Photography gear can be confusing, and if you try to learn as much as you can before jumping on Amazon, you can easily find yourself lost in a sea of lens kits, lights, cameras, and tripods.
Worry not, I listed the top 20 gifts for photographers for these holidays. These are all well-rounded options that any photographer will appreciate and use all year long.
Note: I also made sure that these are the best offers on gifts for photographers
Without further ado, let’s jump into the list.
15 Can’t-Miss Gifts for Photographers in 2020
I considered three things while picking the items on this list:
- Practicality
- Cost for value
- Durability
Every gift idea on this list is made for lasting many years, helping your photographer friend with their work, and being easy to use.
Are you in a hurry? Here are the entire list and prices:
1. AmazonBasics Camera Bag
Light, durable, weather-resistant, and compact camera bag for on the go photographers.
2. Endurax Camera Backpack
Camera bag with hardshell protection for photographers that need to carry a lot of gear.
3. Nomatic 30L Travel Bag
Travel bag for 3 to 5 days trips with customizable compartments and waterproof laptop and iPad sleeve.
4. YoTilon Camera Tripod
High-quality tripod for professional photoshoots.
5. SanDisk 256 GB Extreme PRO
High-speed memory card compatible with all types of cameras.
6. Seagate Backup Plus 5TB
High-performing external hard drive for extra storage and photo editing.
7. LimoStudio Lighting Kit
Portable lighting kit for professional in-studio style photoshoots.
8. Falcon Eye F7 LED Light
12w RGB LED Mini pocket-size light with a built-in battery.
9. Polaroid Originals OneStep
Point and shoot retro-designed polaroid camera.
10. Tarion Vintage Camera Strap
Vintage camera strap with leather details and adjustable length.
11. PolarPro 77mm Variable ND Filter
77mm Variable ND Filter with 6 to 9 stops – Peter McKinnon edition.
12. The Digital Photography Book
The perfect book for beginners wanting to learn the basics of photography.
13. Hydro Flask Water Bottle
Stainless steel flask that conserves the temperatures of water and other drinks. Great for on the go shoots and keep hydrated.
14. 1938 Graflex Speed Graphic Camera Patent Drawing
Stylish t-shirt with an original hand-drawn design.
15. The Photographer’s Playbook: 307 Assignments and Ideas
It is a book filled with assignments, challenges, and tips for photographers who want to improve their skills or have fun with the camera.
16. UBeesize Phone Tripod
Portable and flexible Tripod with a wireless remote and universal clip for mobile phones.
17. Kodak FunSaver 35mm Single Use Camera
A single-use camera that features a 35 mm film type format. Great for family reunions or situations that can harm a photographer’s primary camera.
18. Kodak Kodacolor Gold 400 GC Color Negative Film
35mm sized film roll featuring a 400 iso roll with 400 film speed and awe-inspiring saturation levels.
19. A&M Film and Photo Photography Prism
Professional-grade optical glass to capture amazing pictures. It comes with a PDF guide and a microfiber cleaning bag.
20. National Geographic Photo Basics
The book explains Sartore’s – national geographic photographer and founder of Photo Ark – secret to taking amazing pictures.
21. Digital SLR Camera Pin (BONUS!)
It’s a pin in the form of an SLR camera! No way your fellow photographer won’t like it.
Disclaimer: some of these items are affiliate links so I might earn a commission if you buy some of these products. Still, I’m only listing products I or my colleagues have used in our professional careers.
1. AmazonBasics Compact Camera Shoulder Bag
First on our list is the AmazonBasics camera bag. It is light, durable, and compact. Perfect for photographers looking for portability.
The bag has a waterproof cover, necessary when shooting outside. The padding on the sides let you carry a small tripod and a water bottle.
Inside, the AmazonBasics has three compartments with six mesh pockets to keep all your gear protected and organized.
