ll probably end up buying the various Mobile products as a gift to your photographer friends and to yourself too!
- My review of Mobile by Peak Design
Tommy Williams for Shotkit
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All photographers need a good camera strap, and this one is the best of the lot.
The Peak Design Slide Cross Body Camera Strap is a gift that any photographer can put to immediate use.
Not only can it be worn as a sling, shoulder, or neck strap, but it’s also super quick to adjust while wearing it.
Hugely popular among both professional and amateur photographers, the Slide Strap comes with Peak Design’s popular Anchor Link system, which allows for quick attachment and release.
For tripod users, the connection plate works with all ARCA-type tripod heads, saving the hassle of having to unscrew it.
Comfort-wise, the Slide gives you two options: grippy on one side and smooth on the other. The smooth, seamless side is especially pleasant on the skin compared to other camera straps.
The Slide comes in grey with brown accents or black with red accents – either would make an ideal gift for photographers who need a new way to carry their camera.
Read more about it in our in-depth Peak Design Slide Strap review.
- More of the best camera straps
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If you’re looking for a gift for a photographer who loves mobile photography, this is a unique present that will help them get the most out of the iPhone camera.
The iPhone Photo Academy provides over 10 hours of instruction on how to get the best out of your iPhone and see the world through the eyes of a great photographer.
It’s a high-quality and enjoyable video course and makes a useful gift for someone who wants to improve their iPhone photo skills.
It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, a lively Facebook group, and copious online support.
Whether they’re an avid smartphone photographer or not, the iPhone Photo Academy is a perfect way to make the most out of that powerful camera in your pocket.
- My review of the iPhone Photo Academy
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The SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive is a smart little ‘dongle’ that attaches to a smartphone or tablet, acting as an external drive.
When plugged in, you can move content between your iPhone, iPad and USB Type-0C devices, including Android phones.
This allows you to back up your phone photos and videos, saving you money in the long run (since you won’t need to buy another phone when your memory is full).
Available in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB, choose the one that matches the size of the phone you want to backup.
- More of the best accessories for the iPhone camera
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Wotancraft is a boutique camera bag manufacturer located in Taiwan – the kind of cult brand that only a true photographer may know
I’ve reviewed most of their bags on Shotkit, and every single one is unique, high quality, durable and great looking.
There are tons of bags for photographers on the market, but in my opinion, Wotancraft is the most original.
Each one is hand-crafted to perfection – a rugged, fashionable and functional carrying accessory that’s sure to attract compliments.
Wotancraft bags are premium priced, but the Pilot Travel Camera Sling Bag is a sweet spot in their range and great value for money.
I use mine to carry a camera and lens or take out the padded divider to use it as an everyday shoulder bag.
More Photographer Gift Ideas (Between $100~200)
If you want to know what to get a photographer for Christmas and you have a decent budget, here’s a good place to start.
17. A small camera backpack in 11 unique colours for photoshoots and everyday useCheck current price
While we’re talking about great-looking camera bags, the Jumper by Brevite should definitely be on your Christmas present list.
The Jumper is an award-winning small camera backpack that is available in a range of attractive colours not normally seen in the camera gear world.
Available in regular or large sizes, the Jumper looks great on both male and female photographers. It has a luxurious fabric feel, while being hard-wearing and durable.
You can configure the five internal padded dividers or remove everything to make it a perfect everyday backpack.
It’s great value for money and even includes two tripod carry straps on the bottom, which could also carry a yoga mat or towel.
- More of the best camera backpacks
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Don’t underestimate the tiny size of this Wamvo Mini Projector.
It’s capable of projecting 1080p video onto your wall and is compatible with a wide range of smartphones, tablets and devices.
Affordable and compact, the Wamvo is a fun gadget that’s a no-brainer for summer camping trips and vacations where you need nighttime entertainment.
All you need is a USB-C to HDMI adapter cable to make the connection – the further away you move from the wall, the bigger the projection.
