A woman with a camera set up on a tripod capturing the sunset over the sea.

Gift Ideas

25 Gift Ideas for Photographers

7th August 2025

If you’re not into photography yourself, it can be difficult to think of presents for a camera enthusiast. To stop you panic scrolling through the options or overspending on your stocking fillers, we’ve broken down our recommendations, covering a range of budgets. From special occasions to small treats, here are some gift ideas for the photographer in your life.

Gifts for beginners

If your loved one is just getting started out on their photography journey, then giving thoughtful basics can make them feel very special.

Accessory bag

One of our most practical gifts for photographers, it’s one they’ll love nonetheless! As they build up their kit collection, a camera accessory bag will help a photographer keep everything safe and organised. From shoulder bags to backpacks, there are options to suit their style and preferences. Opt for one in their favourite colour, a striking pattern or a model with memory foam for extra comfort.

A man leaning over a rock, holding a camera, with a backpack on his back.

Memory cards

There’s nothing worse than running out of space during a photoshoot and not being able to do anything about it. Having spare memory cards can be a lifesaver. Storage space tends to start at 16GB, but to capture high-quality images (particularly in RAW format) you need a lot more room, so we’d recommend buying a 32GB or 64GB card. For an extra thoughtful set, add in a memory card case to help them stay organised.

Camera strap

Straps that come with cameras might not be comfortable. A thicker, softer camera strap can vastly improve their overall photography experience. It can help to reduce neck ache, especially from wearing a camera for long periods of time. Plus, a colourful, patterned option will express your loved one’s creativity and act as an ID tag for their camera.

A camera in the snow, with its strap arranged in the shape of a heart.

Entry-level flash unit

The vast majority of compact and DSLR cameras have a built in or pop up flash for artificial lighting. But for photographers looking to up their skills, an external flash is their first step to an intermediate lighting setups. Offering greater control over angles and exposure, they’re a great way for beginners to get started with artificial lighting.

Photography courses

Give your loved one a head start by buying a subscription for a photography course. There are lots to choose from online, whether you want to cover off the must-have skills or help them deep-dive into a specialist interest like pet, still life or food photography. Many also allow enthusiasts to complete the tasks at their own speed or give them lots of inspiration to get started.

Budget-friendly options

For smaller gifts for friends or Christmas stocking fillers, here are some options that won’t break the bank.

Photography book

There are a huge number of different books with tips and inspiration out there. Here are some you might want to consider:

Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson: a must-have for learning the art of exposure, even in the trickiest outdoor conditions.
On Photography by Susan Sontag: this is perfect for keeping photographers inspired and motivated, suitable for any level.
The Camera by Ansel Adams: the first of a series of three books which cover all the techniques a photographer could ever need.
Light: Science and Magic by Fil Hunter, Paul Fuqua and Steven Biver: this will help enthusiasts get the setup and know-how they need to create special images.
Magnum Contact Sheets by Kristen Lubben: for photographers trying to find their style, this collection of images from 69 experts will inspire and excite.

Shutter remote control

To give photographers more flexibility in their setup, wireless shutter remotes are invaluable. It means they don’t need to be touching their camera to get great images. Plus, it can help reduce camera shake and image blur. Usually bluetooth-enabled, they can also be connected to different cameras.

A camera set up on a tripod capturing a father and child sitting on a couch.

Camera cleaning kit

To keep their gear functioning well and looking great, a cleaning kit is invaluable and not expensive. Buy a ready-made pack or put your own together with some lens wipes, a microfibre cloth, and a compressed air blower. This will help them keep their camera and lenses sparkling.

Filters

Filters do a whole lot more than protect the lens. They can help a photographer achieve different effects too. Basic filters include:

UV reducing: UV filters combat haze in the atmosphere. If photographing near the sea, high altitudes or in snow, UV filters are a must.
Polarizing: Used to darken skies, manage reflections and suppress glare.
Warming: Improves colour to skin tones and absorbs any blue colour caused by a flash.

A close-up lens with "Close Up +4 77mm" written on its edge, resting on a wooden surface.

Reusable silicone food containers

If your loved one is out on shoot days or in the studio for longer than expected, then they’ll silently thank you for giving them these. Easy to pack into photography bags, they come in a variety of sizes and are ideal for fitting in snacks or small meals.

Presents for a special occasion

When it’s time to splash out for a big birthday, anniversary or over the festive season, invest in one of the following options.

Lenses

As gifts for photographers go, a new lens is definitely at the higher end of the spectrum, but is bound to put a smile on their face. If they’re keen to try detailed, close up photography, a macro lens is a great option. Or, if they want a way to enhance their landscape shots, they might need a wide angle lens. If they’re not sure, consider used equipment or put some money on a gift card so they can choose their own.