The durable exterior is made using a melange fabric and reinforced to make sure it doesn’t slide or brake, preventing accidental drops while having enough protection to avoid damage.
The bag is big enough to carry a DSLR camera, a couple of lenses (maybe three), and small accessories like a flash, changers, memory cards, and your phone.
Features and Benefits:
- Waterproof rain cover to protect your camera.
- Padding on the sides for your water bottle or tripod.
- 3 Primary compartments with removable dividers inside for customization and organization.
- Can carry all the essentials for outdoor shoots while still being portable.
2. Endurax Camera Backpack
If your loved one is a little more hardcore or needs to take more gear for his/her shoots, then the Endurax camera backpack is a great fit.
It is waterproof and can carry a camera with a lens attached, five additional lenses (up to 5 lenses), multiple memory cards, one or two external flashes, and a 14″ laptop if you need to edit on the go.
All its interior is fully customizable thanks to removable dividers. There are also smaller pockets for those little accessories and components that can get easily lost.
For extra protection, the Endurax camera backpack comes with hardshell protection. Keeping your gear secure if it falls or gets dropped.
Features and Benefits:
- Waterproof, even under heavy rain.
- Hardshell protection.
- Fully customizable dividers and extra pockets for smaller accessories.
- Strap for a tripod and zip to store your main SD card.
3. NOMATIC 30L Travel Bag
Although it is not directly for photographers, it is precisely what any creative professional needs to comfortable travel for work, photograph shoots, and fun.
The Nomatic 30L Travel Bag is perfect for short three to five days trips and has 24 features that’ll make the life of your friend that much easier.
What we liked the most is that it has everything you’d need to pack, keep organized, and access your belongings without the hustle. A wide range of creatives and nomadic freelancers use them for a reason.
Plus, it’s waterproof, durable, and pretty compact.
Features and Benefits:
- Patented strap design allows you to switch between duffle bag and backpack.
- Easy to organize with pockets explicitly designed for shoes, liquids, tech, and everything in-between.
- TSA ready laptop sleeve lays flat, so you can leave your laptop in the bag when passing through airport security.
- It includes detachable waist straps.
- It includes a laundry bag
4. YoTilon Camera Tripod
There’s no doubt that handheld shots are extraordinary. There are angles a photographer can only take when holding a camera.
However, there are times when a tripod can give extra stability, curves or make it easier to get the perfect photo.
The YoTilon is a lightweight (2.1lbs or 0.94kg) travel tripod, ideal for DSLR Cameras. But it’s compatible with every type of camera like SLR cameras, camcorders, mini projectors, digital cameras, and more.
It features a 360 degree SLR Ball with a quick release with a 1/4 screw. The height of the tripod is adjustable from 15.9 inches to 49 inches. It is easy and convenient to operate with one hand.
They can use the tripod’s center to hang additional items, but the recommended max loading is about 3-5 kg, so if you’re using a heavy filming camera, be cautious.
Note: if you’re looking for more flexible and portable tripods, here are our top 5 tripods for vlogging. You’ll definitely find the best for your photographer pal.
Features and Benefits:
- 360 degree SLR ball with quick release.
- Compatible with all types of cameras.
- Weights 2.1lbs or 0.94kg.
- Height range from 15.9inch to 49inch.
5. SanDisk 256 GB Extreme PRO
If you’ve read anything about photography, you know that storage is one of those “it’s never too much” kind of deal with photographers.
The Sandisk 256 GB extreme pro SD card has shot speeds of up to 90MB/s and a high transfer speed of up to 170MB/s – excellent for speeding up your friend’s workflow.
The memory card is perfect for high resolution 4K UHD video shooting and sequential burst mode photography. Apt for capturing uninterrupted video with the UHS Speed Class 3 and Video Speed Class 30. The extreme pro card provides a sustained video capture rate of 30MB/s.
It is temperature-proof, waterproof, shock-proof, and X-ray proof.
