Every year, video expands and improves, and I'm sure nearly everyone knows an aspiring filmmaker. I adore filmmaking and photography, but the amount of equipment required to complete a project is my primary concern. This can include large, essential items such as a camera or lights, as well as small, indispensable items that make life much easier. Check out the following if you're looking for a Christmas gift for a filmmaker or upgrading your equipment.
1.Mavic Pro 2 Zoom Quadcopter
DJI has really taken drones to a new level, which is why this is the future of independent filmmaking. It doesn't matter if you're filming a waterfall from 10 feet off the edge, a car commercial on winding roads in the Andes, or a real estate flythrough of rooms in a mansion; this is the perfect filming platform because it has a range of several miles, automatic object avoidance, ground sensors, a stabilized camera, and the ability to see what the camera will record live on your phone or tablet. Did we mention that it can be folded up to fit inside a small hiking backpack along with all of your other day gear? Now featuring an extended flight time and a zoom lens!
2. Nikon D850
The long-awaited Nikon D850 has a resolution that is comparable to that of medium format cameras, but it goes much further than that. It features a full frame sensor, an ISO range of up to 102400, the ability to record 4K video at 30 frames per second, the ability to create 4K timelapses in-camera (or 8K-ready timelapses without the need for in-camera movie building., 1080p slow-motion video at 120 frames per second, and a large mov
3. The GoPro Fusio
This is a 360-degree, waterproof, digital VR camera with spherical high-definition video, 18-megapixel still images, and overcapture
Not only is this camera capable of shooting in 360 degrees, letting your viewers rotate films that you shot as if they were there with you, and including all of the other features that are standard on GoPro cameras, it now also supports Overcapture. Imagine something similar to having a drone follow you, only the camera will remain attached to you the entire time. Intrigued?
4. Mevo Live Event Camera
This clever little camera is only two inches by two inches, so it can be placed anywhere at events. It also enables you to edit the video on your phone or other mobile device while you are shooting it, and it can stream live to Facebook, YouTube, and other websites.
5.The professional-grade Canon XC15 4K Camcorder
In addition to features such as 4k video recording, a wide-angle 10x zoom lens, advanced autofocus, and image stabilization, this professional camcorder also possesses a small format that is comparable to that of a DSLR, just like its predecessors, which were much more expensive.
6. Gopro Hero 7
The well-known waterproof action camera is constantly being updated with new and improved features. With 4K60 and 1080p240 video, insanely smooth advanced stabilization without a gimbal, an integrated color screen for composing shots and playback, the elimination of the requirement for an external enclosure, touchscreen, voice control, and wifi for transferring footage, is it really possible to make a mistake with this camera? You even have the option of live streaming to Facebook Live and saving your streams to a card. GoPro has really increased the number of features included in their cameras in order to keep up with all of the new competition that is currently out there. We have a sneaking suspicion that they will.
7. Samsung Gear VR
Your videos and 360-degree creations, along with downloadable content, images, and games can all be viewed in a distraction-free environment with the help of the Samsung Gear VR goggles. It comes with a remote control for more convenient navigating.
8. Røde VideoMic
Both single-lens reflex cameras and camcorders can have the Rde VideoMic attached to them. It informs you of how much charge is still available, turns on automatically when the camera does, and charges through a USB cable. A high frequency boost, a safety track with a -10DB level of amplification, two high pass filters, and a variety of power options are also included.
9. The Zhiyun Crane
It is a three-axis handheld gimbal that is compatible with DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
You can now achieve stable footage even when working with older lenses that do not have image stabilization, or with any lens and motion of the camera for that matter. This gimbal can be locked in place, pan-followed, pan-and-tilt followed, or inverted, among other modes. The 1/4-inch screw makes it possible to attach the device to monopods, tripods, and other rigs. Gimbals are no longer exclusive to drones, which is very good news for us.
10. Panasonic Lumix GH5
The Panasonic Lumix camera has been through a number of revisions and keeps getting better with each new version. The Gh5 features internal 4:2:2 10-Bit 4K Video at 24/30p with no crop, 5 axis sensor stabilization, ISO 25600, and a touch screen for easy operation.
