Shopping for the photographer on your Christmas list can be a challenge.
First of all, a lot of that stuff is expensive! We photographers are always saving towards the camera and lens collection of our dreams. And with the wide variety of equipment and assortments, it can be difficult to casually pick up the right something they’ll love. Good thing I came up with this list of 13 gifts your photographer will adore. And -because money can be a little tight this time of year- everything on this list is under $20.
*This web page may contain affiliate links for your convenience; meaning I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a qualifying purchase. This is at no extra cost to you, but does help to support this blog.
1. PHOTOGRAPHY CRYSTAL BALL WITH STAND & POUCH
How often do you get to give a crystal ball to someone with the full expectation they’ll use it? Not to peer into the future, though. This crystal ball can be used with either smartphone cameras, or DSLR/mirrorless cameras to create inverted reflections. It’s suitable for all levels of photography and a fun accessory to change up landscape photos.
2. I SHOOT PEOPLE – GLASS COFFEE MUG – UNDER $15
This is a great gift for the photographer with a sense of humor! A clear glass mug like this can be used for more than just coffee. Even as a pencil holder it will get a few laughs. This 13 oz. coffee mug is the perfect conversation starter.
Warning: Not for the humorless.
3. STAINLESS STEEL THERMOS CAMERA LENS COFFEE MUG -13.5OZ W/ 2 SEALED & RETRACTABLE LIDS – UNDER $15
This is another conversation starter that will remind you of your love of lenses and photography while enjoying your favorite beverage. The makers say, “Hot Drinks Taste Better From A Camera Lens” and I have to agree! I definitely prefer the screw top, non-spill lid (for obvious reasons!) and like it so much that I own more than one.
This is a lens that anyone can afford. It looks exactly like a Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens!
Warning: Just like a real Canon lens, this replica is not designed for the microwave or dishwasher. Hand wash only!
If you’re shopping for a Nikon shooter, click here: https://amzn.to/36PWJLt. It is technically more than $20 but I know how sensitive Nikon and Canon users are about their cameras.
4. KURT ADLER CLASSIC & DIGITAL CAMERA CHRISTMAS TREE ORNAMENT (SET OF 2)
These Christmas tree ornaments are adorable and get great reviews on amazon. I’m still waiting for someone to gift me with one 😉
They come as a set of two and it is so fun to have both a new and old camera design represented. Although I do have a super cute camera ornament (pictured below) that was given to me by a dear friend and fellow photographer, I have no idea where she got them but it is beautiful and I love having it on my tree. And I can’t wait to have these on the tree, too, as soon as someone gifts them my way!
5. BLACK CAMERA ORNAMENT – UNDER $10
You can’t go wrong with gifting anyone who loves photography a camera, even if it is as an ornament. These make great stocking stuffers, too!
6. ZAKKA CAMERA WOODEN PENCIL HOLDER DESKTOP PENCIL HOLDER VINTAGE CAMERA DECOR – UNDER $15
There are a couple pencil holders on this list that are great because they can be used for any number of purposes. This product holds more than the others in this list and therefore a little more functional. The clean wood design has a minimalist appeal.
7. BELLAA 21390 CAMERA PENCIL HOLDER RETRO PEN DESK ORGANIZER – UNDER $15
This is perfect gift for the photography lover who enjoys vintage cameras and décor. This is great as a pencil holder but I’d personally I’d like to use it for makeup brushes. It can be used as a bookend, too.
8. BELLAA 24094 CAMERA PEN PENCIL HOLDER DESK ORGANIZER BOOKEND BOOKSHELF DECOR 6 INCH – UNDER $15
This pencil holder is similar to the other Bellaa item on the list with a more modern camera as the model. But it’s just as versatile as the other one. Pens, pencils, brushes…it’ll hold them all.
9. LIFE IS LIKE A CAMERA – 5 X 10 INCH HANGING DECORATIVE WOOD SIGN – UNDER $15
This great motivational wall decoration that uses photography terminology to remind us what is important. It makes a lovely gift for the photography lover on your Christmas list.
10. CANON DSLR CHEAT SHEETS TIP CARDS
This gift is only appropriate for a photographer who uses a Canon Camera. If you’re unsure whether or not they are then pause what you’re doing and go find out. I’ll wait.
They are Canon users? Wonderful.
These are great for photographers who still getting to know their Canon camera. They cover common situations with specific instructions for settings, etc. What’s especially great about these cards is that they’re waterproof so they can be used in the field.
11. SMARTPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY CHEAT SHEETS FOR IPHONE – POCKET-SIZED REFERENCE CARDS
These are brand new to Amazon as of July of 2019 and only have 1 5-star review. This would usually make us wary but the author of this product, Snap Happy Mom, has a passion for teaching moms to take better pictures of their kids and she offers lots of tutorials and classes on her website. The lone reviewer’s positive opinion speaks well for the product. Snap Happy Mom might be really popular among moms of small children, but personally I think this gift may be an even more perfect gift for Grandma (or someone discovering photography later in life).
12. VINTAGE CAMERA PHOTO ALBUM – UNDER $10
The photographer in your life will be excited to fill the pages of this photo album with their own original compositions and masterpieces.
13. ORIGINAL CLASSIC CAMERA PATENT POSTER PRINTS, SET OF 4 (8×10) UNFRAMED PHOTOS
For anyone who loves cameras, these classic camera patents are as technical as they are beautiful. We love the antique look of the prints and they look great hanging together or spaced out. The only thing I have to say about this is, where can I put them?!
What’s most important during this time of year is letting the people in your life know that you care about them. These gifts are thoughtful ways to encourage those who have a passion for photography and make them feel loved. From our family of photography lovers to yours, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and happy shopping!




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