Features and Benefits:
- Temperature-proof, waterproof, shock-proof, and X-ray proof.
- Shot speeds of up to 90MB/s and transfer rate up to 170MB/s.
- Perfect for 4k video shooting.
6. Seagate Backup Plus 5TB External Hard Drive
Photographers need storage on the go and at the desk. The Seagate backup plus is a cost-efficient gift that will win you a special place in the photographer’s heaven.
With 5TB of storage and USB-3 compatibility, it is an excellent video and photo editing option. It is compatible with Mac and Windows to be a plug and use experience no matter your friend’s system.
High-performing external hard drives are an essential tool in any photographer’s arsenal.
Features and Benefits:
- 5TB storage and fast reading and writing speed.
- Sleek design and easy to use.
- Reliable software.
7. LimoStudio Portrait Studio Continuous Lighting Kit
Ask any photographer about the most critical element to shoot a fantastic photo, and I can guarantee that lighting is between the 3 most common answers.
Good lighting is hard to get, especially when, as photographers, we have no control over it.
The LimoStudio kit is portable and has everything a photographer needs to get the lighting perfect.
If you want to check more options, here’s our top lighting equipment for creators.
However, for a very affordable price (around $60 plus shipping), this kit comes with three light sources, easy to manage cables and a carrying bag for extra portability.
Features and Benefits:
- Give your photographer friend more control over lighting.
- It’s a fully portable lighting kit.
- You won’t need to buy anything extra to make it work.
Note: it is a good choice for portrait photography.
8. Falcon Eye F7 LED Light
Of course, not every photo shoot needs three umbrellas to work. Sometimes, a smaller tool can be perfect for the job.
The falcon eye f7 is a 12w RGB LED Mini pocket-size light with a built-in battery. It features an integrated aluminum alloy fuselage, 0-100 levels of dimming with each color – having 100 level saturation – and brightness to adjust.
At its maximum power, it can get to 4000 lux illumination. Its adjustable color temperature ranges between 2500-9000K, making it an invaluable accessory to carry around.
It is an excellent option for those that need less power but more customization and portability.
Features and Benefits:
- It is pocket-size for extra portability.
- Color adjustable.
- 12w of power with 4000 lux illumination.
- It is compatible with USB-C and fast charging.
- Battery life around 2hrs of continuous use.
9. Polaroid Originals OneStep
Photographers have professional cameras – at least most of the time – so why are we listing a camera?
Glad you ask! The Polaroid OneStep is not an ordinary camera. It is a OneStep polaroid, and it is gorgeous.
This high-quality camera is effortless to use with 60-day battery life, a powerful flash, and self-timer mode. It can be connected using Bluetooth or using the Android/iOS app on your mobile phone and features a standard manual control.
The OneStep has double exposure, light painting mode, and a satisfying noise trigger.
It also has easy to switch standard and portrait lenses to get different styles and moods. Portrait lens can take a photo between 1ft and 3ft. The standard lens takes photos between 3ft to infinity.
Note: if you’re looking for a more traditional camera that can also shoot high-quality videos, these are the best cameras for filmmaking.
Features and Benefits:
- Compatible with the I-type and 600 films.
- It has a standard and portrait lens.
- 60-day battery life.
- Absolute beautiful design.
- High image quality.
10. TARION Camera Shoulder Neck Strap Vintage Belt
No camera is ready to use without proper protection; enters camera straps.
However, most straps are not very stylish. That’s why we love the Tarion vintage belt.
The shoulder strap is made using very high-quality and durable cotton mixed with leather. Its peak design features a textured surface that prevents slipping – essential for long photo shoots.
Its length can be adjusted from both ends, which makes it easy to use for everybody. At its maximum height, the strap is 137cm and can carry up to 65gm.
Features and Benefits:
- Vintage design to look professional and with personality.
- Durable and breathable materials to secure the camera and preventing sweat.
- Adjustable from both ends to make it easy to use for all righties and lefties.
