Wendy Gould is back to give us ideas on what to buy photographers for Christmas, spending less than $25! Wendy Rose Gould is a freelance writer who lives in Phoenix, Arizona. Her work has appeared on The Huffington Post, Yahoo! Shine, Mom.me, San Francisco Gate, Aol and many others. She’s also the author of the eBook:“Shoe Secrets Every Well-Heeled Wearer Should Know.”
So, you’re shopping for a photographer, eh? Those folks can be a tricky bunch to please. In most cases, they know exactly what they need and have a specific list of wants already sorted out. (And no, I’m not talking about extra sleep and a strong cup of coffee.) Below is a list of holiday gift ideas for photographers all priced under an easy $25. The majority of these gift ideas come from photographers themselves, so expect a happy photographer face come Christmas morning.
1.) Wide/Macro Lens for iPhone, $20
Carrying a weighty DSLR around when you’re off the job isn’t always desirable. You can still get fancy with your camera phone, though, thanks to Photojojo’s series of iPhone lenses. In addition to the wide/macro, they have a telephoto lens ($20) and fisheye lens ($20).
2.) Subscription to Popular Photography Magazine, $14
Popular Photography Magazine is one of the world’s leading photography magazines. It provides insight into the technical aspect of photography, reviews the hottest new products and showcases gorgeous photographs. One year (12 issues) is $14 while a two year subscription is $24.
3.) Camera Strap, $Prices Vary
A camera’s original strap is often sufficient, but it can also be uncomfortable — or less than pretty — compared to other options. A new camera strap makes a fabulous and thoughtful gift for your photographer. Browse Etsy for colorful designs priced under $25. The link will take you to a Rainbow Camera Strap ($24) from Etsy seller iMoShop.
4.) Coffee Gift Card, $25
Every photographer I’ve ever known stays up into the wee hours of the night in front of a glowing computer screen. A huge portion of a photographer’s work consists of culling and editing thousands of pictures, so the gift of caffeine will be much appreciated.
Ask any photographer and I can promise you she’s lost at least a few lens caps in her day. The Nice Clip attempts to remedy the “missing lens cap” problem. It’s a wee, lightweight clip that attaches to your lens cap so you can clip it to your camera strap, bag, shirt, hat or wherever is most convenient.
Okay, this one’s more fun and frivolous than it is pertinent to a photographer’s backpack. Still, what photographer wouldn’t be tickled over receiving a mug in the shape of a camera lens? This quirky drinking vessel looks just like a DSLR lens and is ideal for both hot and cold beverages.
7.) Memory Cards, $Prices Vary
A photographer can never have too many memory cards. In fact, the more, the merrier! Make sure you select a memory card that works with their brand and model of camera. Amazon is a great place to start shopping.
8.) Isotoner smarTouch Matrix Gloves, $19.49
Fingers are apt to get cold while shooting in the winter months, but touch-screen based technology isn’t receptive to most fabrics. The Isootoner smarTouch Matrix gloves help with that issue.
9.) GorillaMobile Tripod Mount for Phone, $19.95
A tripod is any photographer’s best friend. In the same way it comes in handy for DSLRs and point-and-shoots, a tripod for phones is a must-have. The GorillaMobile Tripod Mount is especially nice since it can be positioned around any surface.
10.) Collapsible Multi-Disc Light Reflector, $19.18
If your photographer is all about natural light and they don’t already have one, a reflector is a great piece of equipment to add to the list. This will help enhance everyday lighting and pop some extra light during shady lighting situations.
Check back next week for ideas under $50! 🙂