^{Photo by Steven Van on Unsplash}

Are you ready to step things up and create videos that have more impact and more drama?

Then you’re in the right place…

Making the move from beginner videography techniques to more advanced techniques doesn’t have to be confusing or complicated.

In fact, in this tutorial, you’ll learn four tips that are easy to implement, yet can have a profound impact on the quality of your videos.

Editor's Tip: To create the best videos, you need high-quality sound to go along with your footage. For my videos, I source sound effects and music from the industry leader - Epidemic Sound. You can find just about any kind of audio for any kind of video, and for the right price. Don't let your videos flop with terrible audio. Get Epidemic Sound today!

Advanced Videography Technique #1: Avoid Too Many Wide Shots 

^{photo by 10174593_258 via iStock} 

When creating a video, it’s important to vary the type of shot sequences to give the final version a more dynamic look and feel.

There are three primary types of shots - wide, medium, and close-up - though each has many different variations.

Wide shots are typically used to set the stage and establish an idea of the location for the viewers while medium shots are intended to show action or movement, and to give the viewers a more intimate look at the subject. Naturally, close-up shots are designed to introduce the character in a very intimate way, and typically focus on feelings, emotions, and so forth. 

^{photo by Sujay_Govindaraj via iStock}

Since wide shots are create for setting the stage of the video, they really should be used sparingly.

Once you’ve given viewers an idea of where the story is taking place, focus on creating medium and close-up sequences to keep them engaged with the story.

Learn More:

• Video Composition Tip: What Angles to Shoot at and Why
• How to Make the Move from Photography to Videography

Advanced Videography Technique #2: Use Backlighting Sparingly 

 ^{photo by AzmanJaka via iStock}

Though backlighting can be quite dramatic when viewed with our own eyes, when you record a backlit scene, it’s often a bit of a mess. 

That’s because it’s difficult for the camera to accommodate the wide dynamic range, or range of values from light to dark, in a single shot.

So, though you can see a person’s face when the scene is backlit, on video, it’s usually rendered as a bright halo effect around a dark figure. If that’s the look you want, great. If not, you’ll need to avoid backlighting when possible. 

Quick Tip: The easiest way you can improve a backlit situation is by moving your shooting position to the left or right of the subject. Doing so removes the light source from the shot.

Advanced Videography Technique #3: Incorporate Foreground and Background Elements  

^{photo by think4photop via iStock} 

When you take a photo of a landscape, it’s often recommended to have foreground and background elements in the shot to give it depth.

The same tip works well for shooting video.

The issue, of course, is that when you shoot video, it can appear quite flat if there aren’t interesting things at varying distances from the lens.

You don’t have to go overboard here, either…

^{photo by bombuscreative via iStock} 

Just like with a still photo, shooting through something like foliage in the foreground will frame the subject will providing the depth you’re looking for.

Likewise, ensuring there’s a pleasing background behind the subject as you roll video will add some dimension to the shot while also giving it more visual appeal.

Learn More:

•  Why Videography is Important for Every Photographer
•  How to Create Professional-Looking Videos (Without Being a Pro)

Editor's Tip: One of the best accessories you can buy for your camera for shooting video is a field monitor. Having a high-quality field monitor enables you to get a better picture of what you're filming, even in bright sunlight. And if you're vlogging and need to see yourself on screen, you can't beat the larger display that a field monitor provides. I use the Andycine A6 Lite, and appreciate the bright, color-neutral display. When shopping for a field monitor, look for one that has a multi-angle tilting arm, that way you have a good view of the screen regardless of the shooting angle. The Andycine model I use has this feature and can be used in vertical or horizontal aspect as well. It makes shooting high-quality video so much easier!

Advanced Videography Technique #4: Equip Yourself With an Awe-Inspiring Camera

One of the best things about being a video creator is that there are so many ways to create a unique video.

One such way is to expand your cache of cameras to include something like the Insta360 One X, which can completely change how you approach filmmaking.

I know what you're thinking - 360-degree cameras have terrible video quality and even worse image quality. And while that's been true in the past, the Insta360 One X changes that.

Not only is this thing stuffed full of handy features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, a standard tripod mount, and a companion smartphone app, but it also has two really good f/2 fisheye lenses. Each one has a 200-degree field of view, and since they overlap, they combine to get you a true 360-degree image or video footage.

Aside from being super small (just .25 pounds!) and easy to use, this camera has a major trick up its sleeve that makes it the best 360-degree camera to date: FlowState Image Stabilization.

I'm not smart enough to understand how it works, but the fact of the matter is that it uses a six-axis gyro stabilizer to give you buttery smooth footage, even if you and the camera are bouncing around all over the place.

It's truly an innovative and incredibly useful feature. See for yourself in the video below!

With more traditional footage from your phone, DSLR, or mirrorless camera combined with the fantastic 360-degree view from the Insta360 One X, there is no limit to what you can create.

Video content is all about engaging viewers, piquing their interest, and commanding their attention. And with the Insta360 One X, you can do just that!

Advanced Videography Technique #5: Harness the Power of a High-Quality Video Editor 

You can shoot all the video sequences you want, but if you don’t have a high-quality video editor to put them all together, you won’t have a compelling final product.

While many video editors are complicated to use, expensive to buy, or both, there are options out there that offer tons of upside without being difficult to use or expensive.

One of my favorite video editors that fits that description is Kizoa.

What I like about Kizoa is that it’s both a cloud-based editor you can use on your computer and a free iOS app you can use on your iPhone.

That’s handy because you won’t always be at home or in your office when your creativity strikes, so having the option to put videos together on your phone is invaluable.

Something else I appreciate about Kizoa is that it’s so easy to use.

For example, you can get the editing process started by using one of Kizoa’s beautiful pre-made templates.

Just start plugging in your videos (and photos too), and you can have a professional-looking video in a matter of minutes.

There are tons of options and features as well, so it’s both easy to use and extremely productive.

You can add different fonts and text effects, transitions and fades, music, special effects, and more.

Best of all, unlike so many other video editors, Kizoa is budget-friendly.

The free account offers a ton of features, but if you want to remove the Kizoa watermark from your videos, you’ll need to upgrade to a premium package.

Since premium packages start at just $29.99 - which is a one-time fee, by the way - you won’t be out hardly any money to get lifetime access to a truly excellent editor.

If you’re ready to take your videos from so-so to spectacular, use these tips for your next video. I trust you’ll see a significant difference in quality!

Learn More:

• Top Free or Inexpensive Video Editors
• Must-Have Gear for New Videographers

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^{Photo by MicroStockHub via iStock}

Black Friday is coming in hot, and a lot of photography companies have smokin' hot deals.

Of course, we can't preview ALL of the Black Friday 2023 photography deals, but what we can do is give you a head's up on some of our favorite items on sale this year.

So, without further ado, let's dive in and see what deep discounts await you this holiday season!

Table of Contents

• Skylum Luminar Neo
• Saal Digital
• Vanguard
• Sigma
• Adorama
• Insta360

Skylum Luminar Neo - Up to 85% off

Luminar Neo is one of my favorite photo editors thanks to its impressive (and easy-to-use) AI-based tools. If you haven't tried it yet, you should - and you'll be hooked!

Now is the time to give Luminar Neo a try, too as, Skylum is offering incredible deals on this fantastic photo editor:

• New users get a 12-month Pro subscription plus the Creative Assets Collection for $79 (normally $479), a 24-month Pro subscription plus the Creative Assets Collection for $119 (normally $659), or a Lifetime subscription with Extentions, the Creative Journey Pass, and the Creative Assets Collection for $149 (normally $998) 
• Luminar Neo Lifetime owners can get the Extentions Pack and the Creative Journey Pass for $99 (normally $411) or a 24-month Pro subscription plus Creative Assets Collection for $99 (normally $479)

This Black Friday deal is good until 7:00 am EST on November 27th.

Learn more about Luminar Neo's Black Friday deals

Saal Digital

Saal Digital has won high praise from me this year for their high-quality products, their extensive selection of prints, and their superb customer service. In a space that's full of excellent options, Saal Digital stands with the best of them, and this year during their Black Week event, you can get your very own Saal Digital products and save some green stuff, too:

• $15 voucher for purchases over $30: WgxCheh4kb-JVG
• $30 voucher for purchases over $60: bm9zUkeFCQ-JVG
• $45 voucher for purchases over $120: PU9Ce2sXJe-JVG
• $60 voucher for purchases over $150: 3UJFTcX3NJ-JVG

Choose which of the Black Week coupons suits you best and redeem it to purchase anything in their range of products. These deals are valid until November 24, 2023, and cannot be combined with other promotions.

Learn more about Saal Digital's Black Friday deals

Vanguard

I've used Vanguard tripods, bags, and other gear for years, and appreciate the build quality, ease of use, and affordable price point - you will too! That's especially true with these Holiday Sale photography deals (which are good through December 31st):

• Alta Sky 68 Large Camera Backpack - $239.99 (normally $369.99)
• VEO 3T+ 264AB Aluminum Travel Tripod - $249.99 (normally $379.99)
• Alta Pro 2+ 263AP Aluminum Tripod with 3-Way Video Pan Head - $199.99 (normally $299.99)
• Alta Fly 58T Rolling Camera Bag - $269.99 (normally $399.99)

Learn more about Vanguard's Holiday Sale deals

Sigma

Sigma has made a name for itself for exceptional lenses at affordable prices. But, as is the case this time of year, those affordable prices are even more affordable with savings of up to $200 now through December 10th:

• 105mm F2.8 DG DN MACRO Art for Sony E-Mount and L-Mount - $699 (normally $799)
• 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art for Sony E-mount and L-Mount - $1,049 (normally $1,099)
• 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports for Sony E-mount and L-Mount - $1,299 (normally $1,499)

Learn more about Sigma's Black Friday deals

Adorama

Adorama is one of the biggest photography retailers in the nation, and their selection of photography gear (and other goodies) is second to none. This Black Friday, Adorama has tons of incredible deals, including a variety of big sales on Panasonic Lumix gear:

• Lumix DC-S5 Mirrorless Digital Camera with Lumix S 20-60mm L-Mount Lens Bundle - $1,597.99 (normally $2,097.99)
• LUMIX S5 II Mirrorless Digital Camera Body - $1,697.99 (normally $1,997.99)
• LUMIX S5 II Mirrorless Digital Camera with Lumix S 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens - $1,997.99 (normally $2,297.99)

Adorama has great deals on other brands, too, like $400 off the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mirrorless Digital Camera w/ M.Zuiko ED 12-40mm PRO II Lens Kit, $300 off the Nikon D7500 DSLR with 18-140mm VR Lens, and $200 off the Canon EOS R8 Mirrorless Digital Camera with RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, to name a few.

Learn more about Adorama's Black Friday deals

Insta360

Insta360 is one of the most innovative action camera companies, and this Black Friday, they're bringing the heat with deals on many of their top sellers:

• Insta360 X3 - 10% off plus a FREE T-shirt and 20% off Insta360 Care and Extended Warranty when purchased with select products (available in select countries and regions) You can also choose from a FREE 114cm Invisible Selfie Stick, Sticky Lens Guards or Battery.
• Insta360 GO 3 - 5% off plus a FREE T-shirt and 20% off Insta360 Care and Extended Warranty when purchased with select products (available in select countries and regions). You can get a FREE extra Lens Guard or Carry Case, too!
• Insta360 Flow - 12% off plus a FREE T-shirt and 20% off Insta360 Care and Extended Warranty when purchased with select products (available in select countries and regions). You can also choose a FREE All-Purpose Tripod or Spotlight.
• Insta360 ONE RS - 25% off Twin Edition, 20% off 4K Edition and 10% off Core Bundle plus a FREE T-shirtand 20% off Insta360 Careand Extended Warranty when purchased with select products (available in select countries and regions). You also get a FREE ONE RS Battery Base.

Learn more about Insta360's Black Friday deals

Disclaimer: Our articles might have affiliate links and the occasional sponsored content, but don't sweat it – if you buy something, we get a little kickback at no extra cost to you, and we only hype products we truly believe in!

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^{Photo by Eugene_EM via iStock}

Each year, we publish a series of lists of our favorite photography gear for holiday shopping. This go-round is our list of gear under $1,000.

While a lot of photography gear is far more expensive than a $1,000 budget allows, there's plenty of other gift ideas that are less than a grand, and in many cases, a lot less.

Our 2022 list has some great options for your holiday shopping, so scroll down to get started!

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: CanvasPrints.com Canvas Print

I don’t know about you, but I find that there are two common problems when searching for gifts for my loved ones. First, I have a lot of people in my life that are difficult to shop for. And second, it can be difficult to find gifts that have long-term utility.

I think I’ve found a solution for both problems, though…

This year, I’m giving canvas prints to many of the people on my holiday shopping list. Why? Well, it’s easy! Even the most difficult of people to shop for enjoy a good photo. What’s more, the chances are high that they have wall space to put a printed photo.

On top of that, a canvas print is something that can be enjoyed for years - decades, really - to come. It isn’t a one-and-done gift that offers flash-in-the-pan excitement during the holidays, then finds its way into a closet somewhere. 

Instead, by giving someone a gorgeous photo that’s been hand-crafted just for them, you can give them the gift of time - time to enjoy the print each and every day.

So, the question is, where do you get a good canvas print?

Earlier this year, I ordered a canvas print from CanvasPrints.com. It was my first such order, so I wasn’t completely sure what to expect.

Well, what I got in the mail was a superb canvas print!

As I shared in this post, the canvas I got from CanvasPrints.com ticks all the boxes in terms of quality:

• The printing process was flawless, with no ink smudges or stains.
• The high-quality canvas is tightly wrapped around the frame, with no waves or puckering.
• The frame is well-made with square corners and a center support to ensure it stays square.
• The canvas is attached to the frame with plenty of staples to further ensure the canvas remains tight.

Additionally, I like that CanvasPrints.com uses a wire hanger on the back rather than the more typical sawtooth hanger. I find that sawtooth hangers are often not attached to the frame in the center (and often aren’t level, either), which obviously complicates hanging the print level. With a wire hanger, there’s no concern there!

In other words, my first experience with CanvasPrints.com could not have gone better. As a result of that, they’ve earned my business for additional prints for myself and for my loved ones this holiday season. You should entrust them to create a beautiful print of your images as well!

I should note that the materials used to create these prints are American-made and of the utmost quality to ensure the print that arrives at your door looks incredible. If something goes awry, no worries - CanvasPrints.com offers a 100-percent money-back guarantee with your print.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your holiday shopping done, get a fantastic gift that keeps on giving, and give the gift of a special moment in time with a CanvasPrints.com print!

Learn more about CanvasPrints.com

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: f-stop Shinn Adventure and Cine Backpack

f-stop makes some really fine bags - there's no doubt about that. And while a camera backpack that's $700 might seem like a crazy price, this is one of those situations in which you really do get what you pay for.

Besides, if you're carrying thousands and thousands of dollars of photography gear, you want it inside a rock-solid protective bag. That's exactly what the f-stop Shinn is!

At 80 liters, this is an absolutely enormous bag. As such, it accommodates a lot of gear.

With that much space, you can carry a large camera setup or cine rig. Alternatively, you could carry multiple DSLR or mirrorless systems at the same time.

The exterior of the bag is made from f-stop's proprietary DuraDiamond material, which is incredibly strong, super lightweight, and weather resistant.

Carrying so much weight means you'll want a solid system for managing all that weight on your body, and the Shinn does that with BLOOM foam shoulder straps and hip belt. My f-stop Tilopa has this kind of shoulder straps and hip belt, and it's one of the most comfortable setups I've ever experienced.

In addition to the BLOOM foam straps and belt, the Shinn also has an aluminum frame that helps shift the weight of the bag to your hips, which is exactly where you want it. A combination of plastic and T6 aluminum hardware helps strengthen the critical components of the suspension system as well.

Inside, the bag has loads of organization and storage features to keep small items like cords, memory cards, and batteries neatly tucked away.

To organize your camera gear, you can use a Cine Master Camera Bag Insert or a Pro XL camera insert. These inserts are crucial because they keep your gear neatly tucked away, safely ensconced in a soft cubby to prevent damage. And if you're taking a trip without your camera gear, just remove the inserts and you have a cavernous bag to fit all the adventure gear you need!

I've had many f-stop bags over the years, with each one seemingly better than the last. These guys know how to put a bag together, from using weather-resistant zippers to providing multiple access points to developing the best carrying system on the market.

If you really want to wow the photographer in your life, the f-stop Shinn is just the gift to do it!

Learn more about the f-stop Shinn Adventure and Cine Backpack

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: iMovR Jaxson Standing Desk

Sitting at a desk editing photos all day isn't just uncomfortable. It's also unhealthy. As photographers, we need to get up, move around, and change positions as we work over the course of the day. The iMovR Jaxson Standing Desk can help in that endeavor.