11. Filmmaker Mug
This hip mug will help keep your filmmaker motivated and on track, and it will help them speak for themselves.
12. Ivation Rig System for DSLR/video camera
This rig provides you with everything you require, including rods that are the standard in the industry, a follow focus, a matte box, adjustable handgrips, and a shoulder pad, and it does so at an affordable price. It is easy to carry around and is compatible with a wide variety of accessories.
13. Movie camera patent art
This poster, which is printed on aged paper and depicts the movie camera patent art of Thomas Edison, can either be framed or displayed without a frame. A wonderful addition to any workspace as a decoration.
14. Glidecam XR Pro Stabilizer
If you need to stabilize your DSLR or camcorder, your best bet is to get a Glidecam. You won't regret it. It has a payload of 10 pounds, which is sufficient for a diverse selection of cameras, as well as a plate with screws of varying sizes and accessory threads of varying lengths.
15. A Look Back at the Films of Martin Scorsese
This book details Martin Scorsese's film career over the course of 50 years, including his most well-known films such as "Taxi Driver" and "Goodfellas." It is packed with hundreds of behind-the-scenes photos and information. A must-have for any movie fan.
16. Video Blogger Kit
The MiNiSTUDIO Personal US-32 USB audio interface, the large-diaphragm condenser microphone, the mic stand, the pair of studio monitors, the 10 foot XLR cable, and the on-camera single light kit are all included in this excellent starter kit for any video blogger. There is no need for you to search independently for the pieces.
17. Vlogging t-shirt
This shirt is a fitting gift for the one friend of yours who is always recording everything they do, and you know who they are.
18. Canon XA15 Professional Camcorder
The XA15 is a portable camera that offers good performance in low light, a good low light performance, a 20x HD Canon lens, dual SD/SDHC/SDXC media slots, and manual camera controls all at an affordable price.
19. Storyboard 16:9 Notebook
This storyboard notebook contains 120 pages, each of which is arranged vertically to contain four frames. It is also available with one and two frames per page, and it is an excellent tool for quickly sketching out scenes and camera moves while on the move.
20. Blackmagic Design URSA Mini Pro Digital Cinema Camera
For the dedicated filmmaker who wants the very best, including a large Super-35mm CMOS sensor, video resolutions of up to 4608 x 2592 at up to 60 frames per second, an interchangeable lens mount, and the ability to record in CinemaDNG as well as ProRes 444 and 422 formats.
21. Peace Love Filmmaker Passport Holder
This is a thoughtful present idea for your filmmaker to consider receiving if he or she travels quite a bit. carries a passport in addition to other travel documents.
22. Adobe Photoshop Elements & Premiere Elements
This package provides the aspiring filmmaker with the most recent version of Premiere Elements, which allows for simple drag-and-drop video editing up to a resolution of 4k, as well as Photoshop Elements, which can be used to create any still graphics that they want to include in the edited piece (or for standalone art and photo editing..
23. DJI OSMO Handheld 4K Camera System
This little beauty has a built-in 3-axis gimbal, so you can record fully stabilized 4k video at 24 frames per second. And we do mean little. You can even use an app to remotely control the gimbal and take still photographs with it.
24. Tripod model UltraPod II equipped with a Mini Ball Head
This ingenious little tripod has the ability to function as a standard tripod as well as attach to a variety of objects in the field using the strap that is included.
25. Astronomy Camera
For the filmmaker who has an interest in astronomy. This incredible video camera gives you the ability to record colorful nebulae and galaxies.
26. Video Tripod System & Dolly Kit
You will receive both a robust video tripod as well as a dolly, which will allow you to take tracking shots with ease. Not only that, but the dolly also allows you to change the height at which the camera is mounted.
27. 3800 Watt Softbox Video Lighting Kit Light Kit
This package provides everything required to set up a camera for filming, and everything can be folded up and stored in the carry case that is also included.
