More Holiday Gift Ideas For the Photographer on Your List

PopPhoto has an article on What to Get The Serious Photographer In Your Life.

It's a little different from the previous list I mentioned in that it targets the professional/serious hobbyist instead of the mobile phone photographer.  The previous list was dedicated to Smartphone accessories.  The PopPhoto article is for photographers that use "actual" cameras.

The article also includes links to where the products can be purchased.  Many of the items can be purchased at local stores.  Local stores may also offer a suitable alternative.

Some of the items on the list:

Micro Gaffer's Tape
Similar to duct tape.  The difference is in the adhesive.  Gaffer's tape is designed not to leave adhesive residue when removed and won't melt under heat.  This makes it suitable for use under hot studio lights, unlike duct tape.

It can also be used in the field.

Gaffer's tape is a specialty product, unlike duct tape, and may need to be purchased online.  (An Internet search may show a local store that carries it.  Oddly, the local store near me that carries it is Guitar Center.)

Can be purchased directly from supplier's web site, PopPhoto article has link.


Memory Cards
Memory cards to occasionally fail and having multiple cards can be useful.  Personally, I find it takes some time to process a full memory card.  Having a second card allows me to continue taking pictures while processing the first, full card. 

I also like to carry a second card with me in case the card in the camera fails or full.

That's three total.

Check the card's speed rating if possible.  Higher speed translates to less time wasted between pictures.  Capacity is less of an issue.  8 to 16 GB cards provide ample storage for most photographers.

Most cameras use SD cards.  Some compact cameras use Micro SD and high-end DSLR cameras might use Compact Flash.  Make sure you grab the correct format.

Memory cards can be purchased at a local electronics store or the electronics department at WalMart or Target.


Color Management System
Color Management Systems ensure accurate color rendering when printing images.  The PopPhoto article mentions one listed at $89. 

For alternatives, try an Internet search for color management systems/software, colorimeter, color calibrator, or monitor calibrator.

Color management systems can be very expensive, especially those designed for professional level photographers.  A photographer working on a tight budget may not be able to afford one themselves, making this a good gift idea.

This idea probably requires a little more research than the other ones suggested in the article. 


Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable batteries greatly reduce the cost associated with the batteries used by photographic equipment.  A serious photographer can never really have too many.

They're not just used for cameras.  Flash units and portable light sources also require batteries.

The PopPhoto article suggest Eneloop batteries.  Eneloop batteries may not be available at a local store.  It's not a commonly carried brand.  They can be purchased online (the article links to Amazon but they're available on other sites.)  Eneloop batteries tend to be more expensive than competing brands, but they are usually considered the best available.

Other brands will work.  Just make sure to pick a brand that lists capacity on its packaging.  Purchase 2000 mAh or better capacity batteries.  I've had results from Kodak rechargeable batteries.  It's a solid company with a good track record and they list capacity.

Avoid Rayovac.  They no longer list capacity on their packaging and appear to be offering lower capacity batteries than the competition while charging similar prices.


The article suggests other gifts.  These are just the ones I wanted to add my comments on.  Check the article for the rest of PopPhoto's suggestions.