As you'd expect from iMovR, this is a beautifully designed and built desk. It features brushless motor lifting columns for smooth adjustments and advanced 3D-laminated desktops that are both beautiful and durable.

The desk's contoured edges, array of desktop finishes, and warm base colors make this an attractive addition to a home office as well.

Perhaps the best feature of the Jaxson Standing Desk is the technology it incorporates.

Not only does it have NFC and Bluetooth, but it also has infrared presence sensing so it knows if you're at the desk or not. Likewise, there's a collision detection system to ensure that the desk won't impact other objects as it raises or lowers.

The health coach smartphone app is another top feature that extends the capabilities of this desk and helps you maintain healthy movement throughout the day.

Add in a 15-year warranty and a 100-day satisfaction guarantee to the mix!

These desks are proudly made in the USA and make a superb holiday gift idea for yourself or the photographer on your shopping list.

With a wide range of finish options and tons of technology to help you have a more comfortable workday, there's no reason not to invest in a Jaxson Standing Desk!

Learn more about the iMovR Jaxson Standing Desk

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Peak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod

If you’re shopping for a photographer that typically travels a lot, I’ve got a great gift idea for you. 

The Peak Design Travel Tripod is an incredible bit of design. It’s a full-fledged tripod that’s ultra sturdy and durable, yet when collapsed is about the diameter of a water bottle for super easy packing.

This particular tripod is made of carbon fiber to keep the weight down and has aluminum leg locking cams that allow you to simultaneously release the leg’s 5 sections. This makes setting up the tripod a quick job. 

The tripod extends up to 60 inches with the center column deployed and can get down to just 5.5 inches above the ground for low-angle shots.

You also get a ball head that was completely redesigned and includes no knobs or levers that stick out - which is part of what makes this tripod so packable and easy to travel with. 

Add in a quick-release system that fits Peak Design plates and most Arca-type plates, a 20-pound load capacity, and non-slip shock-absorbing feet (among many other features), and you have the makings of a gift that your favorite photographer will be over the moon for!

Learn more about the Peak Design Travel Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Pre-Owned Sony Alpha a6300 

A great holiday gift idea for the photographer on your list is a Sony camera.

By opting for a pre-owned camera, you can save a ton of money while still giving an awesome gift this holiday season.

The Sony a6300 offers lots of features, including a 24.2-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor, a BIONZ X image processor, 4K video at 30p, HD video at 1080p/120, and continuous shooting at 11fps.

Add to that a spectacular 425-point autofocus system with tracking AF, excellent image quality, and a small, lightweight body, and the a6300 is a perfect gift for a photographer that needs a capable yet highly portable camera.

Plus, with the a6300, you give the gift of a small, yet mighty camera with superb photographic and video capabilities, but that can easily slide into a camera bag with loads of room to spare.

There are also many different lenses that work with this camera, so if you wanted to expand the gift-giving, you could potentially find a nice pre-owned E-mount lens to add to the mix.

Whether the photographer on your list photographs people, buildings, landscapes, wildlife, or something in between, this camera will be a welcome addition to their camera bag!

Learn more about the Sony a6300Sony a6300

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Synology 6 bay NAS DiskStation DS1621+

Yet another ideal gift for the photographer on your list this holiday season is a device that enables quick, secure storage of a ton of files. Tons of files is something every photographer has!

The Synology DiskStation DS1621+ is a great solution for backup and storage with six bays in a compact setup that can be put on top of a desk.

This model has faster performance than the previous model with read speeds up to 174 percent faster and 76 percent faster write speeds. It's also scalable, with the ability to have up to 16 drives with two DX517 expansion units.

The DS1621+ is also ready for 10GbE with the ability to increase network bandwidth by adding a 10GbE SFP+ or RJ-45 NIC. 

On top of all that, the DS1621+ offers the flexibility to back up data from the cloud, virtual machines, and Windows PCs and servers, along with data on the NAS itself. This can be done with several easy-to-use tools including HyperBackup, Snapshot Replication, and Synology's Active Backup suite.

In other words, Synology makes it as easy as possible to get those all-important files backed up. In a busy day of running a photography business, that's just the kind of peace of mind you need!

Learn more about the Synology 6 Bay NAS DiskStation DS1621+

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Cutco Galley Set With Block

We've been doing this gift guides for years now, and every year, we get requests to add lifestyle items to the mix - things that might not be related to photography, but that photographers (and anyone!) can enjoy. So, this year, we're doing just that.

A good knife set is like a good camera kit - when you buy top-quality products, your ability to work with them and the results you get will be better. Plus, quality gear lasts forever, so making an investment in something that's well-made and durable will benefit you now and long into the future.

One of the lifestyle gift ideas I immediately thought of for this list is this Galley Set with Block from Cutco.

I have several Cutco products, and I can't rave about them enough. From the quality of the knives to the beauty of the block to the functionality of having a multi-piece set, Cutco gives you everything you need to get cracking in the kitchen.

This particular set includes:

• A honey finish oak block
• A medium cutting board
• A turning fork
• A spatula spreader
• A slicer
• A petite carver
• A trimmer
• A 7 5/8-inch chef knife
• A 2 3/4-inch paring knife
• Your choice of classic, pearl, or red handles

In other words, you get everything you need to get yourself out of your editing studio and into the kitchen for a relaxing session of cooking. What could be better than cooking with this gorgeous set from Cutco?!

Learn more about the Cutco Galley Set With Block

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Holdfast Roamographer

With a $1,000 holiday budget, you can give the photographer on your list a gift that is impeccably designed, highly functional, and way under budget, too. 

The Holdfast Roamographer bag is one of the finest leather camera bags on the market. It offers gorgeous aesthetics with an American Bison leather exterior that’s beautiful and rugged at the same time.

Not only will this leather stand up to the elements and age with grace, but it’s also weather resistant so you can be sure the contents of the bag remain safe and dry.

It’s a big bag and can carry lots of gear, but carrying it is a breeze with an adjustable shoulder strap with a shearling-lined shoulder pad for comfort.

Or, if you prefer, you can carry the Roamographer using the Holdfast MoneyMaker for even more functionality and comfort, as seen above.

The inside of the bag must be mentioned as well. 

The removable camera insert means that no matter how much or how little gear your favorite photographer needs to carry, the Roamographer will help them keep it organized.

The padded insert has cubbies specifically for cameras, lenses, flashes, and other accessories, while there’s interior and exterior pockets for other goodies like a phone, car keys, and a tablet.

The insert is removable, too, so on weekends when they’re not on the job, the photographer on your list can use this as a weekend bag, too. 

That makes the Holdfast Roamographer a beautiful, functional, and multi-purpose bag!

Learn more about the Holdfast Roamographer

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Pre-Owned Canon EOS RP

Full frame cameras don't have to be big. They don't have to be expensive, either!

The Canon EOS RP is a perfect gift idea for the holiday season because it offers excellent performance in a small package. Plus, if you buy a pre-owned camera, you can save money to buy additional gifts for the photographer on your list.

The EOS RP is an entry-level full frame camera, but that doesn't mean it lacks features. Instead, this camera is ready to go with:

• 26.2-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
• DIGIC 8 image processor
• Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus
• Built-in EVF with 2.36 million dots of resolution and touch capabilities

Since this is a full frame camera, it offers excellent low-light shooting capabilities. And since it's one of the smallest and lightest full frame mirrorless cameras on the market, it doesn't take up a ton of space in your bag, nor is it difficult to carry.

As I mentioned a moment ago, buying a pre-owned Canon EOS RP gives you flexibility with your budget to get additional items. And while buying used can be a little nerve-wracking, if you shop at MPB, you can rest assured that you're getting a quality used camera.

MPB thoroughly inspects and grades each camera in their inventory and clearly lists the item's condition on the listing page. This enables you to know precisely what to expect when the camera arrives at your door. If, for some reason, you decide you don't want the camera, simply return it during the seven-day return window.

MPB has your back for the long haul, too. Most of their cameras come with a six-month warranty for peace of mind.

Learn more about the Canon EOS RP

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition

Add a little fun to your favorite photographer's photoshoots with the Insta360 ONE RS!

This little camera offers gorgeous 6K 360-degree video capabilities  as well as 21-megapixel 360-degree photos. The camera seamlessly stitches the 360 stills together for a breathtaking view of the subject that's impossible to get with a traditional camera.

These 360-degree images and videos are possible due to the dual one-inch sensors. Both sensors provide unparalleled dynamic range and excellent low-light performance, too.

Other features include:

• PureShot HDR for wider dynamic range
• FlowState Stabilization for beautifully smooth images and videos
• 360 Horizon lock to ensure images and videos are level

The camera comes with a mounting bracket, a vertical battery case, a lens cap, and more!

Learn more about the Insta360 ONE RS

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^{Photo by July Ko via iStock}

Getting a head start on your holiday shopping is helpful, especially if the photographer on your list is hard to shop for. With a little more time (and lists like this) to find a great gift, you can give them something awesome, fun, useful, or all of the above!

We've curated this list in large part by including products we've tested ourselves. With this real-world experience, we can speak to the quality of these items and their usability for photographers of all strips.

So, without further ado, let's get to the list of the best gifts for photographers under $1,000 for 2023!

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Shiny Prints Metal Print

While some gifts for photographers focus on enabling better results with a camera, others allow you to enjoy your favorite images over and over again. Of course, being the holiday season, you can also give the gift of a large-format print to someone on your shopping list.

I'm a big fan of metal prints - I love how modern and sleek they look. And when you get a metal print from a high-quality printer like Shiny Prints, the images you have printed stand out even more. But why?

Well, it's simple - Shiny Prints specializes in metal prints, so they know precisely what they're doing! Evidence of this fact is presented in my review video below:

Not only does Shiny Prints specialize in using metal, but they also use the finest products to ensure the metal print you order is of second-to-none quality.

This quality also stems from the company's extensive experience with photo printing and working with metal. Beyond that, the Shiny Prints commitment to quality over quantity further ensures that the print you get in the mail knocks your socks off.

Additionally, Shiny Prints gives you all sorts of customization options....

For example, you can choose from dozens of sizes ranging from 8x10 to 48x96, or you can order a custom-sized print (or custom shape!) if you really want to impress your loved one this holiday season. Likewise, you can choose from various mounting styles, from a simple box mount to a luxurious tuxedo mount and other options in between. What's more, there are multiple surface options, including matte and gloss in either white or silver.

Heck, there's even a white gloss EXT option specifically formulated for outdoor use.

So, whether you need a big print or a small one or a print for indoors or out, Shiny Prints has exactly what you need.

As I noted earlier, I've been blown away by the quality of the Shiny Prints metal prints I've gotten this far. With this kind of quality and customer service, you are in for a gift-giving treat this holiday season!

Learn more about Shiny Prints

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Hobolite Avant

When shopping for a holiday gift for a photographer, there are a few things to keep in mind…

The gift should be extremely functional. It should also be easy to use. Versatility and portability are features any photographer or videographer will appreciate, too. You can find all of these benefits (and more!) in the Hobolite Avant.

Sure, you can give your loved one a traditional lighting setup for the holidays, but why not give them something far more advanced in a much more portable package? The Avant 3.29”x4.63”x4.91” and weighs less than three pounds, making it the height of portability whether your loved one needs beautiful lighting for product photography, portraiture, or something in between.

And no matter where they go, they can rely on a light that’s built using aircraft-grade aluminum, which not only makes the Avant lightweight, but also incredibly durable. Photography and videography can be tough work, and this little light is ready to rock no matter the circumstances.

Of course, the most important feature of a light for photo or video work is the quality of the light produced, and the Avant delivers on that front, too. With a CRI and TLCI of 96+, you can rely on the Avant to provide beautiful, accurate, and consistent light. What’s more, the Avant is adjustable from 2700 to 6500K, allowing you to fine-tune the color temperature to the specific needs of the photo or video shoot.

What’s more, the Avant’s internal dual drivers offer 100W output throughout its color spectrum and produce excellent luminous flux from 6000 to 8500 lm. Not bad, right?!

But the Avant takes it a step further - with exceptional color consistency, you can use multiple lights for the same shoot and have matching colors across each one. And since the Avant can be controlled via a companion app, you can quickly and easily make adjustments to individual lights or lighting groups with a few taps.

Hobolite has also incorporated a fantastic onboard UI system that gives you a secondary means of controlling and adjusting these lights. Large knurled knobs and four buttons make fine-tuning the light output a breeze, while the bright LED display lets you quickly check settings to create the perfect lighting setup in no time flat.

Aiding in the ease of use is the integrated V-mount, which allows for quick setup and takedown. Furthermore, you can rely on a host of accessories for the detachable lens to customize the light output. For example, you can incorporate a soft box, a lantern, or a Bowen’s Mount Adapter as needed.

Beyond that, the Avant Standard Kit comes with barn doors with colored filters, a V-mount clamp, a V-mount handle, a D-tap cable, and a power supply. Many other Bowen’s mount accessories are compatible with the lighting system as well. Plus, the kit is available in AC or DC formats.

So, to recap, the Hobolite Avant is a professional lighting solution that’s portable, easy to use, and produces clean, accurate lighting. It’s beautifully designed, superbly made, and is ready for use in just about any photography or videography setting.

With professional-grade lighting output, the Avant is an ideal option to give your photography-loving loved one this holiday season!

Learn more about the Hobolite Avant

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Goal Zero Yeti 500X & Solar Panel

When you or your loved one is on location for a photo shoot and need power to charge camera batteries, your phone, and other devices, lugging around a huge generator just isn't the solution.

Instead, something like the Goal Zero Yeti 500X power station is ideal!

Lightweight and compact, this power station comes with multiple ports to charge various devices: AC, 12V, and 60W USB-C among them.

Better still, the Yeti 500X offers high-speed delivery of power so you can juice up your devices without waiting all day. On top of that, this Yeti 500X package comes with a Goal Zero solar panel for charging the power station (or you can charge it from home before you head out or in the car using a 12V outlet).

And at 12.4 pounds, the 500X won't break your back, either - just what you want when you're heading out with a ton of photography gear to begin with!

Of course, this unit is compatible with plenty of other Goal Zero products, so you can develop an entire ecosystem of power collection and distribution for yourself or your favorite photographer this holiday season!

Learn more about the Goal Zero Yeti 500X Portable Power Station & Solar Panel

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: RØDECaster Pro II

If you're shopping for a videography enthusiast this holiday season, giving them high-quality audio production capabilities will be a welcome gift. The RØDECaster Pro II is what I use in my studio for audio production, and I couldn't be happier with its ease of use, features, and functionality.

This bad boy is a versatile and powerful audio production console. It emerges as an exceptional gift option for those looking to elevate their audio quality, simplify their workflow, and unlock creative possibilities within a reasonable budget - just as it's done for me! Whether you're shopping for a photographer who occasionally dabbles in video or a seasoned videographer, this compact powerhouse can drastically improve their production quality.

The RØDECaster Pro II has been meticulously designed to cater to the diverse needs of content creators, streamers, podcasters, musicians, and more. It combines a host of revolutionary features with superior sound quality, intuitive usability, and endless customization options, making it a one-stop solution for anyone looking to record exceptional audio content effortlessly.

One of the standout features of the RØDECaster Pro II is its ability to consolidate all the essential elements of a professional audio setup into a single, user-friendly console. This means that photographers and videographers can set up and record high-quality audio content within seconds. The 5.5-inch high-definition touchscreen, complete with haptic feedback, tactile rotary encoder, and bright RGB color-coding, simplifies the navigation process, ensuring that even newcomers to audio production can get started quickly.

The RØDECaster Pro II also comes pre-loaded with useful presets and an intuitive VoxLab processing editor, making it effortless to capture professional-grade audio. From configuring microphone channels to programming SMART pads, every feature is designed to enhance creativity. This ease of use ensures that you can focus on your content, not the technicalities.

With four studio-grade Neutrik combo inputs and ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamps, the RØDECaster Pro II delivers unparalleled clarity and transparency, regardless of the microphone or instrument you're using. These preamps eliminate the need for external boosters or processors, even for demanding dynamic microphones. The RØDECaster Pro II certainly provides a clean and transparent audio canvas that allows you to shape and enhance your sound with onboard processing and effects.

To further enhance audio quality, the RØDECaster Pro II features studio-quality signal processing powered by APHEX, a respected name in pro audio. The onboard suite includes emulations of classic hardware units, such as the Aural Exciter for adding brilliance, Big Bottom for depth, and the legendary Compellor master compressor/leveler for that final touch. Additional features like a de-esser, noise gate, high-pass filter, and equalizer offer comprehensive sound-shaping tools to refine your recordings.