28. Video Camera Bag
This nifty camera bag is equipped with a protective shell that is resistant to water, a detachable interior bucket, shoulder straps, trolley straps, and adjustable dividers to keep all of your equipment secure.
29. Smartphone Video Rig
A smartphone mount is one component of this ingenious rig for mobile devices, which also features two standard shoe mounts for attaching accessories. You can choose to use it with both hands for increased stability, or it can be mounted on tripods or dollies instead. Horizontal or vertical.
30. Zbook Mobile Workstation
If you're a creative professional who needs to work on the go, like a video editor, then this laptop has more than enough power to get the job done. It has a display measuring 17.3 inches and a resolution of 1920 by 1080, 16 gigabytes of random access memory, a quad-core processor, and solid state storage.
31. Movie mug with quotes
Contains over 2 dozen movie quotes. You could even make a game out of it if you guessed, but be careful not to spill that hot drink!
32. Rebel without a Crew
Robert Rodriguez explains how he made El Mariachi on a shoestring budget, as well as how to save thousands of dollars on film school and teach film production, directing, and screenwriting to yourself. Useful book!
33. PowerVision PowerRay Wizard Underwater Drone
Whether you're a scuba diver or a fisherman, this drone kit will turn your hopes and dreams of filming yourself underwater into a reality. The included 4k camera has a depth rating of 30 meters and the ability to capture images in low light. These features make it an ideal choice for capturing breathtaking imagery, whether wreck diving or observing marine life.
34. Film Countdown Backpack
Backpack made of lightweight canvas with a classic look for children of elementary school age
35. Parrot Bebop Drone
Even if there is not a lot of light, you'll still be able to shoot in high definition with this more affordable and compact drone kit. Bring it with you on your next hike or photo shoot at sunset and put it in your backpack.
36. The Pocket Lawyer for Filmmakers
A lawsuit is a lot more expensive than this alternative. This guide will also tell you, among many other things, how to protect your concept, how to use your state's film tax credits to fund your film, how to get a script to popular Hollywood actors, and the answers to hundreds of other questions.
37. Sony 4K SXRD Laser Projector
Your 4K movie should be viewed in 4K resolution on a display that is significantly larger than a standard TV.
38. Classic Movie Theater Machine Curtains
The fact that these curtains are versatile enough to work in any space should make your aspiring filmmaker very happy.
39. Virtual Reality Glasses
These VR goggles come with a remote for easy navigation, are compatible with Android and iPhones, and can be yours for less than $30. You do not need to spend hundreds of dollars on VR goggles with a long cord in order to be able to watch your footage in privacy.
40. Movie Clapper Board Cufflinks
Whether you are an actor, a fan, a director, or a producer of film, these handcrafted cufflinks will make for a cool conversation piece.
41. Digital Camera Service Plan for Digital Cameras
It is smart to purchase an extended warranty for your camera because it is a significant investment, particularly if you are a filmmaker working independently.
42. Gift card
Why not get the director of your favorite film a gift card if you think they would enjoy the freedom of choosing their own present? (or if they are just exceedingly challenging to shop for.
43. 2 Year Drone Service Plan
Let's face it: drones are capable of a wide variety of illogical behaviors, such as discovering a tree or power line on their "go home" path or even discovering a small body of water that you were unaware even existed. It is beneficial to have a plan for repair or replacement in place for those "rare" instances.
44. FilmStruck subscription
They provide you with streaming access to films that are more difficult to locate, such as contemporary and classic art house films, independent films, foreign films, and cult films.
45. The Filmmaker Says: Quotes, Quips, and Words of Wisdom
A compilation of sayings and thoughts from more than a hundred of the most influential and opinionated filmmakers in the history of film. You could even make it into a game by having people guess who said what.
46. Actor Parking Novelty Sign
A thoughtful present for those who work with actors.
47. Filmmaker Wrap Bracelet
Ticket stub and movie camera charms are attached to a bracelet that was handmade.