You can also run it off a battery pack, which can be useful for those times when you can’t get to power but still want to show off your latest holiday slideshow.
19.
The world’s smallest wireless mic makes high-quality audio recordings a cinchCheck current price
If you’re trying to buy a gift for a budding photographer or filmmaker, the Rode Wireless GO II is the perfect audio-recording accessory.
You attach one of the devices to a camera or phone with the included wires, while the other end can be clipped onto your subject’s shirt.
(You can also hide it away and use a lavalier mic for an even stealthier set-up.)
Then, you simply start recording to capture all the audio from up to 200m away!
Even if you know nothing about the complex intricacies of recording audio, this handy gadget makes it simple and fun.
- More of the best action camera microphone attachments
Greg Cromie for Shotkit
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The Peak Design Sling is my favourite camera sling bag and a great gift for a photographer who needs quick access to their gear.
Affordable, weather-resistant, customisable and lightweight, it’s a fun and convenient way for photographers to carry camera gear and/or personal items.
It also comes with a lifetime warranty on any manufacturing defects – I’ve found Peak Design to be very generous in terms of their warranty.
Camera bags make great gifts for photographers, and the padded divider can be removed completely to make the Sling a great everyday carry bag.
There are three sizes: 3L, 6L, and 10L – I recommend the 6L Peak Design Sling (pictured above and here in the review) as the perfect size for a camera, two lenses, and your other small everyday-carry gadgets.
Available in 3 attractive colours, most people love the uber-cool all-black option with zero (visible) branding.
If you have a photographer pal who’s never used a camera sling bag before, prepare to make them very happy indeed!
- More of the best camera sling bags
Tommy Williams for Shotkit
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Most photographers have vast amounts of data to store, and sometimes, they need that data to be portable.
That’s what makes the Sandisk Extreme SSD a thoughtful gift for a photographer or filmmaker and something I’d love to find at the bottom of my Christmas stocking!
It’s palm-sized, light, and fits in your pocket. At the same time, it holds up to 2TB! That’s a lot of files on such a tiny drive.
The Sandisk Extreme SSD is also blazing fast, with read/write speeds up to 550MB/s.
You can even edit 4K footage straight off the drive with no lag at all, which is pretty impressive, considering its price.
So if you know any photographers who need lightning-quick performance in a solid-state hard drive no bigger than a business card, you can’t go wrong with this.
Compatible with PC & Mac – see the full review here.
22. High-quality lenses that expand the possibilities of the smartphone cameraCheck current price
Pretty much everyone owns a smartphone these days, which is why the Selvim Phone Camera Lens Kit is such a great gift for a photographer.
Designed for both enthusiasts and professionals alike, the kit includes a 22X telephoto lens, 235° fisheye lens, HD 0.62X super wide angle lens & 25X macro lens.
Selvin also includes a flexible clamp, phone clip, upgraded metal tripod, an eyecup, cleaning cloth and storage case too.
Basically, you get everything any photographer could possibly wish for to expand the capabilities of their phone’s existing camera.
The lenses clip neatly onto the back of the phone, although you will get some confused looks when shooting with the telephoto lens!
- More of the best tripods and stands for the iPhone
Best Gift for Photographers for $200+
Gifts for camera lovers who have everything are often pricey, but these products will make any photographer your new best friend…. or happiest spouse/lover ever!
23. The world’s most compact 3-in-1 travel tripod (with a truly unique feature)Check current price
The HEIPI 3-in-1 travel tripod features a 3-legged mini tripod which sits neatly inside the main outer tripod.
This ‘subtripod’ makes it 3x as stable when extended when compared to a regular single centre column, as found on all other tripods.
You can remove the subtripod altogether, giving you two tripods for the price of one!
The legs of the main tripod are carbon fiber to keep the weight down and the strength up.
This is one of those gifts for photographers that will last a lifetime and help capture many dozens of great landscape shots.