The RØDECaster Pro II offers extensive connectivity options, too, expanding creative horizons and streamlining the workflow for your loved one. Four Neutrik combo inputs can accommodate microphones, line-level sources, and instruments, allowing you to record anything from a single microphone to complex multitracked audio. Advanced Bluetooth capabilities enable high-quality phone call integration, audio streaming, and wireless monitoring.

Moreover, dual USB-C interfaces support two simultaneous computer or mobile device connections, perfect for remote podcasting or intricate streaming setups. You can record in stereo or multitrack to various storage options, including microSD cards, USB devices, or directly to a computer. Additionally, Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections facilitate firmware updates, software integrations, and hardware connectivity.

Whether your loved one is recording interviews, podcasts, or video content, the RØDECaster Pro II will undoubtedly take their production quality to the next level, making it a gift that keeps on giving!

Learn more about the RØDECaster Pro II

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: GVM YU150R PRO LED Video Light Board RGB & Bi-Color Studio Light

If the photographer on your holiday shopping list wants to really improve their lighting situation, the industrial-grade GVM YU150R full-color panel light is precisely what they need to do so.

This five-color light source (RGB+WY) offers a CRI and TLCI of 97+ with beautifully accurate colors, natural-looking lighting, and impressive shooting effects that result in a higher level of production value for photography and videography.

This light has a variety of features that give it professional-level performance. For example, it has four selectable dimming curves - exponential, S-curve, linear, and logarithmic - that allow you to meet specific technical requirements of applications like entertainment production or TV news.

Moreover, the GVM YU150R offers a brightness range from 0.1-100 percent that’s adjustable within 0.1 percent accuracy. This fine level of control results in the light offering ultra-smooth dimming and more accurate colors during the dimming process.

Speaking of fine levels of control, this light is equipped with smartphone compatibility. On the one hand, you can use the accompanying app to make adjustments to color temperature and intensity. On the other hand, you can control this light and any other GVM products that are compatible with Bluetooth 5.0 mesh networking.

In other words, this light makes it as easy as possible to get the precise look and feel that’s needed for a photo or video shoot - all from the palm of your hand!

An intriguing feature of the GVM YU150R is that it offers a unique way of adjusting color temperature and brightness. Unlike conventional bi-color panel lights that use many different lamp beads for these processes, the YU150R uses an algorithm to make these adjustments. The result of this is that you get more consistent and accurate colors and constant brightness. With a maximum output of 150 watts, it also offers plenty of brightness!

Other features of this light include:

• HSI mode for adjusting hue, saturation, and light intensity with ultra-fine accuracy
• Gel color paper mode, which gives you access to ROSCO and LEE paper libraries
• Eight white light effects, including breathing light, CCT cycle, and candle
• 8-bit and 16-bit DMX control
• Active cooling system featuring dual fans

This panel light offers far more amenities and features, too. For example, you can use CT mode for making accurate color adjustments from 2000-10000K. You can also use RGB color more to dial in a specific color - one of millions available - and use the light matching mode to choose from 12 light source types for the perfect look for photos and videos.

Truly, this panel light is the gift that keeps on giving. It’s lightweight and portable, ruggedly built, easy to use, and offers a host of features that will help improve the quality of photos and videos your loved one creates. What better gift can you give than that?!

Learn more about the GVM YU150R PRO LED Video Light Board RGB & Bi-Color Studio Light

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: f-stop Shinn Adventure and Cine Backpack

F-stop certainly excels in crafting exceptional bags - that's undeniable. While a camera backpack priced at $700 may initially strike you as exorbitant, this is one of those situations where your investment truly matches the quality you receive.

Furthermore, when you're entrusted with safeguarding thousands of dollars worth of photography equipment, a robust and protective bag becomes a necessity. The f-stop Shinn unquestionably fulfills this requirement!

At an enormous 80 liters, this bag offers an abundance of space, allowing you to accommodate an extensive camera setup or a cine rig. Alternatively, it offers the flexibility to carry multiple DSLR or mirrorless systems simultaneously.

The bag's exterior is constructed from f-stop's own DuraDiamond material, renowned for its remarkable strength, featherlight weight, and resistance to adverse weather conditions.

Given the substantial weight you may be carrying, it's imperative to have a dependable weight distribution system, and the Shinn delivers on this front with its BLOOM foam shoulder straps and hip belt. Personally, I can attest to the exceptional comfort provided by these shoulder straps and hip belts as my f-stop Tilopa employs a similar setup, making it one of the most comfortable configurations I've ever encountered.

In addition to the BLOOM foam straps and belt, the Shinn incorporates an aluminum frame that effectively transfers the bag's weight to your hips - precisely where you want it. A combination of plastic and T6 aluminum hardware further reinforces critical components of the suspension system.

Inside, the bag is generously equipped with organizational and storage features, ensuring that small items such as cords, memory cards, and batteries remain neatly organized and secure.

To keep your camera gear in order, you can opt for a Cine Master Camera Bag Insert or a Pro XL camera insert. These inserts play a pivotal role in safeguarding your equipment, keeping it snugly nestled in a cushioned compartment to prevent any potential damage. Should you venture on a trip sans your camera gear, simply remove the inserts, and you'll have a spacious bag ready to accommodate all your adventure essentials.

Over the years, I've had the pleasure of using several f-stop bags, each one seemingly surpassing the previous in quality and functionality. These experts truly understand the art of crafting a bag, from utilizing weather-resistant zippers to offering multiple access points and developing the finest carrying system available.

If you're eager to impress the photographer in your life, the f-stop Shinn unquestionably stands out as the perfect gift choice!

Learn more about the f-stop Shinn Adventure and Cine Backpack

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: GVM PRO-SD650B 650W Bi-Color Monolight

A bi-color monolight is a standard piece of lighting gear for photographers and videographers alike. Whether you’re shopping for someone that needs to upgrade their existing lighting equipment or needs their first monolight, the GVM PRO-SD650B is a fantastic option!

With 650 watts of output, this light will shed beautiful light on virtually any scene. In fact, the PRO-SD650B is an industrial-grade film and television light that will support all sorts of photography and videography endeavors for beginners, enthusiasts, and professionals alike.

As you’d expect from GVM, this light offers clean, crisp, accurate lighting with a CRI and TLCI of 97+. The light can be adjusted from a warm-toned 2700K up to a cool 6800K to suit specific lighting needs. Speaking of which, GVM has incorporated several other features that allow for quick, simple lighting adjustments to tailor the light output:

• 12 lighting scenes - like candle, TV, and strobe - for producing visually stimulating results
  
• 12 light source matching modes to minimize lighting adjustment time
• Thousand-step dimming accuracy from 1-100 percent 

The dimming accuracy of this light is especially impressive. Not only does it provide full dimming capabilities, but it’s also extremely accurate - to one percent! With such fine control over the dimming process, your loved one can reap the benefits of more accurate color and improved light intensity.

This GVM light has another handy feature up its sleeve - smartphone control. By using the accompanying smartphone app, your loved one can turn their iOS or Android device into a light-controlling machine. The app offers basic features like turning the light on and off, as well as advanced controls like adjusting the color temperature, dimming curve, and lighting effects.

Additionally, this light has Bluetooth mesh networking support, meaning that when it’s used with other GVM lights with mesh support, your loved one can control them all from their phone. In terms of convenience and functionality, it doesn’t get any better than that!

The build quality of this light is next level as well…

The light is made from aluminum alloy, which is durable yet lightweight. On the one hand, the light will stand up to the rigors of use in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings. On the other hand, the aluminum construction, rear handle, and bottom legs make the light easy to maneuver from one location to the next.

And when your loved one is on location, they can trust this light to perform, even for long periods of time, thanks to its built-in active cooling system. Lights like this can put out a tremendous amount of heat, so built-in fans help the PRO-SD650B stay cool to prevent overheating.

With additional features like DMX control, a Bowens mount, and a V-mount that can be used with an external supply box and V-mount battery, this light offers everything your loved one needs to improve the quality of illumination for their projects.

Best of all, when you give this light as a gift, you give something that your loved one can use and enjoy for years and years to come!

Learn more about the GVM PRO-SD650B 650W Bi-Color Monolight

Vanguard Alta Fly 58T Backpack & Alta Pro 2+ 263AB 100 Tripod

Every photographer has to hit the road now and again, so a high-quality backpack and a capable tripod are two things that are likely on your loved one's holiday wish list.

I've used Vanguard products for years, and appreciate their build quality, durability, and innovation. The low price point of Vanguard gear is a nice touch, too. That's why you can give TWO gifts for the price of one!

First up is the Alta Fly 58T bag...

With an overall size of 13.6" x 11" x 23.25", the Alta Fly 58T is just the right size to use as a carry-on bag. And at 10.5 pounds (with 27 liters of space that can fit 33 pounds of gear), you can still carry all the necessities and do so in a compact bag.

The bag has a four-wheel trolley system for making your trips from one concourse to the next a breeze. Of course, there are tuck-away backpack straps as well, so you can carry it as a backpack, if desired.

Vanguard has incorporated plenty of protection for your gear, too - double security buckles, a three-point security system, loads of padding, and a total rain coverage cover as well.

Add in numerous pockets, connectors, and organizers, and you have the makings of a bag that will get your gear from Point A to Point B safely!

The other component of this holiday gift idea is the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB 100 Tripod...

This particular version is aluminum and comes with the Vanguard BH-100 ball head. The ball head offers ergonomic friction control, a quick-release arca-type system, and dual bubble levels. It also offers fluid 360-degree panning for those occasions when you want to photograph moving subjects.

The tripod is further equipped with a canopy suspension loop, which allows you to add a counterbalance weight for improved stability, and Alta Link, a 3/8 thread connection that accommodates accessories like arms and reflectors.

One of the best features of this tripod, though, is the multi-angle center column or MACC. The MACC allows you to frame up shots quickly and easily, from low-angle to high-angle and points in between.

When folded down, the tripod is about 29 inches long, but it extends to more than 68 inches for snapping photos of all kinds. The tripod weighs about five pounds but accommodates more than 15 pounds of gear. It's an ideal companion for the photographer on your holiday shopping list!

Learn more about the Vanguard Alta Fly 58T Backpack & Alta Pro 2+ 263AB 100 Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Pre-Owned Sony Alpha a6300 

An excellent holiday gift suggestion for the photographer you have in mind is a Sony camera. Opting for a previously owned camera allows you to enjoy significant cost savings while still presenting an impressive gift this festive season.

The Sony a6300 boasts a plethora of features, such as a 24.2-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor, a BIONZ X image processor, 4K video recording at 30p, HD video at 1080p/120, and a rapid continuous shooting capability at 11fps.

To enhance its allure, the a6300 boasts a remarkable 425-point autofocus system with tracking AF, delivering exceptional image quality. All of this is packaged in a compact, lightweight body, making it an ideal gift for photographers seeking a capable yet highly portable camera.

Moreover, with the a6300, you're bestowing a gift that combines a small yet powerful camera with outstanding photographic and video capabilities, effortlessly fitting into a camera bag with plenty of space to spare.

It's worth noting that this camera is compatible with a wide range of lenses, providing an opportunity to expand your gift-giving. You could potentially discover a high-quality pre-owned E-mount lens to complement the package.

Whether the photographer on your list specializes in capturing people, architecture, landscapes, wildlife, or anything in between, this camera is sure to be a valued addition to their camera gear collection!

Learn more about the Sony a6300

GIfts for Photographers Under $1,000: GVM YU200R Led Video Lights Panel RGB and Bi-Color Studio Light

When buying lighting for the photographer or videographer on your holiday shopping list, you want to give them something that’s highly functional, easy to use, and puts out beautiful light.

And while you’d think most lights fall into these categories, nothing could be further from the truth! Not all lights are all that user-friendly or functional, and not all lights match the same level of lighting quality.

Make things easy on yourself this holiday season by investing in the GVM YU200R studio light for your loved one!

What’s so nice about this light is its versatility. Your loved one can use it indoors and out, for portrait or landscape photography, video work, streaming videos, and much more.

The compact design of the light - it’s just 14.6 x 11.6 inches in size - makes it easily portable from one location to the next. Moreover, its compact design won’t overtake the shoot. Instead, your loved one can quickly set up the light, get reliable performance, and do so without worrying about lugging around a big, heavy, bulky light.

The quality of light from the YU200R is top-notch, with a CRI and TLCI of 97+. Additionally, it offers stepless RGB color control from 0 to 360 degrees, consistent brightness throughout its color temperature range (2700-7500K), and a wide beam angle of 180 degrees.

Beyond that, GVM has incorporated seven lighting modes that enable quick and easy customization. These modes include the following:

• CCT Mode for adjusting white light color temperature
• HSI Mode for adjusting hue, saturation, and light intensity for output of up to 36 million colors
• RGB Mode for adjusting red, green, and blue light for a combination of 1.6 x 1010 colors
• Gel Color Paper Mode, which includes ROSCO and LEE profiles with 30 numbered color paper libraries each
• Light Matching Mode for matching the light output to any of 12 light source types
• White Light Mode for choosing between eight white light effects, including TV, explosion, and CCT cycle, among others
• Color Light Mode for choosing between four color effects, including police car, di bar, party, and color cycle

Additionally, this light offers a beautifully smooth and even beam field thanks to its true-tone, wide-beam SMD LED and diffuser plates. This type of lighting is a perfect addition to many kinds of photo and video shoots.

The built-in DMX-512 interface is another noteworthy feature that enables 8-bit and 16-bit control and integration into complex studio installations. The built-in support for Bluetooth 5.0 mesh networking and an accompanying smartphone app for iOS and Android devices give your loved one further capabilities for controlling this and other GVM lights quickly and conveniently from their device.

Of course, the precise dimming control of the YU200R is a prime feature, too. You can adjust the brightness from 0.1 percent to 100 percent and do so with 0.1 percent accuracy. As a result, this light offers an incredibly smooth dimming process while also ensuring more accurate colors.

This light also includes four individual dimming curves (logarithmic, S-curves, linear, and exponential) that allows photographers and videographers to precisely meet the technical requirements of other studio devices.

Add in an active cooling system to improve performance, an ultra-quiet design, and a robust all-aluminum build, and you have the makings of an impressive light - and an impressive holiday gift!

Learn more about the GVM YU200R Led Video Lights Panel RGB and Bi-Color Studio Light

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition

Add a little fun to your favorite photographer's photoshoots with the Insta360 ONE RS!

This little camera offers gorgeous 6K 360-degree video capabilities  as well as 21-megapixel 360-degree photos. The camera seamlessly stitches the 360 stills together for a breathtaking view of the subject that's impossible to get with a traditional camera.

These 360-degree images and videos are possible due to the dual one-inch sensors. Both sensors provide unparalleled dynamic range and excellent low-light performance, too.

Other features include:

• PureShot HDR for wider dynamic range
• FlowState Stabilization for beautifully smooth images and videos
• 360 Horizon lock to ensure images and videos are level

The camera comes with a mounting bracket, a vertical battery case, a lens cap, and more!

Learn more about the Insta360 ONE RS

Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000: Pre-Owned Canon EOS RP

Full frame cameras need not be bulky, and they need not break the bank either! The Canon EOS RP emerges as an ideal holiday season gift choice due to its remarkable performance packed into a compact form. Furthermore, opting for a pre-owned camera opens up budgetary flexibility, allowing you to allocate additional gifts for the photographer on your list.

The EOS RP may be an entry-level full frame camera, but it certainly doesn't skimp on features. It comes equipped with:

• A 26.2-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
• A DIGIC 8 image processor
• Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus
• A built-in EVF boasting 2.36 million dots of resolution and touch capabilities

Being a full frame camera, it excels in low-light shooting scenarios. What sets it apart is its status as one of the most compact and lightweight full frame mirrorless cameras available, occupying minimal space in your bag and ensuring effortless portability.

As mentioned earlier, choosing a pre-owned Canon EOS RP grants you financial flexibility for purchasing supplementary items. When shopping at MPB, you can rest easy knowing that you're acquiring a quality used camera, too.

MPB conducts thorough inspections and assigns grades to each camera in their inventory, providing transparent information about the item's condition on the listing page. This ensures you know exactly what to anticipate when the camera arrives at your doorstep. In the rare event that you change your mind about the camera, you can easily return it within the seven-day return window.

Moreover, MPB offers long-term support, with most of their cameras backed by a six-month warranty, offering peace of mind for your investment. Not bad, right?!

Learn more about the Canon EOS RP

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^{Photo by AsiaVision via iStock}

With a $500 budget, there are tons of options for getting your loved one an ideal photography gift.

A used camera perhaps? Or maybe an awesome camera bag? Maybe a beautiful canvas print or GoPro?

