I always love getting the question “What should I get my (insert loved one) who is just discovering photography?”  It makes my heart really happy because it takes me back to when I started getting serious about learning my camera!  So today, I’m sharing with you my top gift ideas for beginning photographers.

[Disclaimer: Adrienne Zwart Photography, LLC is an Amazon affiliate.  Which means that when you shop through some of the links on this page, I receive a small commission from your purchase.  If it bothers you that I might earn enough to buy a cup of coffee, feel free to Google the links on your own.]

First up is this book, Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson.  It’s easy to follow and was probably the book I used the most at the beginning of my photography journey.

 

If your photographer learns better with a more hands-on approach and you live in Uniontown, Ohio (or the Akron area), my beginning and intermediate photography classes make a great gift!  You can book their seat for my January class using your email at checkout and then I’ll update their registration after Christmas so they get all the pre-class info.

Next is this cute t-shirt from Catch My Mood.  I just ordered this one for myself and am excited to get it!  I just love Etsy and all the creative people sharing their talents there.

When your photographer is out and about with their camera, they are going to need a sturdy bag.  This messenger-style bag works for both guys and girls and it’s waterproof, too!  It has padded dividers inside for added cushioning to protect their gear.  I’d recommend the large size so they have room for an extra lens.  (The one pictured is the medium.)

My all-time favorite lens for photographers who want to take their photography to the next level is the 50mm f/1.4 lens.  It’s a fixed lens (meaning if you want to zoom in, you have to actually walk closer). And yes, it’s totally worth the price jump from the f/1.8 due to the quality of the components.  I’ve linked to the Canon version, but Nikon also has a comparable lens.  (You just need to get the one that matches the camera body brand because they attach differenly.)

I’m not leaving out the smartphone photographer on your list.  This tripod has the same great features you’d find on a pro tripod just sized down for smaller cameras or phones.  It’s got telescoping legs, a bubble level (so horizons will always come out straight) and separate lock controls so you can tilt, pan, and switch from vertical to horizontal easily.

Does your photographer also enjoy crazy socks?  I think these camera socks are super fun!  If these are a little too over-the-top, there are some on Amazon that aren’t quite so colorful.

 

And finally, if your photographer loves fun jewelry, you should check out this silver bracelet with a camera charm.


Oh, I should also mention that if the person you’re shopping for is hoping for a new camera, you will definitely want to grab my Camera Shopping Guide before you head out to the store.  It will help you know what questions to ask your photographer so you know what will best meet their needs.  (Hint:  Most of the time, it’s not the bundle that’s on sale!)

Need More Photography Gift Ideas?

You can also check out my Ultimate Gift Guide for Beginner Photographers from last year for accessory ideas and more!