Gifts for Photographers

Photographers always need one more battery, card or strap, and they love seeing their work printed. A workshop or photo walk is great for the eager learner.

13 ideas to start from

Shared sibling photo frame with a childhood picture

A photo of you both as kids beside a recent one; siblings love the comparison.

Under $25sentimental

Framed photo of a shared place

A picture of somewhere that matters to both of you says "I remember" better than any card.

$25–50sentimental

Digital photo frame preloaded with family photos

Grandparents especially love a frame that the family can keep adding new pictures to.

$50–100sentimental

Dog photo session

A short shoot with a pet photographer gives them portraits they'll frame.

$100–250experience

Baby photo book or memory journal

Somewhere to record firsts before they forget them.

Under $25sentimental

Print of their best photo, framed

Pick their favourite shot from social media and have it printed large and framed.

$50–100sentimental

Photo book of the year

Gather the year's photos into a printed book; it lives on the coffee table instead of a camera roll.

$25–50sentimental

Photography workshop or photo walk

A guided photo walk teaches composition and light in a real setting.

$50–100experience

Extra camera battery and fast SD card

Every photographer runs out of power or space eventually; check their camera model first.

$25–50practical

Online class in a skill they want

A course in photography, drawing or a language they've been meaning to learn.

$50–100practical

Instant camera and film

Physical prints at a party or trip feel special in a phone-photo world.

$50–100fun

Phone tripod and ring light

For teens and creators who film, stream or video call a lot.

$25–50fun

Camera strap in leather or webbing

A comfortable strap is an easy, personal upgrade for a photographer.

$25–50practical

Make it personal

Lists are a starting point. Tell the generator one or two things about this particular person and get ideas no list would include.

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Tips for choosing

  • Check their camera model before buying batteries or lenses.
  • Lenses and bodies are personal; avoid surprises there.
  • Printing their best shot is cheap and very personal.

New to this? Our guide to choosing a gift explains why recipients and givers judge gifts differently.

Questions

What do you buy a photographer?

An extra battery and fast memory card for their camera, a comfortable strap, a framed print of their best photo, or a photography workshop.

What are good gifts for beginner photographers?

A photo walk or workshop, a camera bag, or an instant camera for fun.

Is a camera lens a good gift?

Only if they told you exactly which one; lenses are expensive and mount-specific.