The list below includes all these options - and many more - to consider for your 2022 holiday gift-giving!

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: CanvasPrints.com Canvas Print

I don’t know about you, but I find that there are two common problems when searching for gifts for my loved ones. First, I have a lot of people in my life that are difficult to shop for. And second, it can be difficult to find gifts that have long-term utility.

I think I’ve found a solution for both problems, though…

This year, I’m giving canvas prints to many of the people on my holiday shopping list. Why? Well, it’s easy! Even the most difficult of people to shop for enjoy a good photo. What’s more, the chances are high that they have wall space to put a printed photo.

On top of that, a canvas print is something that can be enjoyed for years - decades, really - to come. It isn’t a one-and-done gift that offers flash-in-the-pan excitement during the holidays, then finds its way into a closet somewhere. 

Instead, by giving someone a gorgeous photo that’s been hand-crafted just for them, you can give them the gift of time - time to enjoy the print each and every day.

So, the question is, where do you get a good canvas print?

Earlier this year, I ordered a canvas print from CanvasPrints.com. It was my first such order, so I wasn’t completely sure what to expect.

Well, what I got in the mail was a superb canvas print!

As I shared in this post, the canvas I got from CanvasPrints.com ticks all the boxes in terms of quality:

• The printing process was flawless, with no ink smudges or stains.
• The high-quality canvas is tightly wrapped around the frame, with no waves or puckering.
• The frame is well-made with square corners and a center support to ensure it stays square.
• The canvas is attached to the frame with plenty of staples to further ensure the canvas remains tight.

Additionally, I like that CanvasPrints.com uses a wire hanger on the back rather than the more typical sawtooth hanger. I find that sawtooth hangers are often not attached to the frame in the center (and often aren’t level, either), which obviously complicates hanging the print level. With a wire hanger, there’s no concern there!

In other words, my first experience with CanvasPrints.com could not have gone better. As a result of that, they’ve earned my business for additional prints for myself and for my loved ones this holiday season. You should entrust them to create a beautiful print of your images as well!

I should note that the materials used to create these prints are American-made and of the utmost quality to ensure the print that arrives at your door looks incredible. If something goes awry, no worries - CanvasPrints.com offers a 100-percent money-back guarantee with your print.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your holiday shopping done, get a fantastic gift that keeps on giving, and give the gift of a special moment in time with a CanvasPrints.com print!

Learn more about CanvasPrints.com

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: f-stop Tilopa 50L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Camera Backpack

I'll tell you right now that this bag isn't just one of my favorite items on this list. It's one of my favorite pieces of photography gear of all time. I mean, it's on my 2021 list of the best camera bags for a reason. And not to spoil the party, but it'll be on my 2022 list of the best camera bags as well.

Let's start on the outside of the bag...

This version of the Tilopa, which was released last year, is constructed of DuraDiamond 315D HT nylon ripstop (an f-stop proprietary product) to give it supreme durability. Add in C0 DWR coating and a TPU layer that gives the fabric excellent waterproofing and added strength as well.

There's heavy-duty stitching with industrial-bonded thread, a 500mm Polyurethane coating, and heavy-gauge weatherproof zippers. The 20-year warranty speaks to the durability and impeccable construction of the bag.

You can access the bag from every side, making quick work of grabbing your camera for a shot. There's also external side pockets for keeping small items. All told, this bag offers 50 liters of storage space, so, really, you can take just about all the photography gear you have if need be! You can carry stuff on the outside of the bag, too, thanks to a variety of mounting options:

• 22 Gatekeeper attachment points (up from 10 on the previous version)
• 4 detachable, quick-release, lockable Gatekeeper straps
• Hypalon ski strap loops
• Ice axe loops
• Bungee loops (that can be released with a single hand)
• Angled MOLLE webbing on the hip belt

Even if the pack is fully loaded, the carrying experience is so comfortable. The internal metal frame helps stabilize the load and shift the weight of the bag to your hips. Of course, the BLOOM EVA padded hip belt (which is contoured for comfort) helps to further ease the pressure of carrying a heavy load.

The shoulder straps are also made of contoured BLOOM EVA, and are hands-down the most comfortable shoulder straps I've ever used.

Inside, the bag is lined with 700 Nylon Ripstop fabric. The main compartment holds 39 liters of gear while the various smaller pockets on the top, bottom, and sides round out the remaining 11 liters of storage space. Get a complete tour of this bag in the video below:

Of course, the star of the interior of this bag is the excellent line of ICUs from f-stop. The Tilopa accommodates small, medium, and large ICUs to give you a complete interior organization system for your gear. You can even mix and match smaller ICUs to create a truly bespoke storage space.

And since the ICUs are removable, you can adjust how you use them from one trip to the next. Honestly, this bag would be worth the price of admission even if it wasn't compatible with ICUs. Their availability is simply icing on the cake!

I've had several Tilopa bags over the years, and each time I didn't think f-stop could improve it. Yet, each time, f-stop proves me wrong!

Everything about this bag is done so, so well, from the construction to the materials to the way it fits your body. I absolutely love this bag, and the photographer on your holiday shopping list is sure to love it as well.

Learn more about the f-stop Tilopa 50L DuraDiamond Travel and Adventure Backpack

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: reMarkable 2

There are plenty of photographers that enjoy writing notes, brainstorming, and otherwise keeping their thoughts organized by using paper notebooks. I'm certainly one of those people.

But at some point, it becomes a little impractical to use paper notebooks, both because of the environmental impact and because of the space you need to store dozens of notebooks in your studio or office.

I, for one, had dozens of Moleskine notebooks floating around my office and it simply became overwhelming trying to keep them organized. So, I switched to paper-like writing on the reMarkable tablet a few years ago. The reMarkable 2 has since been released, and it's even better than the first!

The reMarkable 2 is super thin, lightweight, and has a great feel to it. The marker also feels great in your hands and gives you that tactile experience of writing with an actual pen and paper. I have no doubt that was a difficult thing to achieve, but boy, did the mad scientists at reMarkable figure it out!

The tablet has a 1.2 GHz dual-core ARM processor, 1GB of LPDDR3 SDRAM, 8GH of internal storage (that can accommodate around 100,000 pages of notes), and a marker with tilt-detection capabilities, 4,096 levels of pressure, and a high-friction tip. The marker doesn't require charging, setup, or pairing, either!

Since the tablet has a Linux-based Codex that's optimized for e-paper applications, there is ultra-low latency. You really do get the feeling that you're writing on paper!

You also get 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi, USB-C connectivity, and an accessory port, in addition to a 3000mAH battery that is rechargeable via USB-C and will last up to two weeks on a single charge.

It has a beautiful screen, too. The second-generation CANVAS display gives you 10.3-inches of diagonal viewing space with 1872 x 1404 resolution at 226 DPI. Add multi-point capacitive touch, a gorgeous monochrome display, and a writing latency of just 21 milliseconds to the list.

I've had my reMarkable 2 for over a year now and have enjoyed it profusely. You can read more about my experience with it in this review.

Learn more about the reMarkable 2

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Pre-Owned Sony a6000

The Sony a6000 is an oldie, but it's definitely a goodie.

Released in 2014, the a6000 quickly became one of the most popular mirrorless cameras ever made. In fact, you can still buy a brand-new a6000 - they're still that popular!

But with a budget of $500, a new a6000 is out of reach. But a quality pre-owned a6000 is well within your budget if you shop at MPB.

The a6000 has a 24.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that's paired with a BIONZ X image processor. This combination results in a superb stills and video camera for beginner and enthusiast photographers and videographers.

Though the camera lacks modern amenities like a touchscreen LCD, in-body image stabilization, and 4K video, it has a host of other features that make it a very useful camera, even so long after its release. For example, the a6000 comes with:

• ISO range: 100-25,600 (expandable to 51,200)
• 11 fps burst shooting
• 179 phase-detection autofocus points and 25 contrast-detection autofocus points
• 1080 video at up to 60p

All of this is wrapped in a tiny body that weighs just 12 ounces without a lens or battery.

The a6000 uses Sony E-mount lenses, so there is a wealth of native Sony glass available as well as a host of third-party E-mount lenses:

• Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS
• Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary - Sony E Fit
• Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS
• Sigma 35 mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary - Sony E Fit
• Sony E 10-18mm f/4 OSS

With such a wide selection of glass, this camera can be used for all sorts of pursuits, from portraiture to sports photography to landscapes. With a battery life of 360 shots, you can shoot for a good, long while, too!

If you want to give someone a highly capable, yet inexpensive camera, this is it! Buy with confidence at MPB, which offers a six-month warranty and a seven-day return window. Each a6000 has been thoroughly graded, so you know exactly what to expect when the camera arrives at your door.

Learn more about the Sony a6000

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Coravin Timeless Six+

Over the years, I've gotten a lot of requests to add lifestyle items to these gift guides. I'm finally obliging!

I'm not a huge wine drinker, but I'll have a glass now and then while I'm editing photos or with dinner after a long day of work. Occasionally, I'll share wine with clients, too.

When you don't drink wine all that often, the problem is that you hesitate to open bottles for fear that they'll go bad. My old cork system only extended the life of the bottle for a few days after it was opened, so I wasted tons of wine. Not anymore!

The Coravin Timeless Six+ system is the precise holiday gift for folks like me that enjoy wine but need to preserve it for long periods of time.

When wine is bottled, argon gas is inserted to the bottle to preserve the wine. The problem with many cork systems is that the argon gas escapes, leading to ruined wine.

But the Coravin system has an argon capsule that you pop in and a needle that inserts directly into the cork. Then, you hit a button and the bottle becomes pressurized as new argon gas is inserted into the bottle. As the argon gas is inserted, wine comes out, allowing you to pour the perfect glass without losing the argon inside the bottle. Then simply remove the needle and the cork seals back up without losing pressure.

It's an ingenious system, and like I said, it allows me to preserve wine for weeks or even years now. Not only that, I can start buying better wine because I won't fear that it'll go to waste. It's a win-win!

Learn more about the Coravin Timeless Six+

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Cutco 6-Piece Kitchen Tool Set With Holder

I know a kitchen set might not immediately come to mind as something to give a photographer, but hear me out...

Just like photographers want to have the appropriate gear for taking photos, you need the appropriate gear for cooking up meals. A great kitchen set like this one is just what the doctor ordered!

I love photography and I love cooking, so having a kitchen set like this helps me accomplish my cooking goals for dinner after a long day working in the photography space.

As you’ve probably guessed, this set exudes the high quality of Cutco products.

There are six pieces in the set, including:

• A slotted turner
• A basting spoon
• A slotted spoon
• A ladle
• A mix-stir
• A potato masher

The set also includes a gorgeous oak holder that’s available in a cherry or honey finish.

Each accessory in this set has a stainless steel head and a highly-engineered thermo-resin handle that’s available in a classic or pearl finish.

Given the materials used and the Cutco commitment to quality, you can bet that these tools will last for years and years, whether they’re used at home in the kitchen or out in the wilds while you’re camping.

Clearly, this set of tools will help you create all sorts of meals, from mashed potatoes to soups and stews to pancakes and everything in between. And having well-made kitchen tools will make the process of whipping up those meals so much more enjoyable! You can focus more on what you’re making and less on finding the right accessory to make it.

Even if the person on your holiday shopping list isn’t much of a chef, they can still get a lot of use out of this six-piece set. It can be used for simple meals at home or meal prep before a photography trip.

If you want to give a gift that offers decades of reliable service, then Cutco has what you need!

Learn more about the Cutco 6-Piece Kitchen Tool Set with Holder

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Holdfast Sightseer Camera and Lens Modular System

One of the things that gets in the way of taking great photos is not being able to carry all the gear that you need in comfort. Additionally, problems arise when you aren’t able to easily access your gear when you need it.

The Holdfast Sightseer solves both of those problems for the photography lover on your shopping list this holiday season.

The Sightseer holds a crazy amount of gear for a small bag. That includes up to a 13-inch laptop, a camera with lens attached, two additional lenses, and all the needed accessories inside the bag.

But because it’s a modular system, you can add even more gear by adding Lens Pouches that attach to the exterior of the bag (or you can carry them on the Holdfast MoneyMaker or even on your own belt). That means that the big zoom lens that won’t fit in the bag can be carried safely in a padded Lens Pouch attached to the outside.

Since the Sightseer is a truly modular system, you can mix and match lens pouches as you need to carry as much or as little gear as the situation calls for. What’s more, this system can grow with you as you get more gear - start out lean and mean with just the Sightseer bag, and as more lenses are accumulated, add Lens Pouches as needed.

Better still, because your gear is easily accessible, you don’t have to worry about missing a shot.

It’s easy to carry, too. Just use the two sets of carrying handles, the shoulder strap, or attach it to the Holdfast MoneyMaker dual camera strap for a super easy way to get your gear from point A to point B.

These bags look amazing, too, with a waxed canvas and American Bison leather exterior and an Aztec flannel fleece interior. In other words, the Sightseer is the complete package!

Learn more about the Holdfast Sightseer

Gifts for Photographers Under $500:  Vanguard VEO 3+ 263CB 160S Carbon Fiber Tripod

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A good, solid tripod is a must-have for photographers and videographers. But not all tripods are made alike.

Certainly, there’s a difference in design, functionality, and build quality. There’s also significant differences in the specs and features of available tripods.

For my money, one of the best representations of these criteria is the Vanguard VEO 3+ 263CB 160S Carbon Fiber Tripod.

For starters, this is an all-in-one tripod kit, so you can give a gift with everything your loved one needs to jumpstart their photography or videography projects.

The tripod has a Multi-Angle Central Column that moves from 0 degrees to 180 degrees in various vertical and horizontal positions. This enables photographers and videographers to get the precise angle of view to fulfill their creative vision.

Also included with this tripod are legs with three adjustable angles of 23 degrees, 50 degrees, and 80 degrees for quick setup. Vanguard has equipped the tripod with non-slip all-weather grips on two legs for easier maneuvering in less-than-ideal weather. The Vanguard BH-160S dual-axis ball head is part of the kit, too.

Of course, being a Vanguard tripod means this bad boy has plenty of other features.

For example, one leg converts to a monopod for lean-and-mean shooting situations. There’s spiked feet on each leg, too, to give the tripod a stable base on uneven terrain. Vanguard’s superb quick-twist leg locks are yet another feature that makes this tripod such a treat to use out in the field.

In other words, this isn’t just any old tripod…

Vanguard’s long-standing reputation for designing and building quality gear is on full display with the VEO3+. You get a rock-solid carbon fiber tripod, tons of accessories, and loads of features in one killer unit.

And with a price that’s well below the $500 mark, it’s one of the most affordable options on this list!

Learn more about the Vanguard VEO 3+ 263CB 160S Carbon Fiber Tripod

Gifts for Photographers under $500: Acratech GP-SS Ball Head

The Acratech GP has been my primary ball head for over a decade. It's proven its longevity with a rugged design that's tough enough to stand up to the rigors of daily use.

The GP-SS is built like a tank, but doesn't behave like one. By that, I mean that even though it can withstand a bomb blast (figuratively speaking, of course!) it offers super fine and delicate control that gives you the smooth, precise adjustments you demand.

Back in the day when I used big, heavy gear like my Nikon D850, an L-bracket, and a 70-200mm lens, I marveled at the Acratech GP's ability to maintain its precise movements. Of course, now that I've got a much lighter kit in the Canon EOS R5 and R6, the GP-SS ball head is more than enough to handle the load.

Basic Specs:

• Compatible with many quick-release plates
• 25-pound load capacity
• Quick-release lever
• Fits all standard tripods

So, this is a fine choice for a gift for your loved one who needs a strong, stable, and functional base for their imaging and video work!

Learn more about the Acratech GP-SS ball head

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Pre-Owned Canon EOS M50

As noted earlier, a pre-owned camera is an ideal gift for a photographer because it saves you money and gives them a like-new gift that serves every purpose and function that the same brand-new camera would provide.

In this case, the Canon EOS M50 is a nice option for a beginner photographer's first camera or a more advanced photographer that needs a second camera body.

The M50 sports a 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that's paired with Canon's DIGIC 8 processor. If the photographer on your list likes to photograph wildlife or action, the 10 fps burst shooting rate will be a nice bonus.

This camera boasts a host of other features, too.

For example, it has a native ISO range of 100-25,600 that's expandable to 51,200 for shooting in low-light situations. It has a host of video capabilities as well, including UHD 4K video at 24fps, full HD video at 60fps, and 720p video at 120fps for slow-motion video capture.

For still imagery, the M50 has Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which helps generate accurate, sharp images thanks to quick autofocus performance. This feature also works for shooting video.

Add in 5-axis image stabilization to the mix and you have the makings of a well-featured camera for still photography and videography use! And with a pre-owned price tag of less than $500, it won't break the bank, either!