48. Written and Directed By Canvas Tote Bag
This heavy-weight item, which can be used as a grocery bag, library tote, or beach tote, is a great way to proudly display your occupation or hobby. Other possible uses include carrying books.
49. Filmmaker Drive sign
This sign would look great on the door to your office or your dorm room; it would even look good outside.
50. Dry Erase Director’s Film Clapboard
A production set is not complete without a clapboard, but you can also give it as a gift or use it as a conversation piece.
51. Masterclass Subscription
There's nothing like learning from the masters. A Masterclass subscription provides exactly that — a series of video lessons from some of the most accomplished professionals in the filmmaking field. There's a class for everyone, whether your giftee is inspired by Shonda Rhimes' numerous hit TV shows, Ken Burns' documentaries, or Aaron Sorkin's quick writing.
52. Billingham Camera Bag
A good camera bag is essential for any on-the-go filmmaker. Billingham's Hadley pro bag, made of khaki canvas and leather, is one of the best compact camera carryalls for busy photographers (available in other colorways). It combines style and substance for a reasonable price, and it also fits a lot of gear.
53. Dragon Touch 4K Sports Camera
Filmmakers must be prepared to adapt to a wide range of climates and conditions, especially if they want to make a documentary. While a Go Pro may come to mind, Dragon Touch's 4K Ultra HD Vision 3 action camera is an equally viable option that performs better — particularly underwater. The waterproof camera has a 160-degree wide-angle lens, Wi-Fi, 4X zoom, time lapse/slow motion, and driving mode.
54. Joby Gorilla Pod
When filming, the Gorilla Pod provides critical versatility. It can be used as a regular tripod and is an excellent complement to any camera (including smartphones) and is ideal for curved or uneven surfaces.
55. In The Blink of An Eye by Francis Ford Coppola
If your giftee is still learning the ins and outs of editing, In the Blink of An Eye is a great place to start. As Oscar-winning director Francis Ford Coppola (who frequently collaborates with the author) can attest, the award-winning book by film editor, director, writer, and sound designer Walter Murch is the blueprint for film editing.
56. Master & Dynamic MW65 Headphones
It's impossible to edit a movie if you can't hear every single sound your microphone picks up. Master and Dynamic is the industry leader in sound quality, and its MW65 headphones feature active noise cancellation.
57. 100 Movie Set Terms Poster
This poster of film terms will help moviegoers and filmmakers of all ages brush up on their set knowledge — or learn new ones.
58. Cheap Movie Tricks by Rickey Bird
This book by filmmaker and writer Rickey Bird is a good choice for low-budget film enthusiasts who are just starting out. According to The Walking Dead actor Vincent M. Ward, this 288-page book will teach readers how to turn "any film project into a piece of art." After all, it only takes one great film to launch a career.
59. SD Card Holder
Having multiple memory cards active at the same time is a normal part of being a filmmaker. And a clever gift could be something to hold everything together. Kiorafoto's card holder holds 12 SD cards and is completely waterproof.
60. DJI OM 5 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer
Smartphone cameras are becoming a more viable option for filmmaking. But having a great camera is useless if you can't hold your phone steady. DJI's three-axis OM 5 gimbal stabilizer does just that, improving the movie-making experience for mobile content creators and aspiring directors.
61. Lenovo ThinkVision Monitor
There are numerous excellent monitors available, but versatility is essential. The Lenovo ThinkVision M14 is one of the best portable monitors for on-the-go video editing, playback, online browsing, and movie viewing — the ideal combination for a filmmaker. And, in terms of monitors, it's a relatively inexpensive gift.
62. Compact Lights
If there is one thing that cannot be overstated, it is the importance of light in filmmaking. Now, I'm not saying you should buy a big ol' lighting kit for your buddy—they should already have something—but an ultra-portable light that can serve in roles that a standard kit can't is a good option. The Aputure MC RGBWW LED Light is a good example. This ultra-lightweight light can produce nearly any color and includes special effects such as Paparazzi, Fireworks, Police Car, and others. This is ideal for creating distinct looks or effects, or even as a tiny fill light in a small space. It's definitely worth a look, and any aspiring filmmaker would benefit from having one.