- More of the best tripods for travel
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Most photographers use digital cameras to take photos that will never be printed… and that’s a bit sad :(
The Instax SP-3 is a portable photo printer that can be used anywhere to print out physical photos in a nostalgic Polaroid-like format.
All you need is a smartphone, tablet or camera with wireless transfer capabilities (most modern cameras have this).
Portable printers really make ideal gifts for photographers who have everything.
The Instax SP-3 also allows you to print directly from your Instagram, Flickr, Facebook, Google Photos, and Dropbox accounts right on the spot.
Size-wise, at just 6″x6″, the Instax SP-3 is also nicely portable. Just stick it in your bag or purse, and you’re good to go.
Perfect for events, travel, or parties, it’s lovely to have a physical reminder of a moment rather than just a photo stuck on a phone.
- More of the best portable photo printers
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Got a bit more budget for buying gifts this year? Trust me – all photographers secretly want a drone!
The DJI Mavic Mini is ultra-portable, easy to fly, and comes with a high-quality camera lens, perfect for aerial photography.
The flight time is 30 minutes, which is more than enough to get some great footage, especially in Sports Mode, which allows it to fly up to 13m/s!
Memory cards slot into the back and everything can be charged with a micro-USD cable.
In my Mavic Mini review, I was amazed at just how tiny it is – 5.51 x 3.22 x 2.24 inches (140 × 82 × 57 mm). You can even fit it into a jacket pocket!
Sure, there are newer models of Mavic Mini available, but they’re also more expensive and pack in plenty of features that aren’t necessary for the average photographer.
The only problem is finding the original Mavic Mini still in stock, as it’s so much cheaper than the other DJI camera drones – check here.
26. A digital picture frame with unlimited free storage (so realistic you’ll think it’s a regular photo)Check current price
Photographers should display their photographs, and nothing makes this easier than a digital picture frame.
Aura has produced a wonderfully minimal and well-designed frame called the Mason, and I’m in love with it.
(So too is Oprah Winfrey, who named it one of her favourite gifts of the year!)
The Mason looks and feels like a real picture frame, except that it has the added ability to store and display an unlimited number of your favourite photographs.
The simple-to-use Aura smartphone app controls everything, and if you choose to gift the frame to a photographer friend, you can even set it up to display a selection of pre-loaded images as soon as they plug it in!
Photographers will love how crisp images look on the screen in 1600 x 1200 HD resolution, with its brightness automatically when the ambient light in your room changes.
It’s a particularly good gift for a grandparent – you can do what I do and send regular photo updates direct to the frame from thousands of miles away.
- More of the best digital photo frames
Tommy Williams for Shotkit
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I’ve reviewed over 100 backpacks for photographers, and this is the one that I recommend time and time again.
The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is available in 20 or 30L and is simply the best way to carry camera gear and/or your everyday essentials.
(If you need it for short trips, I’d recommend the larger 30L size, although both versions can actually expand to fit more in the top.)
The removable/customisable Flexfold dividers are an ingenious way to organise your camera gear in an origami-like way – see the photo above.
It’s certainly an investment as a gift for a photographer or YouTuber, but it’s backed up with a lifetime warranty which helps justify the price tag.
- Our review of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2
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If you’ve made it through this list of the best photography gift ideas and you’re still looking for something that will blow your recipient away, here it is.
The Leica Q2 is crazy expensive, but it’s also one of a kind, and the ultimate gift for a photography lover if you have the budget.
Perhaps it could be a generous anniversary present for your spouse or a splurge gift for a photographer boyfriend?!
Whatever the case, the Leica Q2 is truly the Rolls Royce of compact cameras.
Its 47.3MP full-frame sensor produces JPEG images that are so good I never feel the need to shoot in RAW.
It looks and feels so great that you’ll never want to put it down… although it looks oh so pretty just sitting on a mantelpiece!
This is the camera I use for all my personal photography (pictures of my family and travels), as it’s such a joy to use.
Yes, you may have to sell an organ to afford it, but trust me – it’s worth every penny.