Remember, buying pre-owned gear at MPB is a smooth process backed by a generous warranty and return policy. You can even trade in your old gear to offset the cost of giving an M50 as a gift!

Learn more about the Canon EOS M50

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: GoPro Hero 11 Black

The GoPro Hero 11 Black retains a lot of features of the Hero 10 Black, but offers some significant improvements that make it a perfect holiday gift idea for the photographer on your list.

The Hero 11 Black shares the same form factor as the Hero 10 (and Hero 9), so if your loved one has one of these cameras and has invested in accessories for it, those accessories will still work with the Hero 11 Black.

However, despite the exterior being the same, lots has changed under the hood...

The biggest change is the sensor, which is now at 27 megapixels. The Hero 11 Black can record 10-bit color video as well.

Speaking of video capabilities, video can be captured at 5.3k at up to 60fps. Hypersmooth 5.0 helps stabilize video while the new ultra-wide HyperView offers a bigger 16:9 field of view for shooting videos. You can also shoot vertical videos in 8:7 format.

Other software features include 360-degree horizon lock, Night Effect for nighttime time lapses, and an improved TimeWarp time lapse feature, which now records video at up to 5.3K. You can keep tabs on what you're recording by using the front or rear LCD screens.

Another upgrade in the Hero 11 Black is the new Enduro battery.

According to GoPro, the new battery can extend recording times by up to 38 percent. Add a couple of these batteries to the mix, and you can give your loved one the gift of hours and hours of recording with their new GoPro!

And, as always, the Hero 11 black is ruggedly built to withstand the rigors of shooting in all sorts of environments, even underwater up to 33 feet.

Learn more about the GoPro Hero 11 Black

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: DJI Mini SE

Giving the gift of a drone might seem impossible for under $500, but the DJI Mini SE is way under that threshold at less than $300.00.

This little drone weighs about as much as a smartphone, yet has a 30-minute flight time, a 2.7K camera, the ability to take 12MP photos, and a 3-axis gimbal. It’s also equipped with DJI’s QuickShot functions, including “circle,” “helix,” “rocket,” and “dronie.”

The Mini SE offers upgraded wind resistance as well. It can resist winds from 18 mph up to 23.6 mph. It can also take off at altitudes of 13,100 feet, so whether you're at the beach on a windy day or high in the mountains, this little drone will service you well.

That’s a lot of bang for your buck, especially when you have a budget of $500!

Learn more about the DJI Mini SE

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Nomatic x Peter McKinnon Camera Pack

Nomatic has earned its reputation for crafting beautiful, functional, and durable photography gear. And Peter McKinnon is one of the biggest names in photography. It's a match made in heaven!

The Peter McKinnon Nomatic Camera Pack is a fantastic bag that shows that this partnership is all about the user experience.

As I explain in the video above, this bag looks fantastic, versatile, and feature-rich. Get a load of some of its features:

• Holds 35 liters of gear (and expands to 42 liters)
• Water-resistant
• External straps (so you can carry items like your tripod)
• Removable interior dividers (so you can customize the bag to your needs)
• Easy side access (for quickly grabbing your camera) 
• Comfortable straps (including chest strap and waist belt) for a more comfortable carrying experience
• Space for your clothes too!

You can tell that this bag was designed by a photographer. It is simply fantastic from the standpoints of size, customization, comfort, and ease of use.

This bag is $400, and while that might seem like a lot, when you consider that this is a bag that you’ll have for YEARS, it’s really a long-term investment. Besides, since there's compartments for camera gear and clothing, it's the perfect weekend bag!

Sure, you can buy a cheap bag, but when you are carrying around gear on your back, don’t you want the most comfortable bag you can get?

Learn more about the Nomatic x Peter McKinnon Camera Pack

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Insta360 Link

The Insta360 Link is a webcam, but it's so much more than that. Actually, I like to describe it as what you'd get if a webcam and an action camera had a baby!

The camera comes with a 1/2-inch sensor - which is fantastic for a webcam. But it also comes with a full-on three-axis gimbal for getting ultra-smooth video when you hold the camera in your hand. Speaking of video, it records in 4K at 30p or HD at 60p. Not bad!

When using the camera, its AI-powered motion tracking system ensures you're centered in the frame, which is obviously a handy feature when you're using it as a webcam. Other webcam-related features include "Whiteboard Mode," which crops everything out of the frame except the whiteboard you're using, and "DeskView Mode," which gives viewers a shot of your workspace.

The camera even tilts downward when not in use for added privacy.

Add to the list a ton of other features like gesture control, phase-detection autofocus, a USB-C connection, and HDR mode to help prevent blown-out backgrounds.

That's a lot of features that any photographer would love in a holiday gift!

Learn more about the Insta360 Link

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It's been roughly a month since I picked up my Insta360 One X, and I wanted to give you guys my initial impressions.

Let me first say that I have TONS of video footage that I'm currently editing, so I'll be sharing a final video as well as a more detailed review of this camera in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for that.

For now, though, let me just say that this little guy is nothing short of spectacular. To say that I've been impressed is a huge understatement!

Let's dive into a few features and specs as well as some pros and cons that I've discovered over the last month.

Insta360 One X Design

The camera is oblong, yet compact, and weighs a scant .25 pounds, so you can take it anywhere you like.

The unit has just two buttons, one to power it on and off and another that controls the mode and the shutter.

There is a display on the camera, though it is basic and small given the small size of the camera. That's okay though, because it has a companion app through which you can control what the camera is doing (more on that below).

On one side of the camera is a Micro USB port, on the other is a battery door. On the bottom is a MicroSD slot, and next to that is a 1/4-inch tripod thread.

It's a sleek, modern design that keeps things simple!

Insta360 One X Features

Unlike earlier 360-degree cameras, the Insta360 One X is chock-full of handy features.

For starters, it's a tiny thing that fits nicely in your hand. But don't let its small size fool you - it has a 1/2.3-inch sensor that can take RAW images and film 5.7K video at 30fps and 4K video at 50fps.

Paired with the sensor is a set of two f/2 200-degree lenses, both of which are fisheye. That being the case, their field of view overlaps one another to capture a full 360-degree image.

One of the best features of the One X is its image stabilization system, dubbed "FlowState."

It's a complex system, but the short of it is that is has a six-axis gyroscopic stabilizer that maintains smooth footage as you shoot, no matter how bumpy things get. You can see FlowState in action in the video above 

The system comes loaded with multiple shooting modes, like time-lapse, HDR, and even "Bullet Time," which creates a sequence in which the camera swirls around a subject as it moves (think of Neo dodging bullets in The Matrix).

Other features of note include:

• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
• MicroSD port
• Companion app with onboard editing tools, Live View, and the ability to start and stop recording
• 18-megapixel maximum photo resolution

Additionally, there is a wide range of accessories available for the One X, including housings, mounts, and even a Bullet Time Bundle that includes a monopod.

Insta360 One X Pros & Cons

Let's start with the pros first.

The highway to 360-degree cameras is littered with failed camera after failed camera (Samsung Gear 360, anyone?), so it's not like the bar has been set real high for 360-degree cameras.

Nevertheless, this is hands-down the best of the bunch, and unlike its many predecessors, I think the Insta360 One X has a real chance of becoming the first successful mainstream 360-degree camera. That's a definite pro if you ask me. See some of the potential for working with this camera in the video above by Cinecom.net. 

Additionally, this camera offers excellent resolution, image stabilization that's truly impressive, and as I noted earlier, it's loaded for bear with features.

But for me, the biggest asset of this camera is that it's like having your own cameraman on location with you. It enables you to grab different camera angles and footage that give your videos that multi-camera feel without having multiple cameras.

It's not all sunshine and roses, though.

The One X app (iOS and Android) seems a bit on the cluttered side to me, so streamlining that would be beneficial (i.e., when you open it, it takes you to Insta360's online community instead of the camera settings...that needs to change). The battery life is another feature that's not worth writing home about, but in its defense, the battery life in my GoPro and my Sony a6400 aren't great either.

Other than that, I haven't found anything particularly offputting about this camera. Insta360 has done a fantastic job in developing this thing from a hardware and a software standpoint.

If you're in the market for a fun, innovative camera that will challenge you to be more creative with your photos and videos, this just might be it!

As I said before, I'll have a complete review and video footage in the coming weeks. In the meantime, get more details and pricing information on the Insta360 One X.

 

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^{Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash}

Smartphones have done wonders for photography and made it easily accessible for millions of people the world over. 

And though smartphones aren’t quite to the level of “real” cameras yet, they still have solid cameras and features that make them a great starter camera for new photographers.

The same holds true for shooting video...

In fact, you can shoot, edit, and share video using nothing but your smartphone.

In this tutorial, learn three critical mobile videography tips that will help you elevate the quality of the videos you create.

Editor's Tip: Bring your iPhone videos to life by adding an epic soundtrack! Great videos are about far more than the footage the end-user sees. Instead, with the right songs and sound effects, you can create a video that's truly engaging and memorable. Epidemic Sound is my go-to source for audio because they have an excellent selection and great prices to boot. Step up your video with the right audio today.

Mobile Videography Tip: Stabilize Your Phone 

Photo by Oliver Schwendener on Unsplash 

It’s easy to just pull your phone out of your pocket, hold it at arm's length, and start shooting video. 

But just because it’s easy doesn’t mean that’s the best way to do it! 

Perhaps the easiest way to avoid shaky footage is to get a better grip on your phone. That is, rather than holding the phone at arm’s length, tuck your elbows into your chest.

This subtle move helps you stabilize your arms, which, in turn, stabilizes the camera.

^{photo by Creative-Family  via iStock}

Another option is to use Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), if your phone’s camera has that feature.

If it does not, some newer phones have Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) which can also help minimize the shakiness of videos.

The best option, by far, is to invest in a smartphone gimbal. 

Gimbals use motors or sensors to counteract the action of the phone as you move it. The result is gorgeously cinematic footage that has zero shakiness.

If you aren’t familiar with gimbals, check out the video above by Jeven Dovey to get a quick overview and some recommendations for the best smartphone gimbals.

Learn More:

• Must-Have Gear for New Videographers 
• How to Create Professional-Looking Videos (Without Being a Pro)  

Mobile Videography Tip: Shoot to Edit

  ^{photo by tolgart via iStock}

When the mood strikes to head out and shoot video with your phone, it’s simple enough to just start shooting.

The problem with that approach is that you end up with a bunch of footage that has no real plan behind it. In other words, you need to shoot to edit, or have a good, solid idea of what you want your final product to be before you ever start shooting.

Shooting to edit means taking a few minutes to storyboard what you want the video to look and feel like.

 ^{Photo by James Sutton on Unsplash}

This process should obviously include the subject matter, but also think about the story you wish to tell and how each segment of the story will relate to one another.

Consider things like how you will transition from one segment to the next, music you’d like to use, the types of shots you need (i.e., wide, medium, or close-up footage), and so forth

By having all of those details hammered out in your mind beforehand, you’ll be much more successful in getting the appropriate footage to make your dream a reality.

Learn More: 

• 3 Simple Tips for Shooting Video on Your iPhone 
• Beginner Video Editing Tips 

Mobile Videography Tip: Use an Action Camera

I suppose if we're being technical about it, using an action camera isn't exactly a mobile videography tip.

However, if you're on-the-go with your phone, you might as well have a souped-up action cam to go with it. After all, it's just another means of getting epic videos, right?

And for epic video, it's hard to beat the Insta360 One X. This thing is small, lightweight, and completely badass.

With two f/2 200-degree fisheye lenses, you get true 360-degree footage for fantastic-looking video sequences. Heck, this thing even has a "Bullet Time" setting that allows you to swoop around a subject, just like the cameras did in The Matrix when Neo was dodging bullets on the roof. It's extremely cool, to say the least.

But the Insta360 One X isn't just about flashy software. It's got a 1/2.3-inch sensor capable of shooting 14-megapixel RAW images.

On top of that, you can choose between 5.7K video at 30fps or 4K video at 50fps. There's a companion app for controlling the camera, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and tons of accessories like mounts that you can buy to expand the camera's functionality.

The best part, though, is FlowState, the camera's image stabilization system, which is, in a word, amazing.

Honestly, you can strap this thing to your dog as he runs around, and the video will come out super smooth. See what I mean in the video above.

If you're ready to step up your videography game, an Insta360 One X should be in your camera bag!

Mobile Videography Tip: Editing Video is as Important as Shooting Video

Creating awesome videos with your smartphones doesn’t end when you’ve shot all the footage you need.

An equally important step is putting it all together in a finished product with titles, music, transitions, and other finishing touches.

You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on software to make that happen, either.

In fact, Kizoa has a free iOS app that gets you started with all the features listed above, and much more.

For starters, the app lets you create videos in a variety of formats, including the traditional landscape orientation as well as vertical and square.

Better still, regardless of the format you choose, the Kizoa app gives you the option to add sound effects, 3D effects, slides, different fonts and text effects, and more.

It only take a few minutes to complete a video as well. It’s literally just a few taps of your iPhone screen, and you’re done! 

Something else worth noting is that Kizoa also has a cloud-based editor, so if you’d rather edit your videos on your laptop, you can easily do so.

Speaking of easy, Kizoa helps you get the editing process started with a variety of pre-made templates that allow you to plug and play to make quick work of producing videos.

Best of all, unlike many other video editors, the cloud-based version of Kizoa is under $30 - and that’s a one-time fee for lifetime access.

Like I said before, the process of creating epic smartphone videos isn’t complete until you’ve edited the video. Kizoa makes that a fun and creative process whether you use their free app or the cloud-based platform.

Learn More:

• Top Free or Inexpensive Video Editors 
• Video Composition Tip: What Angles to Shoot at (and Why) 

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^{Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash}

So, you're ready to make the leap from photography to videography...

The question is, what gear do you need to get started?

Thankfully, many DSLR and mirrorless cameras have excellent video capabilities, so a new camera might not be on your list of things to purchase.

But what about other important items for video work?

Here's a few suggestions for building a functional videography kit.

Editor's Tip: Though music isn't technically gear, it's something you definitely need to make the best videos. Adding sound effects and songs to your videos enables you to create a much richer viewing experience that reaches out and grabs people. For the best deals on audio for your videos, check out Epidemic Sound. With a huge library, they have everything you might need to take your videos to the next level with awesome audio.

Don't Neglect Your Video Editor

^{Photo by Christin Hume on Unsplash}

Before I dive into things like cameras and lenses for video, I wanted to address the video editor you use to make your creations.

You obviously want something powerful that offers you a lot of features for making professional-looking videos.

But you likely don't want to spend an arm and a leg that some video editors cost either.

I know plenty of photographers that rely on free software for their videos, but let's be honest - free software generally lacks the tools you need to make truly epic videos.

You don't have to spend a ton of money for a professional video editor though.

I started using Kizoa a few months ago, and I'm never turning back.

It's the ideal combination of power, performance, functionality, and ease of use.

Kizoa is loaded with tons of pre-made templates (including for holidays!), so you can get a head start on making your videos straight away.

What's more, you can add music, transitions, texts, and other effects to give your videos a polished look.

 

From an ease of use standpoint, Kizoa has a free iOS app, so I can create and edit videos right then and there after I record the footage.

On top of that, Kizoa has made it easy to share the videos I create - I can email them, burn them to a DVD, or upload them to social media in a matter of moments.

Kizoa truly is the best of both worlds - it's powerful and affordable, with premium plans starting at just $30.00 per month.

If you're ready to take your videography to the next level, give Kizoa a try!

Learn More:

• Avoid These Common Beginner Videography Mistakes
• Basic Composition Tips for Beginner Videographers

What Camera is Best for Video?

^{Photo by Stephen Kennedy on Unsplash}

Maybe you already have a camera that shoots video.

But if you don't, or if you want to upgrade, what camera is best for video?

The answer, of course, depends on who you ask.

Personally, I'm a huge fan of Sony cameras for video work - like the Sony a7 III, which has 4K shooting capabilities at both 24fps and 30fps.

This camera is small, lightweight, easy to maneuver, and has improved battery life over previous Sony models.

What's more, there's a wide range of lenses you can use with this camera to get different types of shots and effects for your videos.

 

EDITOR'S TIP: NEED A NEW CAMERA BAG FOR ALL YOUR VIDEO GEAR? SHOP FOR GREAT DEALS ON TOP BRANDS.

 

The key here isn't brand - I like Sony, but if you like Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, or some other brand, that's okay! Just be sure you have a camera with interchangeable lenses, and preferably, 4K video capabilities.

I'd be remiss if I didn't give a shoutout to my new favorite camera for video, the Insta360 One X.

I've only had it for a week, but I can already tell you that I have had more fun shooting video with this thing than I have with any other camera in a long time.

