Great Gifts for Photographers

Photography can be an expensive hobby when you factor in the lenses, computer software, lighting kits and an upgraded camera doesn’t come cheap either. Knowing the specific item to get for your photographer when thinking of ideas for gifts is not simple. There are so many accessories available, but it’s easy to make a mistake and find out your gifts are not compatible with their equipment. You can of course ask precisely what it is they would like as gifts, but if you would prefer an element of surprise we’ve listed some practical ideas that we believe any photographer will enjoy, as they let them display their artistic passion in creative ways.

Photo scanner

Before digital cameras, thousands of people managed to take a lot of photos. Now it is possible to scan old 35mm slide and film and create digital versions with high resolution for clear pictures. Photo scanners will digitise all film and also all prints. Most scanners provide photo-friendly features, such as high resolution and the ability to scan transparencies such as slides and negatives in addition to photo prints. Some scanners also include software to help retouch and remove scratches. Though geared to photo scanning, most photo scanners can also be used for general-purpose scanning, and some include optical character recognition software. This is one of the best gifts for older people who can introduce the younger generation to pictures from their younger days.

Smartphone Film Photo Scanner

A simpler version of a scanner that does not cost so much, but still allows the sharing of film negatives with friends and family, is a smartphone film photo scanner. All you need to do is insert the film into the scanner, turn on the device’s back-light and start snapping photos of the negative with the smartphone’s camera. This device also comes with a free app that allows you to edit images before uploading them to social media.

Classic instant film camera

An instant film camera is a great present for someone who is new to photography. These cameras are small enough to carry anywhere and allow novices to take great pictures thanks to the automatic features. Usually the camera determines the brightness and will then automatically adjust the flash and shutter speed. Some cameras will have a mode that activates a fast shutter speed that is perfect for capturing pets and children who don’t stay still for a photograph. You can choose a bright, funky style camera, or a traditional classic look.

Photo whitening table

For the photographer who creates retail photographs of products, a professional, non-reflective and non-creasing photo whitening table creates the highest quality images look the highest of quality and reduces the amount of time you have to later spend on photo editing programmes such as photoshop, since it provides a perfect white background. Perfect for those who sell online, you can choose tables or boxes of varying sizes. Some are capable of holding fairly large objects with canvases at 2m x 1m. The canvas part of the table can usually be adjusted so that it can lie flat or at a full right angle. Features can also include clamps to keep awkwardly shaped items in a position to capture the best image.

Lightweight tripod

A light, but sturdy tripod helps you take great photographs, particularly of wildlife. The best tripods are easy to use and quick to extend. Rotating leg locks were best. A quick release mounting plate and a sturdy carry bag makes this one of the best gifts for a photographer.

Professional audio microphone

If you want to create a video with a professional sound but your SLR does not have great sound quality, an external microphone will make all the difference. A professional audio microphone will offer great sound quality and a high level of rejection of ambient noise to guarantee an excellent sound recording. These are compatible with DSLR cameras, video cameras and audio recorders or any other device with 3.5mm mini jack input. The design to look for should be ergonomic, lightweight, with integrated damping support which reduces vibrations. There should also be a wind-shield next to the microphone.

New camera bag

Photographers usually add to their kit over time, so perhaps the best gift for them would be a new camera bag with plenty of space for their camera, lenses and accessories, including the charger. Most bags will have sections that you can move to create the perfect holder. A bag that is waterproof will protect items from the rain. Available in a range of materials and styles from leather to canvas and from backpack to satchel, a new camera bag should be comfortable to carry. An internal zip helps to secure a bag, making it harder for anyone to steal your camera.