11. PolarPro 77mm Variable ND Filter (6 to 9 Stop) – Peter McKinnon Edition
An ND filter is part of any photographer’s arsenal… or they should be. Many beginners forget how the excess of lights can ruin an otherwise great photo and rely too much on post-production.
That’s why we’re adding the PolarPro ND filter to our gifts for photographers list.
A PolarPro ND filter can take your photographer friend’s game to the next level. If you’re looking for a practical and affordable gift, this is the perfect one, no questions asked.
Note: Right now they have amazing offers you can’t miss.
Features and Benefits:
- 77mm (6 to 9 stop) Variable ND filter.
- Fingerprint-free installation.
- Zero vignetting down to 16mm focal length.
12. The Digital Photography Book
The Digital Photography book is one of the best selling entry-level books on digital photography. It has been prevalent over the years and has been translated into numerous languages.
The step-wise guidance in the book enables an easy understanding of the elements of photography.
Scott Kelby, the author of the book, has shared a lot of his tricks to taking better photos.
It is a must-read for anyone that appreciates the art of photography. That’s why I consider this book a perfect choice for photographers.
Features and Benefits:
- It is a practical and insightful book.
- Excellent gift for beginners and mid-level professionals.
- Excellent piece for the library.
13. Hydro Flask Water Bottle
When we think of hydration, one of the last things we think of is photography. However, just like in any other profession, health is critical to success.
The Hydro Flask is the perfect go-to flask for water. It keeps temperature all day long, so whether they have a photoshoot in summer or winter, this flask will help them carry their beverage.
Because it is made of stainless steel, the Hydro Flask will last you for years. They can finally say goodbye to plastic bottles and be part of the eco-friendly movement.
Features and Benefits:
- Durable
- Eco-friendly
- TempShield system to preserve the temperature
- Perfect for increasing water consumption
14. 1938 Graflex Speed Graphic Camera Patent Drawing
The 1938 Graflex Speed graphic t-shirt was hand-drawn and silk-screened in Ann Arbor. It uses ring-spun thread using entirely USA made cotton.
The jersey-knit cotton feels very comfortable and durable.
The designs use QCM ink, which is some of the best in the industry, making it possible to last longer with no cracks or fading. These t-shirts are rated as chlorofluorocarbon and carcinogen-free.
Features and Benefits:
- Stylish
- Original hand-drawn design
- USA cotton and high-quality QCM ink
15. The Photographer’s Playbook: 307 Assignments and Ideas
The Photographer’s Playbook is by far the most experiential gift on this “gifts for photographers” list. It is full of assignment ideas to practices different photos, thoughts from top photographers from around the world, and cool anecdotes to help you improve your friend’s craft.
If you like photography, the book is full of activities you can share, compete, and enjoy playing with the camera.
Features and Benefits:
- Fun assignments for photographers
- Helpful tips and processes to improve
- Great to share with friends
Some Honorable Mentions
The next gifts for photographers on our list are some of the best budget gifts we recommend.
If you’re looking for affordable gifts that add a lot of value to your photographer friends, these are the best choices for you.
16. UBeesize Phone Tripod
The UBeesize Phone Tripod is a portable and flexible tripod with a wireless remote and universal clip.
This tripod mount is compatible with iPhone and Android, so no matter what system you prefer, you can use this tripod.
It features flexible legs that can quickly wrap around bicycles, poles, and branches. They can also use it as a selfie stick.
The UBeesiuze tripod stand is 10″ tall and weighs about 150gm. Your friend can tilt the rotational ball up to 90 ̐ easily, making it an excellent option for getting weird shots hustle-free.
There is a wireless remote control that allows photos and videos to be controlled from a distance of 30 feet.
If your friend is a phone photographer, then this is the best gift for him or her.
17. Kodak FunSaver 35mm Single Use Camera
The Kodak FunSaver is a single-use camera that features a 35 mm film type format. It is very light and small.