Obviously, the video you get from a 360-degree camera is much different than what you get from a traditional camera, and that's part of the appeal of this tiny, handheld rig.

You can hold it in your hand, put it on a tripod or grip, strap it to your dog...you name it. The possibilities for angles of view and different vantage points are endless!

This camera weighs just .25 pounds and is super easy to operate via the companion smartphone app, so there's really no excuse for not always having it with you. Better still, you can do all kinds of killer things with it like HDR, time-lapse, and Bullet Time sequences (like from The Matrix) that results in mind-bending footage.

Helping matters is the Insta360 One X's FlowState image stabilization system.

It's a six-axis (yes, six!) gyroscopic system that does an incredible job of minimizing movement for ultra-smooth video.

Add to that a bevy of accessories you can buy for it, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and built-in shooting modes, and you have the makings of a fun and functional camera.

Seriously, give the Insta360 One X a try - you might find like I did that it becomes your favorite new toy!

Learn More:

• Why I Need a Nikon Z7 (and Why You Need One Too)

A Field Monitor is a Must

If you want to step up your videography game, stop relying on your camera's puny LCD and invest in a high-quality field monitor like the Ikan Saga S7H-V2.

Using a field monitor like this 7-inch rig gives you a big, bright view of what you're shooting so you can perfect the composition, framing, and focus of your video sequences.

This particular model has HDMI and 3G-SDI inputs and outputs and Ultra HD video as well as DCI 4K video.

 

Don't let its large screen size fool you into thinking that this monitor is cumbersome, either.

It's slim and lightweight at just half a pound.

It has a gorgeous high-resolution (1920x1200), color-accurate screen with 1200 NITS of brightness, so it's a perfect companion for outdoor video work.

With software features like 3D LUT support, a histogram, audio meters, DSLR scaling, and more, you have the makings of a must-have item for your videography gear bag!

Top Video Lenses

^{Photo by Courtney Clayton on Unsplash}

Again, the question of what lens is best for video depends on a lot of different factors.

If you're already invested in the Canon ecosystem, then buying a Canon-fit lens is obviously advisable.

What's more, if you already have a 24mm lens, there's no sense in buying a 28mm lens, as the difference in focal length isn't worth the added expense.

When it comes to zooms or primes, both have their merits for video.

A good video kit would include both, actually, perhaps a 24-70mm zoom and a 50mm prime.

What's important to keep in mind is that lenses are the most important gear investment for videography (and for photography, for that matter).

Unlike your camera, which you'll eventually have to replace, you might have your lenses for decades. So, while good lenses (like the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8) can be spendy, they will more than pay for themselves over the long-haul.

Things to Consider When Buying a Video Lens

^{Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash} 

• Is it designed for crop sensor or full frame cameras? Is it compatible with your camera type?
• What type of video do you intend to shoot? Shorter focal lengths - like 35mm - are better-suited for travel videos while longer focal lengths - like 135mm - are best for wildlife videos.
• What is the widest aperture of the lens? If you intend to shoot in low-light situations, getting a lens with a large aperture is best.
• How much does the lens weigh? What is its form factor? Big, bulky lenses aren't ideal for things like travel videos.

Editor's Tip: Not sure what lens to get to make awesome videos? Consult the experts and get the right lens for you.

Video Work Requires a Legit Memory Card

^{Image Credit: djedzura via iStock}

Given the amount of storage required to save all that 4K video footage you'll be taking, you can't pull any punches with your memory cards.

Like with lenses, it's important to invest in quality here. Resist the urge to save a few bucks on off-brand cards and go for the well-established brands like Lexar or SanDisk.

Additionally, it's important to take factors like storage space, read/write speed, and the class of the memory card into account.

If you're not sure what any of that means, give this detailed discussion of memory cards a quick read before dropping money on a card. Doing your due diligence will help save you heartache down the road by avoiding sub-par memory cards.

Learn More:

• Making a Case for the Canon 5D Mark III: It's Still a REALLY Good Camera

Final Thoughts

Buying new gear is a very personal experience. That is, what you need for your video work might not be what I need for mine.

Having said that, there's common items every videographer needs - an interchangeable lens camera, a good set of lenses, and high-quality memory cards among them.

For more insights into the best gear for videographers, have a look at the video above by Matti Haapoja.

He's an experienced videographer that gives some great general tips on filling out your videography kit.

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^{Photo by Taeky_H via Shutterstock}

At the end of 2023, Insta360 debuted its most powerful action camera yet, the Insta360 Ace Pro. It’s a powerful action camera co-designed with engineers from Leica and boasts advanced features such as a large 1/1.3” sensor, 4K/120p video, and AI technology. While the camera itself is impressive, its lineup of compatible Insta360 accessories takes it to a whole new level!

In this Insta360 guide, we’ll share six must-have Insta360 accessories every Insta360 Ace Pro camera owner should have in their camera bag. They include gear for traveling, hiking, biking, driving, skiing, and more. 

So, regardless of your preferred activities, there’s something for you below. Keep reading to find the perfect Insta360 accessories for your adventure needs!  

Check out the video above on our PhotographyTalk YouTube Channel to learn more about the pros and cons of the Insta360 Ace Pro action camera.

Table of Contents

• Octopad
• Must-Have Insta360 Accessories: Third-Person Backpack Mount
• Insta360 Triple Suction Cup Car Mount
• Must-Have Insta360 Accessories: GPS Preview Remote
• Insta360 Chest Strap
• Must-Have Insta360 Accessories" Multi Mount
• More Insta360 Ace Pro Accessories
• Recommended Photography Gear

Octopad

One of our most-used Insta360 Accessories is the one-of-a-kind Octopad. It’s a small, portable, stabilizing solution ideal for action cameras like the Insta360 Ace Pro. Moreover, after years of testing different tripods, we’ve found it’s easier to use and delivers better results than most other mini travel tripods and suction cup supports.

What makes the Octopad special is its patented weighted, non-slip base. It remains balanced and sturdy on all types of ground, including smooth, sloped, and uneven ground. So, you’ll be able to capture kick-ass content whether traveling in the city, mountains, or anywhere in between!

In addition, the Octopad is compatible with loads of different cameras and photography accessories besides the Insta360. You can use it with DSLR and mirrorless cameras, GoPros, smartphones, microphones, monitors, and more, making it one of the most versatile pieces of photography equipment in our camera kit.

Must-Have Insta360 Accessories: Third-Person Backpack Mount

Another one of the best Insta360 accessories is the Third-Person Backpack Mount. It allows you to attach your Insta360 directly to your backpack to film epic drone-like third-person videos without needing to actually own a drone. It’s a good accessory for travelers (especially solo travelers) since it’s lightweight and, unlike most drones, doesn’t require a special permit. 

Furthermore, this ingenious Insta360 Third-Person Backpack Mount boasts a hands-free design perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking and backpacking. It features two backpack straps, two waist straps, and a strong carbon fiber pole. All of the straps are adjustable so that it can fit all different-sized backpacks, big and small. 

Insta360 Triple Suction Cup Car Mount

 

For car enthusiasts who like to get fast and furious and travelers who enjoy road trips, one of the most popular Insta360 accessories is the Insta360 Triple Suction Cup Car Mount. It breaks the barrier of what hobbyist videographers used to think was possible by allowing you to record rarely-seen, video game-like footage.

Its design uses three separate suction cups in a triangular form that maximizes suction strength and stability. Each suction cup is rated to deliver 20kg of static suction force. Trust us, the last thing you want is for your Insta360 camera to fly off the car while driving down the road. You can modify it to use two or one suction cup when driving on smooth roads. 

One important thing to note is that you must use the Insta360 Triple Suction Cup Car Mount in unison with the Insta360 Action Invisible Selfie Stick, which is sold separately. The selfie stick is also good for vloggers and YouTubers when it’s not attached to the car mount.

Learn More:

• Which Types of Action Camera Mount Do You Need?
• Tips for Creating Engaging and Well-Composed Video Shots

Must-Have Insta360 Accessories: GPS Preview Remote

 

One of the most innovative Insta360 accessories currently on the market is the Insta360 GPS Preview Remote. It’s a small monitor that connects wirelessly to the Insta360 via Bluetooth and works as a portable remote control. You can use it to quickly adjust camera settings and view your camera feed in real time.

The remote control function works up to 20 meters (65.6 feet) away, and the preview feature works up to 8 meters (26.2 feet) away. The device comes with a wrist strap allowing you to wear the remote like a watch and a universal strap to attach to bikes, motorcycles, etc. Finally, the Insta360 GPS Preview Remote is compatible with the Insta360 Ace and Insta360 Ace Pro. 

Insta360 Chest Strap

One of the long-time staples in the world of Insta360 accessories is the Insta360 Chest Strap. This comfortable and secure mounting accessory was one of the first ones introduced for action cameras, and its incredibly popular status all these years later is a testament to its quality and versatility.

The chest strap captures stunning first-person shots, so you can look back on your videos later and see the same perspective you saw in the moment. It's also adjustable to fit all body types and has a non-slip design that prevents your Insta360 Ace Pro from moving around, even when participating in activities like trail running and mountain biking.

Must-Have Insta360 Accessories: Multi Mount

Last but not least, there’s the Insta360 Multi Mount. It’s a unique product that combines three Insta360 accessories into one. When you purchase the multi-mount, you get an Insta360 tripod, an Insta360 selfie stick, and an Insta360 magic arm. Sold separately, you would pay over twice the price, making the multi-mount an amazing bargain!

It has a three-fold design that folds down super small, making it ideal for traveling. It also makes it easier to record video from angles and perspectives that are usually difficult to reach. An adjustable ball head and hang-up point further enhance the versatility of the multi-mount. 

More Insta360 Ace Pro Accessories

While those are the best Insta360 accessories on sale today, they aren’t the only ones. For people looking to expand their Insta360 camera kit further, here’s a list of more Insta360 Ace Pro accessories to consider. 

• Insta360 Action Invisible Selfie Stick
• Insta360 Ski Pole Mount
• Insta360 Helmet Mount Bundle
• Insta360 Floating Hand Grip
• Insta360 Head Strap

Recommended Photography Gear

Disclaimer: Our articles might have affiliate links and the occasional sponsored content, but don't sweat it – if you buy something, we get a little kickback at no extra cost to you, and we only hype products we truly believe in!

 

Learn More:

• How to Shoot B-Roll (And Other Important Tips)
• Get Ready for Summertime Travel Photography With This Crucial Gear

 

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^{Photo by franckreporter via iStock}

I'm writing this the first week of August, so as you can imagine, it's a little weird talking about holiday gifts.

However, the first seven months of 2020 have flown by - despite the challenging circumstances - so I figured the next four months would be equally as fast. I might as well start naming my top gifts for photographers now, that way you have time to pick up the items you want for yourself or for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

While $250 might not seem like a big budget for photography-related gear, you might be surprised at what you can find for less than that price point.

Below are ten of my favorite photography gifts for $250 or less.

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: CanvasHQ Print 

One of my favorite gifts to give (and to get, while we're at it) is a big, beautiful print.

Personally, I like canvas because of the texture the canvas gives to the print. Besides, a canvas print is something that will continue to give joy to the person that receives it for years and years to come!

Now, I know what you're thinking...canvas is so old-school.

But if you order your canvases from the right printers, you can get something that is beautiful, well-made and looks modern, even if the substrate is perhaps a bit old-school.

I have tons of canvases in my home, the vast majority of which are fromCanvasHQ.

These are some of the best canvas prints I've ever purchased. The sharpness of detail, the color accuracy, and the overall build quality of these prints is next-level good.

Part of the reason for this is the materials CanvasHQ uses. We’re talking archival-grade canvas, commercial-grade inks that are water and UV resistant, and kiln-dried pine frames to keep everything straight and true.

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

These guys are committed to getting it right, so if something doesn’t go as planned, you won’t be hung out to dry.

If you have questions, they’ll answer them. If you have a problem, they’ll fix it. If you need assistance with uploading your photo or even picking the best finishes for your canvas, they’ve got your back. 

In the video above, you can see how one of my CanvasHQ prints stacks up against similar prints from other printing companies. I think you'll see why I'm so loyal to CanvasHQ!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: ViewSonic VG1655 Portable Monitor

Sometimes you need a bright, portable monitor, and for those occasions, the ViewSonic VG1655 is a great option.

This monitor has a frameless IPS 15.6-inch screen and weighs a mere two pounds. It has two-way power, dual USB-C ports, a stand cover, and a screen protector. It can be used in portrait or landscape orientation.

To help reduce eye strain, the monitor has a blue light filter. The flicker-free technology gives you a beautiful picture to view as well.

You can use this monitor with laptops, PCs, and Macs and comes with a three-year warranty. There are even dual built-in speakers!

Learn more about the ViewSonic VG1655 Portable Monitor

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Haida NanoPro MC Variable ND Filter

One of the best things about having a variable ND filter in your camera bag is that you can replace multiple ND filters with a single one.

That might not sound like a big deal, but for me (and many other photographers), it's nice to be able to streamline your camera bag and your photography workflow while you're at it.

What's so nice about the Haida NanoPro MC variable ND filter is that you get 4-stops to 9-stops of variability. This allows you to attack all sorts of long exposures in different lighting situations. Additionally, you can increase the aperture to control depth of field for beautiful background blur in your images.

This particular variable ND filter has nano multi-coatings on both sides of the glass that improves beading when the surface comes in contact with oil or water. So not only does it protect the filter glass, but this coating also results in a much more efficient cleaning process.

Speaking of efficiency, Haida included visual cues on the front filter ring that represent the different density values. This helps you dial in the desired density settings both easier and faster, and allows you to repeat the process more easily as well.

Where some variable ND filters reduce the overall clarity and color accuracy of the images you take, Haida has protected against both of these problems by using optical glass. Each surface also includes 10 layers of anti-reflection coatings to minimize internal ghosting and reflections.

You can also use this filter with other filters thanks to the front filter threads. Add in a side lever for easy rotation, a plastic case to protect the filter during transport, and a price WELL below the $250 mark, and you have the makings for one heck of a holiday gift idea for the photographer on your list!

Learn more about the Haida NanoPro MC Variable ND Filter

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: A Pre-Owned Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 Lens

Ask just about any photographer what their first lens purchase was, and they'll say a Nifty Fifty. That makes it the ideal gift idea for photographers this holiday season!

There's a lot to love about 50mm lenses, too...

For starters, it's a great focal length for learning all kinds of photography, from landscapes to portraits and everything in between.

That also makes it an incredibly versatile lens.

In fact, put a 50mm lens on your camera, and you can shoot all day long without ever needing a different focal length. They're even great for shooting video!

You can find 50mm lenses with large apertures, too, like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM shown above.

At f/1.4, photographers can more readily shoot in low-light conditions without having to push the ISO too high, which helps reduce digital noise.

Having a large aperture like that is also beneficial for gathering tons of light, that way a faster shutter speed can be used. It's also helpful for blurring the background in portraits to get a more professional-looking shot.

Another benefit of a 50mm lens is that they force you to think more creatively about how you frame up your shots.

That is, since 50mm lenses have a constant focal length of 50mm, there's no zoom to rely on for getting close-up or wider shots. 

By using a 50mm lens and "zooming with your feet," becoming a master of composition can be an easier task because you're forced to physically move further away or closer to the subject.

Of course, the biggest benefit of 50mm lenses is the price. These lenses are well-priced so you can bestow a great little lens with tons of functionality and versatility upon your favorite photographer without busting your budget.

That sounds like a win-win deal to me! 

Learn more about the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 lens

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo

^{Photo by Brandon Burk}

Designed specifically for single camera shooters, the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo is a perfect choice for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

The MoneyMaker Solo features impeccable designs and a commitment to quality for shooters that don’t need two or three cameras on their person as the original MoneyMaker provides.

Worn as a sling strap, the MoneyMaker Solo has a big, soft, contoured shoulder strap that ensures that you’ll have a comfortable carrying experience whether you’re only out shooting for a couple of hours or if you’re out shooting for an entire day.

With an integrated stabilizer strap, the MoneyMaker Solo will stay put on your shoulder so you don’t have to worry about it slipping off.

What’s more, you can use the Holdfast Belt Anchor to give the Solo even more stability, it locks the camera to your belt, no more flopping around as you maneuver and bend over while working. Then a quick pull on the release tab as you grab your camera and you’re ready to take the shot!

As well, you can also use all of the Holdfast Gear accessories with the Solo like a Holdfast Cell Phone Pouch or Lens Pouch. See how it all comes together in the video above.

Just like the original MoneyMaker, the MoneyMaker Solo gives you unparalleled freedom of movement so you can get the shots you want without having your gear in the way.