Buying Gifts for Photographers – FAQs
- What should I buy a photographer who loves street photography?
A ‘FRAMES’ magazine subscription is an original choice. Photographers love magazines, and this is one of the best – get it here.
- What should I buy photographers who want to choose photography gear themselves?
Memory cards or a camera cleaning kit are great gift ideas since all photographers need them.
- What are some good cheap gift ideas for the photographer who has everything?
A new camera strap is one option since every photographer needs more than one.
Camera neck straps make great gifts and can be found affordably.
A microfiber cleaning cloth is cheap too, and an essential tool to keep a camera lens clean, mainly if you don’t use a lens cap. it can also be used with a phone camera.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed these unique gift ideas for photographers.
There are SO many amazing products for photographers on the market here in 2022, but stick to this selection to avoid decision-making overload!
Whether you’re buying for a beginner photographer, hobbyist, or even a professional photographer, there’s something here for everyone.
Leave us a comment if you have any specific questions about any of the fun photo gifts listed above.
The best gifts for a photographer for the New Year
Photography, both professional and amateur, is very popular all over the world. Digital technology allows people of any age to do this interesting business without any problems, so almost every family has a camera that allows you to capture various interesting moments.
A home photographer compiles family albums and posts his photos on social networks. With the New Year approaching, relatives are planning to give the family photographer some nice and useful gift. Long before the holiday, the question of what to give the photographer for the New Year begins to bother his family and friends. nine0003
- What not to give to a photographer
- Useful gifts for the photographer for the New Year
- Souvenirs
- Useful literature
- tripod
- Accumulators
- Accessories
- Graphic tablet
What not to give to a photographer
Choosing a gift for a holiday is not an easy task. The New Year is probably the most favorite holiday among Russians, so everyone takes the purchase of a New Year's gift very seriously. It is especially difficult to buy a present for a fan of some serious business. It is not easy to choose a gift for a car enthusiast, fisherman, hunter and photographer.
The fact is that they already have a basic set of necessary things. You don’t want to give a useless thing, and if you ask about a gift, you won’t get a surprise. The recipient already has a camera, and it can be very good. Many people think about buying another camera, but there is no point in buying a cheap low-end camera. The photographer, of course, will say thank you, but the present for the New Year will lie in the closet idle or quietly presented to someone else. nine0003
Not everyone can afford to buy an expensive high-end camera, so this topic is no longer relevant. For good cameras, a lens is a necessary accessory, so every photographer wants to receive optics as a gift and, of course, from branded manufacturers. Such lenses may cost more than a camera, in addition, the technical characteristics of the product may not be known to the donor, and an expensive present may well turn out to be useless. The main working tool of the photographer is the camera, so he prefers to purchase the most important accessories for it on his own.
Therefore, you should not buy flashes or filters for the lens. These accessories have their own technical characteristics and there is a very high chance to buy something that is not needed at all or that does not correspond to the parameters of photographic equipment. It is best to give things that can be useful to anyone, regardless of the brand of camera or lens. nine0003
Useful gifts for a photographer for the New Year
Most people think that a photographer needs only a camera and is completely ready for work. Actually it is not. The camera needs a lot of different useful accessories, each of which can be a worthy gift for the New Year. If you look at the list of useful gifts for a photographer, it will be quite large:
- Photo souvenirs;
- Special literature;
- Tripod; nine0006
- Storage media;
- Photo unloading;
- Special backpack;
- Graphics tablet.
Souvenir products
A huge number of souvenir products are produced for gifts for amateur photographers.
Such things have nothing to do with photographic technology, however, as a New Year's gift, they can please both a professional photographer and a novice amateur. These are mugs, pillows, smartphone stickers and other harmless crafts. Mugs are usually made in the form of a cool lens with all the necessary inscriptions and “adjustments”. When such a thing is on the table, it is difficult to distinguish it from a real lens. Sofa cushions in the form of the flagship models of Nikon or Canon will appeal to any photographer. If desired, you can find pillows with vintage Leica and Rolleiflex models. On a modern smartphone, you can stick a thin plastic film with the image of a rare camera from the 30s-50s. The film coating itself is very stable, and such a present looks very cool. nine0003
Useful literature
No matter how experienced a photographer is, he will definitely be happy with an interesting or useful book. You can give photo albums with the works of talented artists. An excellent gift for the New Year will be the albums of such masters as Irving Penn, Mark Riboud and Richard Avedon.