63. Production Slate
A slate makes a small production look and feel more professional. It's also an extremely useful tool. The slate is primarily used to help sync audio in post when using dual-system sound, but all of the notes written on it for each take will help keep your shoot and edit organized. Using one on set, no matter how small the production, is a very good habit.
64. Portable Storage
Video takes up a lot of space, and newer cameras with higher resolutions and frame rates make filmmakers even more anxious. Fast portable storage is always useful, and small SSDs are the best bet for keeping valuable video safe. Nothing is more frustrating than losing footage due to a faulty drive. For a standard drive, Samsung offers the highly rated T5 SSD in a variety of sizes and colors. A wireless drive that can perform card backups is invaluable when shooting on location, and the GNARBOX 2.0 is a good example of that.
65. Camera Cage
Determine the type of camera used by the filmmaker in your life and purchase a cage for it. Cages make it much easier to configure cameras for video by providing a large number of threads and attachment points. These metal exoskeletons also relieve stress on the camera (specifically the hot shoe) and protect it from damage. To me, usefulness with the added benefit of protection seems like a fantastic upgrade.
66. Gray Card and Color Charts
File this under things no one realizes they were missing until they find it. When it comes to post-production, gray cards and color charts are invaluable tools. They make obtaining a base color grade extremely quick and efficient. Some software will even detect it and apply the necessary fixes for you! If your filmmaker friend does not already have one, they will appreciate it greatly. Get the X-Rite ColorChecker Passport Video, which is pocket-sized for easy transport.
67. Monitor/Recorder
Capturing video relies heavily on obtaining a properly exposed and focused image. The best way to do so is with a good monitor, and no, the one on the back of the camera is not always adequate. The Atomos Shinobi 5.2" 4K HDMI Monitor, for example, will provide a larger, brighter image with scopes, focus peaking, and other tools to ensure your capture is as good as it can be. If you want to go even further, consider upgrading your gift to a monitor/recorder combo, such as the Atomos Ninja V, which can do everything the previously mentioned monitor can do plus record in less compressed formats.
68. On-Camera Microphone
A good video can be ruined by bad audio. A dedicated microphone is an easy way to get better audio, and there are numerous small ones that just pop right onto whatever camera you're using. These on-camera shotgun mics are far superior to any in-camera mic, and some even allow you to control the sound quality. Shotgun microphones are useful because they capture audio from a single direction and reduce ambient noise to limit distractions. And, if you want to get a filmmaker an on-camera mic, the RODE VideoMic Pro is the gold standard.
69. Wireless Audio System
What's better than an on-camera microphone that you plug into your camera? One that is wireless. Fortunately, wireless audio systems have become more affordable and compact in recent years, with the RDE Wireless GO being a prime example. Connect your camera to the receiver, then plug in your existing microphone or purchase a new lavalier. Eliminating cables is a liberating experience that I wholeheartedly recommend.
70. Portable Audio Recorder
One more thing about audio because, if you haven't already guessed, audio is extremely important and frequently overlooked. Going direct to the camera is useful and convenient, but for the best results, you should switch to dual-system sound. This necessitates the use of a separate, dedicated audio recorder as well as professional-grade microphones. Hopefully, you'll have a dedicated sound recordist to help you out. Specialized tools, such as audio recorders, provide enhanced controls and quality that are not available elsewhere. The Zoom H4n Pro is a good choice for getting started, though I prefer the Tascam DR-10L for on-talent setups and, for more serious setups, the Sound Devices MixPre-3 II can record 32-bit float, which is essential raw audio with tons of latitude in post.
71. Drone
Now comes the exciting part: drones. Drones are used to achieve aerial video and exciting camera moves, which are popular today for punching up the look of a video. DJI is the market leader in consumer drones, and I would recommend two options. Choose the Mavic Mini if you believe the recipient will use it for fun and limited filmmaking experiments, or the Mavic 2 Pro for true cinematic 4K video.