In that regard, the MoneyMaker Solo ticks all the boxes - it’s highly functional, incredibly comfortable, works without getting in your way, and it looks like a million buck!

Learn more about the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Insta360 GO

Photographers these days are almost as much about video as they are about still images. And for that reason, a camera that captures video is a must.

But not everyone wants a traditional video camera. That's where the Insta360 GO comes in...

This tiny stabilized camera shoots 30-second or 60-second clips with the press of a button. From those clips, you can find the best still frames if you wish, all with the help of artificial intelligence.

In addition to being stabilized, the Insta360 GO features Hyperlapse, automatic editing, timelapse, and slow-motion capabilities.

Using the Barrel Roll feature, you can adjust the rotation of the shot with a simple swipe. It's also water-resistant and can even withstand a quick dunk in the water.

Transferring files is as simple as plugging the camera into your phone. And with a battery that can handle about 200 shots on a charge, you can amass a lot of images and videos!

Learn more about the Insta360 GO

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: PolarPro Apex Minimalist Tripod 

While PolarPro might be better known for their impeccable lens filters, they've expanded their product line to include many other useful tools, like the Apex Minimalist Tripod.

But don't let this tripod's small stature fool you...

It is every bit a PolarPro product with robust construction, superb design, and top-notch functionality.

The smaller form factor of this tripod not only makes it a perfect companion for mirrorless or smartphone photography, but it's also a perfect addition to any photographer's travel bag.

The tripod can be completely locked into place by using PolarPro's excellent TiltLocks.

These locks allow you to lock the tripod down in many different orientations, that way you can get the precise shot you envision.

Additionally, this tripod comes with PolarPro's Apex ball head, removable rubber feet with aluminum spikes inside, and a 35-degree angled plate release know, which enables you to hot-swap other tripods and mounts.

And since this tripod is 95 percent aluminum, it's lightweight and durable at the same time.

If the you or the photographer on your holiday shopping list have been itching for a robust, yet small tripod, the PolarPro Apex should be something you take a long, hard look at.

Learn more about the PolarPro Apex Minimalist Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: H&Y K-Series Filter Holder

Another top pick for your favorite photographer is a rock-solid lens filter holder.

For my money, it doesn't get any better than the filter holder shown above - the H&Y K-Series.

What sets this filter holder apart from the rest is the quality of construction. Where many filter holders are made of plastic, this one is crafted of aluminum to give you the durability you need without adding unnecessary weight.

This particular holder also comes with a drop-in 95mm circular polarizer that features SCHOTT glass. The glass gets an HD polishing technique that improves light transmission so your images have even more reason to shine.

This circular polarizer also has multiple nano coatings that make it scratch-resistant, oil-repellant, and water-repellant.

Of course, a high-quality filter holder needs to minimize light leaks, and the K-Series is more than up to the task.

There are foam seals that prevent light from leaking in, that way the results you get with your images fulfill your precise vision.

Plus, this is a magnetic holder, so you can use any of H&Y's magnetic rectangular filters (like this one).

This is a filter holder system that's well designed, well built, and worth every single penny. The photographer on your list will love having this bad boy in their kit!

Learn more about the H&Y K-Series Filter Holder

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: HEX Ranger Clamshell DSLR Backpack 

 

The folks at HEX have a passion for what they do, and it shows in the products they design and create. 

I actually have a HEX Ranger DSLR Sling Bag. Talk about a camera bag!

But if the photographer on your list needs to carry more gear than I do, the Ranger Clamshell DSLR backpack is a prime choice.

With a capacity of 21 liters, this bag can hold a ton of gear - a DSLR with lens attached, a couple more lenses, a laptop, a drone, and accessories, in fact! 

The clamshell design makes it easy to see your gear, retrieve it, and put it away. And with fully customizable inserts, you can make the bag work for you no matter what arrangement of gear you need.

The all-important comfort factor is off the charts, too. It has ergonomic shoulder straps that hug your shoulders and fit perfectly. The air mesh construction will keep your shoulders and back cool as well. 

Additionally, HEX included a custom molded and foam padded back panel, that way even when you’re carrying a heavy load, you’ll still be comfortable. 

With tripod straps on the bottom, side straps for attaching more gear, a hidden rain cover, a water bottle pocket, and tons of other handy features, this is a bag that the photographer on your list will love, without a doubt 

Learn more about the HEX Ranger Clamshell DSLR Backpack

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: EF to E-Mount Lens Adapter

If the photographer you're shopping for used to be a Canon shooter and now has a Sony camera, you can give them this handy adapter that allows them to use their old EF and EF-S lenses on a Sony E-mount camera, like the a6300, a6400, a6500, a9 or a7, among many others.

This adapter has both autofocus function and aperture control, as well as a handy USB port for firmware updates.

You can switch between phase and contrast autofocus modes, and there's EXIF signal transmitting and IS functionality too.

There's simply no easier and more functional way to pair Canon lenses with a Sony E-mount camera!

Learn more about the EF to E-Mount Lens Adapter 

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Artbeat Studios HD Metal Print

Looking for a gift with a ton of visual appeal without it having a huge impact on your bank account? Look no further than an HD Metal Print from Artbeat Studios!

The great thing about an HD metal print is that it can be put just about anywhere in a home or office and immediately draw the attention of anyone that sees it. That’s due to the high-quality materials that Artbeat Studios uses to craft their prints.

For example, you can choose between a glossy or matte finish, where a glossy treatment adds depth to the image and creates a lot of drama and a matte finish eliminates glare and offers a more subtle viewing experience.

What’s more, you can choose from natural or black wood wall mounts, or if you prefer, silver or black aluminum wall mounts to further customize how the print looks. The mounts can be recessed from the edge of the print to give it the appearance that it’s floating on the wall, or you can opt to have the mount flush with the edges of the print to give it a little more depth and heft.

No matter how you choose to customize the print, it’ll be well worth the money!

Learn more about Artbeat Studios HD Metal Prints.

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Pre-Owned Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II

Whether the photographer on your list is just starting out and needs a solid first camera or is more experienced and wants a second camera body that's easy to handle and travel with, the E-M10 Mark II is a great option.

This camera is super small and lightweight, making it an easy addition to any camera bag.

But despite its small size, it's loaded with features that your favorite photographer will appreciate.

It has a 16.1-megapixel micro four thirds sensor paired with an 81-point autofocus system.

This camera has five-axis in-body image stabilization, a native ISO range from 100-25600, and 8fps burst shooting capabilities.

Additionally, this little Olympus offers 1080p HD video at up to 60fps, a beautiful electronic viewfinder, and a 3-inch LCD screen.

This camera is several years old, but still has many top-notch features that photographers today will enjoy. You'll enjoy the small price tag just as much!

Learn more about the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II

Gifts for Photographers Under $250: Amazon Gift Card

Totally stumped regarding gift ideas for photographers on your list?

Why not go the easy route and get them an Amazon gift card?

Though a gift card isn't exactly the sexiest gift, when the photographer in your family sees that you have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards whatever they want - a new lens, a second camera body, lighting gear, a laptop - you name it!

As far as flexibility goes, there's nothing better to give a photographer than a gift card.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

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^{Photo by RobertBreitpaul via iStock} 

With a $500 holiday shopping budget, you can really go all-out for a loved one that loves photography.

From huge canvas prints of their favorite photos to a new-to-them camera or lens, there's really an unlimited array of possible gift ideas.

To help narrow things down, I've listed 10 of my favorite gifts for photographers below.

These are personal favorites of mine that I have enjoyed at one time or another, and I think any other photographer would enjoy these as well!

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: CanvasHQ Print 

If you’re like me, sometimes finding the perfect gift for certain loved ones is a long, drawn-out process that causes tons of stress, and often you still don’t get something that totally blows them away.

I think a lot of photographers fall into this category. We have specific likes, and many of us already have most of what we want or need gear-wise, and what we don’t have is usually too expensive to put on a Christmas wish-list anyway.

But for all those hard-to-shop-for photographers on your 2019 holiday shopping list, I have the perfect solution - a large-format canvas print.

Think about it…

A canvas print is the gift that keeps on giving.

Not only can you immortalize one of your favorite images from your favorite photographer, but you also give them a means to showcase their work in a format that’s drop-dead gorgeous.

I have tons of canvases in my home, the vast majority of which are from CanvasHQ.

Now, I know what you’re thinking - canvas is old school.

Sure, maybe it is, but I’m telling you that these canvas prints from CanvasHQ are mind-bogglingly beautiful. In fact, they go head-to-head with any metal or acrylic print I have in my home.

The attention to detail is just amazing, and the materials they use are top-of-the-line. We’re talking archival-grade canvas, commercial-grade inks that are water and UV resistant, and kiln-dried pine frames to keep everything straight and true.

I love the personality that the canvas texture gives my images. That’s true whether it’s a portrait of my son or a landscape photo.

 I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the customer service you get with CanvasHQ.

These guys are committed to getting it right, so if something doesn’t go as planned, you won’t be hung out to dry.

If you have questions, they’ll answer them. If you have a problem, they’ll fix it. If you need assistance with uploading your photo or even picking the best finishes for your canvas, they’ve got your back. 

In the video above, I explain why I highly recommend a CanvasHQ canvas print as the ideal gift for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ!

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Holdfast Sightseer Camera and Lens Modular System

There's two problems that this gift idea can solve: discomfort and difficult-to-access gear.

The Holdfast Sightseer is a small bag, yet it holds a ton of gear. The photographer on your list can put their 13-inch laptop in there along with a camera (with a lens attached), two more lenses, and other accessories like spare batteries, memory cards, and a flash.

And since Holdfast engineered this thing to be modular, you can give the gift of even more carrying capacity by adding a Lens Pouch (or two) and a Cell Phone Pouch to the mix.

Since the Sightseer is a truly modular system, you can mix and match lens pouches as you need to carry as much or as little gear as the situation calls for. What’s more, this system can grow with you as you get more gear - start out lean and mean with just the Sightseer bag, and as more lenses are accumulated, add Lens Pouches as needed.

Better still, because your gear is easily accessible, you don’t have to worry about missing a shot! With your gear at your fingertips, there's no waiting around to get ready to press the shutter button.

It’s easy to carry, too. Just use the two sets of carrying handles, the shoulder strap, or attach it to the Holdfast MoneyMaker dual camera strap for a super easy way to get your gear from point A to point B.

These bags look amazing, too, with a waxed canvas and American Bison leather exterior and an Aztec flannel fleece interior. In other words, the Sightseer is the complete package!

Learn more about the Holdfast Sightseer

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Synology DS419slim

Every photographer needs a lot of storage capacity, and I can't think of a better network attached storage than the Synology DS419slim.

I've been using this NAS since June, and it's been a great asset for my workflow.

There's four bays for adding 2.5-inch drives, so there's tons of space for image files, yet this little guy is just 4.72 x 4.13 x 5.59-inches in size.

It can literally sit on top of your desk and take care of all your storage needs without getting in the way!

What's more, it weighs less than 1.5 pounds, so if the photographer on your list needs to get up and go, they can easily take this device with them.

As far as specs go, this thing is loaded for bear...

It runs Synology's excellent DiskStation Manager, has RAID protection and easy file-sharing capabilities, as well as a dual-core CPU.

You get a hardware encryption engine, read/write speed of 220 MB/s and 94 MB/s, respectively, and dual Gigabit Link Aggregation with failover support as well.

Add in dual USB 3.0 ports, could syncing with Dropbox, Google Drive, and others, as well as easy access via iOS and Android apps, and you have the makings of a hard-working, functional, and easy-to-use NAS!

Learn more about the Synology DS419slim

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Wandrd HEXAD Access Duffle

It’s tough to beat a great camera bag as a gift for the photographer on your list.

And if it’s a well-designed, comfortable to carry, functional, good-looking bag you’re after, look no further than this beauty - the Wandrd HEXAD Access Duffle.

The huge clamshell opening on top offers total access to the inside of the bag, so you not only have a great view of the gear that’s inside but you can also easily retrieve and put away your camera or accessories.

Inside, you’ll find three organizational compartments that help you keep your gear nice and tidy. That’s a must for a bag that can hold a whopping 45 liters of gear.

But all that space is wrapped in a carry-on sized bag that’s 9"H X 14"W X 22"L and weighs just 3.9 pounds.

Check out the other features that this bag offers:

• A padded laptop sleeve
• Side camera access
• High-quality zippers
• Weather resistant materials
• Removable backpack straps
• Removable camera protection

There’s even an RFID secure passport pocket for those out-of-country adventures!

On top of all that, this bag looks like a million bucks! I mean, what photographer wouldn’t want to carry this bag around?!

But those good looks aren’t superficial - the bag is made of waterproof Tarpaulin and 1680D Ballistic Nylon with a WR Army coating. Not bad, eh?

You can get your favorite photographer the bag by itself or opt to add one or two medium camera cubes along with it. Whichever route you go, you’ll be well under your $500 budget!

Learn more about the Wandrd HEXAD Access Duffle

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Wiral LITE Cable Cam

If creating dynamic videos is on your favorite photographer's agenda, then the Wiral LITE Cable Cam is a perfect gift idea!

This simple rope system allows videographers to get tracking shots quickly and easily. In fact, it takes just a few minutes to set this thing up!

Called "Quickreel," the system's patent-pending rope system makes it super easy to capture awesome videos without tons of time setting up or taking down gear. Better yet, since an ultra static rope is used, you get excellent performance and top-notch safety without bulk or weight.

Once it's set up, you can use your GoPro or another camera to get long, smooth video sequences.

And in looking at the video above, you'd think it was done with a hugely expensive setup, right?

Not so...just a handy Wiral Lite that you can pick up for well under the $500 limit!

This is a functional and fun gift that any photographer that enjoys shooting video would love to have under the tree on Christmas morning!

Learn more about the Wiral LITE Cable Cam

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Insta360 One X

If you have an adventurous photographer on your holiday shopping list, why not give them a gift that will blow their minds and help them create unique photos unlike anything they've created before?

The Insta360 One X is a 360-degree camera that makes creating photos and videos a fun and exciting exercise.

But this thing is no gimmick - it has dual f/2 lenses with 200-degree fields of view. The overlap of the lenses results in a true 360-degree image or video.

With a 1/2.3-inch sensor, 14 MB still images, and up to 5.7K video shooting at 30fps, it offers tons of options for getting high-quality content too.

It's small and portable, too, so you can easily hold it in your hand, buy a mount for your bike, strap it to your dog, or put it virtually anywhere to get interesting images and video sequences.

And since it comes with an incredible 6-axis gyroscopic stabilization system, the video footage it records will be buttery smooth.

Insta360 has also packed this thing with software to make using it easier and more productive.

Control the camera via the companion app, which features Live View so you can see what the camera sees.

There's even built-in shooting modes, including HDR, time-lapse, and "Bullet Time" (remember those incredible scenes in The Matrix where the camera rotated around Neo as he dodged bullets?).

I've had this camera for about a month now, and it is SO much fun!

Learn more about the Insta360 One X

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: E-Image EK610 Tripod

Every photographer needs a reliable tripod in their camera bag, and the E-Image EK610 fits the bill.

Billed as a video tripod, the EK610 provides photographers and videographers alike with exceptional stability thanks to its strong two-stage aluminum legs.

Making adjustments to the tripod is quick and simple thanks to ergonomic leg adjustment knobs and a mid-level spreader that enhances stability.

There's a fixed counterbalance to enhance stability even further, and the included fluid head makes for ultra-smooth panning.

The head can support up to 6.6 pounds, so it's ideal for use with a mirrorless camera, DSLR, or small video camera.

There's even a handy carrying case for the tripod, spreader, and head, so the photographer on your list can easily transport it from one shoot location to the next.

Best of all, this tripod is WAY under the $500 budget mark, so you can give an awesome gift and save some cash at the same time.

Learn more about the E-Image EK610 Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: F-Stop Sukha Backpack

I've had the f-stop Sukha bag for quite a few months now, and it has quickly become my go-to bag for occasions when I need to haul a lot of gear.

It's waterproof, so that's a bonus since I'm often out in the elements taking landscape photos. That's a feature the photographer on your holiday list is sure to like as well!

Additionally, this bag holds a ton of gear - 70 liters worth. I can pack nearly all of my camera gear into this single bag!

As you can see above, even though this is a large bag, it's still super easy to find what you're looking for.

There's pockets and compartments galore, and with f-stop's Internal Camera Unit (ICU), all your gear is kept neat and organized.

The ICU is also heavily padded, so it cradles your gear and protects it from bumps and bruises you might encounter along the way.

I also like the fact that this bag has a huge panel that completely folds down, that way you can clearly see what gear is where.

On top of all that, f-stop has incorporated handy features that make this bag even more functional.

There's expandable zipper pockets should you need a little more room and a reinforced carry strap that's ideal for carrying your tripod.