High-quality tripod

Lightweight and durable, top notch tripods are packable and easy to carry. Plus, their sturdy design means they can be set up and left without a photographer worrying about it collapsing. Make sure it's compatible with their camera type and weight. Some may also have extra features like central columns and removable legs.

A camera with a strap and a folded tripod resting on a wooden surface, overlooking a scenic view of mountains during sunrise or sunset.

Wall art

If you want to make your loved one feel special but don’t have a huge budget, turning one of their favourite photos into a piece of wall art is a great option. Depending on the image and their preferred style, opt for a gallery, poster or aluminium print. Multi panels, photo strips or collages give you the opportunity to print several photos together.

Two black-and-white framed photographs on a wall, one showing people jumping over water and the other showing a wooden pathway leading into the distance. These are above a couch.

Graphics drawing tablet

To take their editing capabilities to the next level, invest in a graphics drawing tablet for your recipient. Once hooked up to their computer, it can help them achieve pinpoint precision when adjusting photos. Plus, they can start creating their own graphics or pieces of digital art more easily.

Lens adapters

A lens adapter is a device that enables otherwise incompatible cameras and lenses to be combined. Whether they want to switch from close-up to wide-angle or attach a vintage lens for a new look, lens adapters are a vital piece of kit. It’ll open up opportunities to experiment with different combinations and create new, exciting effects.

A person swapping camera lenses outdoors, holding a camera body with one lens attached and another lens in their other hand.

Gifts for outdoor photographers

If your loved one likes getting out in the elements or on photo walks and capturing wildlife or landscapes, here are some gifts they’ll love.

Waterproof camera cover or rain sleeves

To help outdoor photographers keep their kit (and themselves) dry while out in rainy or wintry conditions, waterproof covers and sleeves are invaluable. Easily packable and attachable while allowing them to shoot, make sure you choose the correct size for their setup that’s made from waterproof and thermal materials.

Pop-up wildlife photography tent

Let your loved one see everything without being seen with this specially-designed shelter. The camo colours and pop-up design makes it quick and easy for them to set up for the day. Add in a flask and foldable stool for extra comfort as they wait for that magic moment.

A tent looking out into the mountains with a warm sunset during golden hour.

Cold weather gear

Feet and hand warmers will help a photographer stay comfortable in all weathers and stop their fingers being numb at the crucial moment. Photography gloves with touch-sensitive fingertips are particularly good for this purpose. A heated vest or jacket will keep them cosy even on long winter shoots.

Charging blocks

Make sure they don’t lose power at the crucial moment by investing in a portable charging bank. Choose an option with plenty of different outlets and lots of battery space so they can plug in lots of different pieces of kit at once. Also make sure the inputs and outputs are compatible with their gear so it’s fully usable.

A camera on a tripod capturing a scenic sunset view of mountains, a lake, and grassy hills.

Ideas for experienced photographers

If your friend or family member has been taking photos for years (or does it professionally) here are a few gift options to consider.

Studio lighting kits

Elevate their indoor shooting abilities by giving a studio lighting set. It may include booms, LED grids, light tents and softboxes or more depending on how much you want to spend. Plus, they all come in a handy case that your loved one can move from place to place. If they’re interested in portraits or product photography, this is a great option.

A photographer in a studio setting taking pictures of someone posing in front of a black backdrop, with professional lighting equipment set up around them.

Gear tracker

Bluetooth tags or GPS trackers can be attached to backpacks and cases so a photographer always knows where their most precious gear is. This is essential if they take their kit abroad or are regularly travelling between shoots.

Digital business card bracelet

Even if your loved one isn’t a professional photographer, this bracelet makes it easy for them to share their portfolios with people who are interested. Simply link it to a website or social media account and people can find their work in no time.

Collapsible stool

If they’re hanging about for a long time during shoots, then your friend or family member will thank you every time they sit on their collapsible stool. Those who spend a lot of time outdoors or want to set up comfortably in studios will also find this helpful.

A person sitting outdoors during sunset, holding a camera with a telephoto lens, capturing the scenic landscape.

Calendar

Help your loved one stay on top of jobs while staying inspired by creating a Fineline Calendar of all their favourite shots. They can fix it to their studio wall or have it on their desk ready to plan any photography trips or big events they want to cover.

The best gift for all photographers

For any photographer, collating their favourite images together in a high quality photo book will create a special, unique gift. Whether you set their landscape images into a large format or collect a particular project into a small memento, you can personalise the photobook to suit your loved one’s images and the special occasion you’re buying for.

Alternatively, if you don’t have access to their photos or want to let them create their own photo book or portfolio, get them a CEWE Gift Voucher.

A flexible gift for any occasion

CEWE Gift Voucher

Inspire creativity with a CEWE Gift Voucher

Give the creative types in your life the chance to make something amazing out of their photos - gift values up to £100.