Finding such a gift will not be easy, since photo albums do not often appear on store shelves. For the New Year, you can give various educational materials on shooting techniques or composition. Such a present will be useful for a beginner amateur photographer. A professional can be presented with a serious book on photography, where you can find a detailed analysis of the most interesting works. Any photographer must have a photo editor installed on their computer, since digital photography allows you to independently eliminate errors and flaws made during shooting. The best and most versatile is undoubtedly Photoshop. Beginning amateur photographers use only its most simple functions. It will be very useful for a professional to know everything that this editor can do. A complete and detailed description of all the features of CS5, CS6 or CC is a thick volume with many illustrations. nine0003
Tripod
A good and successful gift for a photographer for the New Year is a tripod.
It is not necessary to purchase a solid tripod. You can give a small tripod that can be used in any conditions. The Manfrotto desktop model with ball joint is suitable for home photography. If the photographer works a lot in nature, he will need a tripod, the legs of which are made in the form of separate spherical segments. Such a design can be installed in any position and fix the camera on a tree branch, railing, and generally anywhere. nine0003
Storage media
The digital camera is not limited by the number of shots on film and can take hundreds of photographs. To store them, solid state drives or memory cards are used. They come in different capacities from 2 to 128 GB. When a photographer shoots in RAW, the pictures take up a lot of space and the card has to be replaced with a new one. An inexpensive but necessary gift would be a good memory card with a large capacity. In the process, a huge number of photographs are accumulated. An external drive is suitable for storing a large photo archive.
These can be devices like Sun Disk, WD, Synology NAS, or Netgear Stora MS2000. The last device is a home server for storing information. You can put two 1TB hard drives in it. They can store a huge amount of photos, and the most interesting and unique shots can be duplicated. Those who travel a lot and take pictures will definitely like this New Year's gift. nine0003
Accessories
A good New Year's gift for a photographer can be various accessories designed to carry photographic equipment. The BlaskRapid RS DR-1 Double Strap allows you to carry two cameras with lenses, which, given the weight of photographic equipment, is very convenient. The "harness" is put on the shoulders, while the cameras are connected by special straps, which eases the load on the back. If the gifted person works with one camera, then the second half of the unloading can be disconnected. The shoulder strap is wide with soft padding. nine0003
As a useful gift for a photographer for the New Year, you can choose a special bag for the camera and accessories or a backpack.
The Think Tank Digital Holster 10/20 is designed to carry standard SLR cameras with a lens attached and a solar hood. The pockets hold spare memory cards, a charged power supply and filters. The bags are available in two different sizes. In the bag, along with the camera, you can carry two interchangeable small lenses. If the recipient travels a lot, then it is better to purchase a photo backpack. It sits behind your back, leaving your hands free and more spacious than a bag. nine0003
Graphic tablet
A professional photographer who takes a lot of pictures has to use the services of a photo editor. The most convenient tool for editing pictures is a graphics tablet. Such a gift for the New Year will please any master of artistic photography. Buying the most expensive device is probably not worth it, but you can buy a very decent tablet even in a low price category. Inexpensive models that allow you to retouch photos using Photoshop tools include One by Wacom and Intuos. nine0003
All gifts for the New Year can be divided into two categories. These are nice little things and serious things. If the present is intended for a colleague, then it is quite possible to get by with an inexpensive souvenir. A gift for a family member should be more meaningful. If nothing works out with the choice, then the easiest way is to give the photographer a gift certificate for the New Year, according to which he will choose what he really needs in the photo equipment store.
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