Its dimensions are 4.9 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches (LxWxH).
The Kodak FunSaver 35mm single-use camera can record videos at 2K Dci at 1080P resolution and uses a Macro type lens.
It is a fun little camera for fun shoots or to shoot in harsh environments where you don’t want to risk your primary camera.
If you’re looking for a cheap gift, you can’t go wrong.
18. Kodak Kodacolor Gold 400 GC Color Negative Film
The Kodak Kodacoolor Gold is a 35mm sized film roll. It features a 400 iso roll with 400 film speed and awe-inspiring saturation levels.
The Kodak Kodacolor Gold has 24 exposures per roll and contains one roll per package.
It measures 9x9x9 inches (LXWXH) and weighs 1.288 ounces – consideration for shipping.
The films are made especially for compact cameras like the Kodak FunSaver.
19. A&M Film and Photo Photography Prism
The A&M film and photography prism is a professional grade optical glass to capture amazing pictures.
The prism is made using specially formulated scratch-resistant materials. Each one is carefully inspected before shipment to ensure no imperfections and includes a “Tips for Taking Stunning Prisming Photos” PDF guide.
The 6” x 1” prism size yields the best pictures. They are large enough for ample refraction and reflection and small enough to fit in your pocket or camera bag easily.
The bag also includes a microfiber cleaning cloth and post-purchase support.
Note: I recommend this gift for an experienced photographer.
20. National Geographic Photo Basics
The book was written by Joel Sartore – a photographer from national geographic and the founder of the Photo Ark
The book explains Sartore’s secret to taking amazing pictures. He talks about various concepts such as framing the shots, editing photos, collecting photos, and archiving them.
The book applies to both phone and digital camera users.
Here are my favorite topics this book touches on:
- He talks about different types of cameras and how to choose them.
- Explain the basics of gear and accessories, exposure levels, lighting, focus, and composition.
- He applies the basic rules of photography to all different aspects.
I’m a massive fan of this book and think. It is a must-read for photography enthusiasts.
21. Digital SLR Camera Pin (BONUS!)
It’s a pin in the form of an SLR camera! It is just the perfect gift for any photographer out there.
Features and Benefits:
- It increases your awesomeness to level 10
How to Pick the Right Gift for a Photographer
I can guarantee that any of these gifts for photographers will make Christmas better for all creatives on your list. Yet, I know it can be hard to pick just one.
How do you decide the best fit for your favorite photographer? Here are five things to have in mind when choosing the right gift for photographers:
1. Choose Something They Don’t Have
Photographers invest a lot of their money into gear to help them make their work better and faster. Every help they can get on this is well appreciated.
If you don’t care too much about surprise, ask them directly about what gear they would like to have.
In any case, lighting tends to be an area most photographers lack, so that’s a road you could take.
2. Look for Practicality
Easy of use and general usefulness are essential.
As I said, photographers have a lot of gear, so a good idea is to give a few things that can help them organize themselves.
Camera bags and organizers are super helpful.
3. Give Something that Would Save Them Time
There are several ways a photographer can save time, but the easiest way is to cut unnecessary steps in their workflow.
Here are two ideas for it:
- During photo shoots, photographers might need to change SD cards, losing a few minutes of work and interrupting their flow. An excellent gift for this is an SD card with more storage like the SanDisk 256 GB Extreme PRO.
- Another problem related to storage is laptop storage. When files are too big, photographers have to take their files to external drives (or delete them) to make space. A great option is to give them an external hard drive with fast writing speed to edit directly from there.
4. Choose a Thoughtful Gift
Sometimes the best choice is to give something funny or memorable like a digital SLR camera pin or a t-shirt with a fantastic design.
If you want to give a beginner photographer something fun, the photographer’s playbook is the best option on this list.
They’ll get insightful tips and anecdotes to improve their craft, plus fun assignments to practice and enjoy themselves.
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