The internal aluminum frame gives the bag excellent rigidity that makes carrying it an easier task, and with enhanced EVA-padded Jersey laminate shoulder straps, the bag rides nice on your shoulders (and on your hips, too).

It's just a great bag that can carry a ton of gear and lets you do so in total comfort. Talk about the perfect gift idea!

Learn more about the f-stop Sukha

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Wescott Rapid Box Octa Softbox

If you’re in need of a gift for the photographer on your holiday list, don’t just settle for any old thing. Instead, wow them with a gift that has the ability to help them elevate the quality of their photos.

In photography, light is everything, and if the photographer you’re shopping for takes any portraits at all, they need a high-quality softbox in their collection of gear.

And for me, the best softboxes on the market are those by Westcott.

I particularly like their Rapid Box Octa series because they’re lightweight, easy to set up, and supremely durable.

The all-aluminum frame is strong and helps the octabox keep its shape - a shape, by the way, that has a very shallow depth, so it can still be used even if space is at a premium.

But what will impress your favorite photographer most about the Rapid Box is probably not its durability or construction, but the way it modifies light.

There’s a silver reflector that’s sewn into the back of the box’s diffusion panel, which minimizes the hot spot from the speedlight and results in gorgeously even light from corner to corner.

Speaking of the diffusion panel - it’s made of an all-natural, unbleached nylon fabric, which softens the light without changing its color temperature. Lesser softboxes cannot claim the same!

In the end, you want the gift you give to your loved one to be something that they love, but also something that they can use over and over again. The Westcott Rapid Octa softbox certainly fits the bill, and with various sizes available, including 26-inch, 36-inch, and 48-inch, you can select a softbox that’s just right for the types of portraits your favorite photographer takes. 

Learn more about Westcott Rapid Box Octa Softboxes (26-inch, 36-inch, and 48-inch)

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Pre-Owned Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85

If the photographer on your list wants to add a mirrorless camera to their setup as a second camera, or if they're on the hunt for a fast and feature-rich camera to upgrade to, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 is a great choice.

This micro fourth thirds camera offers a 16-megapixel sensor with an ISO sensitivity range of 200-25600 that allows it to be used in all kinds of lighting conditions.

The 10fps continuous shooting speed is great for action shots, but if you want to really speed things up, you can shoot at 40fps when using the electronic shutter.

This camera is capable of recording 4K UHD video and has built-in five-axis sensor-shift image stabilization that allows you to shoot handheld without the worry of blurry photos due to camera shake.

Even better, if you pair this camera with a stabilized lens, you get double the stabilization!

Learn more about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85

Gifts for PHotographers Under $500: Pre-Owned Canon EOS Rebel T6i

If you're shopping for a photographer that's looking for an upgrade to their first camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T6i is a great choice.

This camera has a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that's paired with Canon's DIGIC 6 image processor. 

That means that the photographer on your list can take high-resolution photos in a wide range of conditions from sunny to cloudy landscapes to bright or dark interior portraits.

That's thanks in part to the T6i's excellent ISO range that can expand up to 25600.

This is a modern camera, to be sure, with features like NFC for quick and easy transfer of photos and Wi-Fi for connecting to other devices.

Using the Camera Connect Mobile APP, photographers can quickly and effortlessly transfer their images and videos right from the camera to the cloud for safekeeping.

This is an excellent mid-range camera that offers tons of features, superb performance, and that works with Canon's extensive lineup of EF and EF-S lenses. And with MPB's thorough system of inspecting gear, you can rest assured that the pre-owned model you select will be what arrives at your door, in the condition as stated.

That means you get great gear while saving tons of money!

Learn more about the Canon EOS Rebel T6i

^{Photo by Pekic via iStock}

With a budget of $500, you can buy some really awesome photography gifts for your loved one this year.

From an awesome large-format canvas print to a drone, a high-quality camera harness to a fantastic tripod, there is no shortage of photography gear you can consider with a $500 budget.

Below, I've listed some of my favorite under-$500 gift ideas for photographers that should be on your list this holiday season!

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: CanvasHQ Print 

One of my favorite gifts to give (and to get, while we're at it) is a big, beautiful print.

Personally, I like canvas because of the texture the canvas gives to the print. Besides, a canvas print is something that will continue to give joy to the person that receives it for years and years to come!

Now, I know what you're thinking...canvas is so old-school.

But if you order your canvases from the right printers, you can get something that is beautiful, well-made and looks modern, even if the substrate is perhaps a bit old-school.

I have tons of canvases in my home, the vast majority of which are fromCanvasHQ.

These are some of the best canvas prints I've ever purchased. The sharpness of detail, the color accuracy, and the overall build quality of these prints is next-level good.

Part of the reason for this is the materials CanvasHQ uses. We’re talking archival-grade canvas, commercial-grade inks that are water and UV resistant, and kiln-dried pine frames to keep everything straight and true.

But CanvasHQ isn't just tops in the quality department...

They have excellent customer service that makes you feel heard and as though you're the only customer they have to worry about at that moment.

These guys are committed to getting it right, so if something doesn’t go as planned, you won’t be hung out to dry.

If you have questions, they’ll answer them. If you have a problem, they’ll fix it. If you need assistance with uploading your photo or even picking the best finishes for your canvas, they’ve got your back. 

In the video above, you can see how one of my CanvasHQ prints stacks up against similar prints from other printing companies. I think you'll see why I'm so loyal to CanvasHQ!

Start shopping for your favorite photographer today on CanvasHQ.

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Holdfast Sightseer Camera and Lens Modular System

One of the things that gets in the way of taking great photos is not being able to carry all the gear that you need in comfort. Additionally, problems arise when you aren’t able to easily access your gear when you need it.

The Holdfast Sightseer solves both of those problems for the photography lover on your shopping list this holiday season.

The Sightseer holds a crazy amount of gear for a small bag. That includes up to a 13-inch laptop, a camera with lens attached, two additional lenses, and all the needed accessories inside the bag.

But because it’s a modular system, you can add even more gear by adding Lens Pouches that attach to the exterior of the bag (or you can carry them on the Holdfast MoneyMaker or even on your own belt). That means that the big zoom lens that won’t fit in the bag can be carried safely in a padded Lens Pouch attached to the outside.

Since the Sightseer is a truly modular system, you can mix and match lens pouches as you need to carry as much or as little gear as the situation calls for. What’s more, this system can grow with you as you get more gear - start out lean and mean with just the Sightseer bag, and as more lenses are accumulated, add Lens Pouches as needed.

Better still, because your gear is easily accessible, you don’t have to worry about missing a shot.

It’s easy to carry, too. Just use the two sets of carrying handles, the shoulder strap, or attach it to the Holdfast MoneyMaker dual camera strap for a super easy way to get your gear from point A to point B.

These bags look amazing, too, with a waxed canvas and American Bison leather exterior and an Aztec flannel fleece interior. In other words, the Sightseer is the complete package!

Learn more about the Holdfast Sightseer

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: DJI Mavic Mini

I'll be the first to say that the Mavic Mini can't compete with the Mavic Air 2 or the Mavic 2 Pro. But the Mini wasn't designed to compete with its larger and more capable cousins.

Instead, the Mini is the perfect gift idea for photographers that are just getting into drone photography. It's small, lightweight, and super portable, so it's easy to take on photography trips without taking up a ton of room in a photographer's bag.

Likewise, the Mavic Mini is incredibly easy to fly, and is a superb option for someone that needs to learn how to fly a drone.

For photography purposes, the Mini can take 12-megapixel photos and shoots 2.7K Quad HD videos.

There's a 3-axis gimbal to provide the camera stability while shooting, in-app creator templates that speeds up the process of creating epic videos, and a flight time of 30 minutes as well.

Additionally, your favorite photographer will love the fact that the Mini comes with the DJI Fly app that gives them an easy-to-understand user interface. There's also a feature called Flight Tutorial to help them get started piloting their drone.

Learn more about the DJI Mavic Mini

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition

I just picked one of these things up and have been so impressed with it that I had to include it on this list of gifts for photographers under $500.

Essentially, the Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition is two cameras in one.

First, you have a 360-degree dual-lens camera that enables you to create those immersive 360-degree videos you see on the internet.

And second, you get a more traditional action cam lens that allows you to use the camera to shoot wide-angle photos and videos.

This is possible because the camera is modular.

There's a "brain" on the bottom, and then you add different components to it as you need.

On top of the cool factor that the modularity provides, you also get top-notch performance...

The camera shoots super 5.7K video in 360-degree mode, 4K wide-angle video in action cam mode, offers FlowState image stabilization, and is waterproof up to five meters.

Additionally, this camera offers hyperlapse and slow-motion modes, an invisible selfie stick, and voice control, among many other features.

If the photographer on your list loves adventures and needs a versatile camera to join them, give the Insta360 ONE R strong consideration.

Learn more about the Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: ViewSonic TD1655 Portable Touchscreen Monitor

This 15.6-inch touchscreen monitor is the perfect companion for a photographer that's constantly on the go.

Weighing just two pounds and measuring .6-inches thick, this lightweight monitor can be easily added to a camera bag for quick transport.

The in-cell capacitive touchscreen gives you a smooth and responsive experience whether you're tapping, swiping, or pinching on the screen. The photographer on your list will enjoy the blue light filter to minimize eye strain, as well as the flicker-free full HD viewing experience.

The monitor comes with a stand and a magnetic cover, so it's an all-in-one tool for on-the-go photographers.

The monitor works with laptops, PCs, and Macs, and comes with a three-year warranty as well.

Learn more about the ViewSonic TD1655 Portable Touchscreen Monitor

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2

This under-$500 photography gift list wouldn't be complete without an entry from Peak Design, which seems to find ways to improve on their already incredible lineup of camera bags year in and year out.

Their Everyday Backpack V2 is certainly one of the best camera bags of 2020, with features that make it more usable than ever.

Peak Design incorporated MagLatch hardware on the top of the bag so you can open it up and access your gear in a flash.

To expand access further, this pack has two side access panels that are secured by weatherproof UltraZips.

The shell of the bag is comprised of 100-percent recycled 400D weatherproofing so your gear stays nice and dry. There's also a handy tuck-away strap system that enables you to lash gear to the exterior of the bag to expand its carrying capacity.

As impressive as the outside is, the inside of the bag offers lots of goodies.

There's dedicated sleeves for up to a 15-inch laptop, numerous internal slip pockets for smaller items, and three configurable FlexFold dividers to help keep your gear organized.

Of course, the FlexFold dividers also help protect your gear by keeping it neatly organized and separated from one another.

The Everyday Bag V2 is available in 20-liter and 30-liter sizes so you can select the right fit for your needs. Both are a great option for urban explorations when you want a backpack with a smaller footprint than the Nomatic bag.

Either way, you'll end up with one of the best bags of 2020!

Learn more about the Everyday Backpack V2 20-Liter or 30-Liter versions.

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: E-Image EK610 Tripod

Every photographer needs a reliable tripod in their camera bag, and the E-Image EK610 fits the bill.

Billed as a video tripod, the EK610 provides photographers and videographers alike with exceptional stability thanks to its strong two-stage aluminum legs.

Making adjustments to the tripod is quick and simple thanks to ergonomic leg adjustment knobs and a mid-level spreader that enhances stability.

There's a fixed counterbalance to enhance stability even further, and the included fluid head makes for ultra-smooth panning.

The head can support up to 6.6 pounds, so it's ideal for use with a mirrorless camera, DSLR, or small video camera.

There's even a handy carrying case for the tripod, spreader, and head, so the photographer on your list can easily transport it from one shoot location to the next.

Best of all, this tripod is WAY under the $500 budget mark, so you can give an awesome gift and save some cash at the same time.

Learn more about the E-Image EK610 Tripod

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: ProGrade Digital 325GB CFexpress Type B Memory Card

One of the best gifts you can buy for yourself or another photographer this year is a high-powered memory card that can accommodate the huge amounts of data that modern cameras record.

For my money, ProGrade Digital CF Express cards are the perfect option. In fact, I have three of these cards for my Canon EOS R5!

CF Express cards are far faster than UHS-II SD cards, so you can capture 4K, 6K, and in the case of the EOS R5, 8K video with ease thanks to the 1500 MB/s write speed. That lightning-fast write speed is also beneficial for fast burst shooting, that way your buffer clears and you don’t miss any shots.

These cards are backward compatible with XQD devices, too, so after a quick firmware update, you can use these cards on your XQD-enabled camera without issue.

Aside from the huge storage capacity and fast write speeds, these ProGrade cards offer security features that you simply don’t find on all memory cards. They come with laser-etched serial numbers to help prevent counterfeiting. What’s more, ProGrade includes advanced recovery pro software that prevents your photos and videos from being lost to corruption.

ProGrade also offers Digital Refresh Pro software (which is available separately) that refreshes and sanitizes your card to help it maintain peak performance. Open the Digital Refresh Pro software, check the health of your cards before your next shoot, and shoot with confidence knowing that your images and videos are safe and secure on your ProGrade card.

Add in read speeds of up to 1700 MB/s, a minimum write speed of 1400 MB/s, and resistance to extreme temperatures, shock, vibration, and X-rays, and you have the makings of one heck of a memory card.

There are few holiday gifts this small that pack this much punch! If you really want to impress the photographer on your list, give them the gift of a ProGrade CF Express card this year!

Learn more about ProGrade Digital CF Express Memory Cards

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Podium

This is one of my favorite under-$500 gift ideas because it is a gift that not only keeps on giving, but it could help your favorite photographer elevate their business to the next level.

Podium is a platform that helps you streamline communication with clients. So the photographer in your life that laments how much time they have to spend responding to emails, contact requests from their website, Facebook messages, and so forth, can stay up-to-date with all those things (and more!) without leaving their platform.

Rather than haphazardly staying in touch with clients, Podium allows you to text clients and prospective clients and organizes all those messages in a single dashboard, shown above.

Podium is built on the idea that the best way to get leads and turn prospects into customers is timely, genuine communication. You want to make it as easy as possible for people to ask you questions or find what they’re looking for, and Podium will do just that for the photographer on your list.

I use Podium, and it not only saves me a lot of time, but it saves my photography business a lot of money by ensuring I’m always the first one to respond to potential clients.

Podium even has a feature that lets me invoice clients right from the app so I’m also getting paid more quickly. Not bad, right?!

Learn more about Podium

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: GoPro Hero 8 Black

GoPro is synonymous with adventure photography, and their Hero 8 Black is their best action cam to date.

It can shoot 4K video at 60fps or 1080p at at 240fps for some super slow-motion video.

Its HyperSmooth 2.0 image stabilization is absolutely killer, and will allow the photographer on your list to take the most stable videos they've ever shot.

GoPro added a slew of other upgrades as well:

• Upgraded TimeWarp features with an auto mode that uses sensors to detect motion and adjust the recording speed
• Digital lenses offer multiple field of view settings (SuperView, Linear, Wide, and Narrow)
• Capture presets for popular types of recording with the ability to create and save your own
• LiveBurst photo mode takes 1.5-second images before and after the shutter button is depressed (think Live Photos on iPhones)
• SuperPhoto, GoPro's version of HDR, gets improved image quality
• Face detection, smile detection, and blink detection
• Built-in GPS and motion sensors
• Livestreaming at 1080p

On top of all that, the Hero 8 Black offers many different mods that extend its functionality and flexibility for all sorts of shooting situations.

GoPro also incorporated built-in mounting pins, which negates the need for a frame to connect the camera to accessories.

Plus, the Hero 8 Black is under $350 now, so you can get this for the photographer on your list and not even come close to your $500 budget!

Learn more about the GoPro Hero 8 Black

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Razer Core X Chroma eGPU

If the photographer on your list already has a laptop that they love but that's lacking in the graphics card department, you might consider giving them the gift of the Razer Core X Chroma eGPU.

This bad boy helps put a supercharge into a laptop's video card, that way you get a true desktop-grade video experience.

It comes with plug-and-play support for a wide range of graphics cards on PCs and Macs.

Though this gadget is intended to give gaming systems a power boost, I've found it to be incredibly helpful for my video editing work. If the photographer you're shopping for does a lot of video work, this eGPU will be a fantastic gift that will help them speed up their video processing workflow.

Learn more about the Razer Core X Chroma eGPU

Gifts for Photographers Under $500: Amazon Gift Card

Totally stumped regarding gift ideas for photographers on your list?

Why not go the easy route and get them an Amazon gift card?

Though a gift card isn't exactly the sexiest gift, when the photographer in your family sees that you have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!

With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards whatever they want - a new lens, a second camera body, lighting gear, a laptop - you name it!

As far as flexibility goes, there's nothing better to give a photographer than a gift card.

Learn more about Amazon gift cards

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