Photography Gift Guide: Fun Gear for the Holidays
Explore TechCrunch’s 2020 Holiday Gift Guide! Searching for the perfect presents? We’re dedicated to assisting you! Throughout November and December, we will be publishing a series of gift guides. Our complete collection of guides is available here.
Presently, professional and amateur photographers alike are facing unique challenges. Maintaining inspiration can be tough when daily routines become monotonous and the most distant destination is often one’s own home. Due to current circumstances, travel is limited, planned trips are being postponed, and many individuals are spending extended periods indoors.
Numerous aspects of life are particularly challenging at the moment, but supporting loved ones in discovering new interests and making plans for future experiences can provide a welcome diversion. For photographers struggling to find subjects, this represents an ideal opportunity to experiment with different approaches, acquire new equipment, and cultivate a renewed perspective.
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Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 Instant Film Camera
Surprisingly, this is an excellent moment to begin exploring instant photography. As someone who regularly uses a camera, I’ve found myself not reaching for my primary equipment recently, lacking a sense of motivation. However, taking a simple instant camera with me on walks, weather permitting, has proven to be a calming practice, allowing me to notice and value the loveliness of everyday details that I would normally overlook. This Fujifilm Instax model produces larger, square-format pictures, which also present well on platforms like Instagram for those who enjoy sharing their images online.
Alternatively, consider the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Camera, which produces smaller, rectangular prints and features a cheerful aesthetic, making it an ideal choice for anyone.
Price: Fujifilm Instax, $80 available at Adorama | Fujifilm Instax Mini, $70 available at Target
GoPro Hero8 Black
With many typical activities limited this year, spending time in nature has become a favored and secure option for enjoyment. For individuals who thrive on excitement – whether through activities like rock climbing, snowboarding, or surfing – the newest GoPro model is an excellent choice. It allows for capturing dynamic photos and videos during action-packed moments that would otherwise be impossible to record. Beyond adventurous pursuits, a GoPro offers a unique and entertaining alternative for everyday photography, much like an instant camera. During my honeymoon, I frequently used it for still photography, even outside of water activities; the compact and durable design simply makes it a fun and distinct camera to have.
Price: $280 from REI
SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO SDXC
It’s a mystery how photographers continually seem to need more memory cards! These SD cards offer quick performance, dependable operation, and broad compatibility with various devices. Similar to socks, SD cards tend to disappear, and it often feels like you’re constantly purchasing them, yet you can never have too many. They make excellent gifts for a stocking!
Price: $20 or more from Amazon, with the final cost varying based on storage capacity
Sony RX100 VII
Are you searching for a gift for someone who desires a remarkably small camera for travel, is interested in starting photography without the complexity of lenses, or simply requires a convenient, pocket-sized camera for everyday use? Sony has consistently excelled in the realm of compact cameras, and the RX100 line exemplifies their success. The RX100 VII delivers exceptional performance within a truly compact body, adept at capturing a wide range of images – from introductory astrophotography and professional-quality portraits to everyday snapshots and everything in between. Its comprehensive manual controls allow aspiring photographers to explore advanced techniques, while a simple automatic mode enables effortless picture-taking for those who prefer convenience. Helpful advice: Given that Sony has released six iterations of the RX100, previous models are often available at significant discounts, with minimal compromise in features. We recommend considering the RX100 III or later versions to benefit from the inclusion of a viewfinder.
Price: $1,298 from B&H
B&H Gift Card
Are you looking for the perfect present for a photographer who consistently requires new equipment, yet you're unsure of their specific needs? Or perhaps you know someone interested in beginning photography and would prefer they select their own gear? A gift card from B&H, the prominent photography retailer located in New York, represents an excellent option. Their extensive online store offers a comprehensive selection of photographic products and accessories.
Bushnell Core DS 30MP Low-Glow Trail Camera
The past year has been unusual, and many of us have discovered new and surprising things about our surroundings. For example, I recently found out that coyotes are common visitors to my relatively urban backyard, and unfortunately, they have been preying on local pets. (It’s a disheartening, yet fascinating observation!) With fewer entertainment choices available and the potential for routine to set in, more people are now observing the wildlife in their yards and neighborhoods. Even within city limits, a surprising number of wild animals can be found. Embrace your inner wildlife photographer with a trail camera and discover what animals do when unobserved, revealing their natural behaviors.Another interesting option: While we haven’t personally tested it, the Canon PowerShot Zoom ($299) appears to be a useful gift for anyone who has recently taken up birdwatching or wildlife observation and wants to capture rapidly zoomed-in images.
Price: $199 from Bushnell
Sony a7 III Mirrorless Digital Camera
Many photographers, including myself, have transitioned from DSLRs to full-frame mirrorless cameras recently, and this shift is well-justified. These cameras offer a reduced size and weight, though previously this often meant a trade-off in image quality for the sake of portability. That is no longer the case. Contemporary mirrorless cameras now achieve image quality comparable to their larger, more conventional DSLR alternatives, while their lighter build and compact dimensions make them more convenient for various photographic pursuits such as travel, street photography, or outdoor shoots. Selecting from the numerous full-frame mirrorless cameras available is a safe bet for most users, but the Sony a7 III stands out as an excellent choice for those dedicated to advancing their photographic skills. The recently released Sony a7C is also a noteworthy full-frame mirrorless camera, particularly if you are seeking an even more streamlined option representing the latest advancements in compact camera technology.Price: $1,698 from Amazon
Fujifilm’s X100V
Does someone you care for express a strong preference for film photography, often commenting on how digital technology has impacted the art form and how film cameras offer a unique experience? They may have a valid point. However, you can still bring them joy with the newest iteration of Fujifilm’s highly regarded X100 line. It replicates the intangible qualities of film photography remarkably well, incorporating numerous subtle features – such as a traditional aesthetic and an ISO control – that evoke the charm of shooting with film. A considerable price reduction can be achieved by locating a previous model in new condition. Price: $1,399 from Adorama
Nikon D3500 and Canon EOS Rebel T7
Image Credits: Nikon
While compact mirrorless cameras are currently very popular, a traditional DSLR remains a strong option in many cases. For individuals beginning to learn photography, a DSLR with a “cropped sensor” – as opposed to a professional, full-frame model – can be an especially beneficial starting point. These camera bodies and their accompanying lenses tend to be larger, offering a more substantial feel that can assist new photographers in developing a solid understanding of photographic principles. Typically, these cameras are sold with a kit lens (18-55mm) which, while not exceptional, combined with an inexpensive 50mm f/1.8 lens, provides ample opportunity for experimentation. The choice between Nikon and Canon is largely a matter of preference – selecting one brand and sticking with it is a perfectly reasonable approach. These cameras also represent excellent, budget-friendly options for teenagers exploring the world of photography!
Price: Nikon D3500, $499 from Amazon | Canon EOS Rebel T7, $449 from Canon
Peak Design Field Pouch and Tech Pouch
Peak Design has gained significant recognition for its camera bags, which are highly regarded and worth considering. While selecting a bag is often a matter of individual preference, even photographers with comprehensive equipment sets will find these practical pouches valuable for securely storing SD cards – preventing them from getting lost – and various small accessories essential for carrying with a camera bag. Peak Design’s organizational products are consistently well-conceived and aesthetically pleasing, making them a reliable choice. Price: Field Pouch, $40 from Peak Design | Tech Pouch, $60 from Peak Design
