Christmas Gifts for Photographers 2025 – Cameras, Lenses & Gear Guide

The holidays are a great moment to surprise photographers and filmmakers with gear they actually use. Here is a curated list of products I own or have tested in-depth. Everything is grouped by price so you can quickly pick a budget range.

Gift Ideas for Photographers & Filmmakers 2025

Rule of thumb: the best gift is something the recipient truly needs. If you are unsure, go for supportive categories like memory cards, batteries, or cleaning tools—those are never too many.

Budget: 20–50 CHF (Small Accessories)

SD Cards (UHS-II)

Fast cards are essential for 4K video and RAW bursts. Aim for V90 UHS-II; a solid 128 GB option often sits near 50 CHF. Several smaller cards are safer than one big card.

Batteries (Tilta NP-FZ100 / Sony OEM)

A spare battery is always welcome for longer shoots. The Tilta NP-FZ100 is a budget-friendly alternative for Sony A7 bodies with 2400 mAh capacity.

JJC Air Blower

First line of defense for sensor cleaning—removes loose dust safely without contact. Often fixes most spots without fluid.

Rollei & VSGO Swabs

For stubborn dirt the blower cannot remove. Sized for FF / APS-C / MFT, consistently good results with fluid.

SmallRig Clamp Mount

Handy clamp with screw for attaching cameras, monitors, or accessories to tables, tripods, and rigs.

Macro Extension Tubes (Meike)

Affordable way to get closer focus for macro without buying a dedicated lens. Check mount compatibility (e.g., L-Mount) and search for “extension tube” if your shop hides them.

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Budget: 50–150 CHF (Practical Gifts)

Peak Design Slide (full size)

Wide, padded shoulder strap with Anchor Links—comfortable for heavier bodies over long shoots. The Leash version is slimmer and lighter for smaller cameras, well suited for street and travel with APSC or compact bodies.

SmallRig RF-10C Video Light

Compact bi-color light—great for product shots, window-mimic backgrounds, or fill on video. Lightweight and budget-friendly in this tier.

Fuji Instax Mini (Instant Camera)

A fun instant camera for parties and quick keepsakes. Films are consumables, but the experience is priceless.

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Tripods & Work Essentials: 100–300 CHF

Leofoto LS-223C (Compact Table Tripod)

Lightweight carbon table tripod with high load capacity—great for tabletop, product shoots, YouTube, or travel. Comes with ball head, spikes, and rubber feet.

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Lighting & Effects: 300–800 CHF

Nanlite FC-120B / FC-60B (LED)

Compact bi-color LEDs with solid color accuracy (CRI >95), USB-C power flexibility, app control, and Bowens adapter. Can run from power bank or V-mount for mobile setups.

Check the LED database for comparisons:

Ulanzi FM01 Filmog Ace (Fog Machine)

Portable fog machine with 36 adjustable effects, remote control, and carry bag—adds atmosphere for shoots and events.

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Lenses: 400–1200 CHF

Sony 50mm F/1.8

Classic portrait and street focal length—lightweight and versatile.

Tamron 90mm F/2.8 Di III MACRO VXD

1:1 macro with excellent sharpness and quick AF—great for details, products, and even portraits.

Tamron 16-30mm F/2.8 Di III VXD

Wide-angle zoom for landscapes, architecture, and interiors with constant f/2.8 and strong corner sharpness.

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Premium Tripods: 300–600 CHF

Leofoto LS-325C + LH-40 Kit

Trusted carbon travel/studio tripod—about 1.95 kg, packs to 54.5 cm, rated to ~12 kg. Includes LH-40 ball head, bag, spikes, rubber feet, and multitool.

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Cameras: 800+ CHF (Premium)

Sony ZV-E10 II (Vlogging & Travel)

26 MP hybrid vlogging body with modern AF and Sony’s latest menu. Light kit zoom included; lacks EVF and IBIS but great for travel and daily video.

Sony A6700 (APS-C Pro)

Same 26 MP sensor as ZV-E10 II but with EVF, IBIS, mechanical shutter, tougher body, and more controls—ideal for action, wildlife, and serious APS-C shooting.

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Gift Sets by Budget (CHF)

Two kits per price point so you can pick what fits the recipient best.

Budget ~80–120 CHF

Budget ~150–200 CHF

Budget ~250–350 CHF

Budget ~400–500 CHF

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