15 Gift Ideas for Photographers

Do you know what is the hardest thing in life? No, it's not learning Java script, or how to pilot a plane. Some may argue, but one of the hardest things in life is is actually choosing a gift for someone you care.

A good way to start is probably by trying to remember what that person likes doing, what his passion and hobbies are. Today, when almost everyone has a DSLR, and "[put a name]photography.com" website (heck, even I have one!), you probably can't go wrong with a gift related to photography. That's why we want to show you this list of 15 cool photography gadgets. The items vary from useful to fun, but we hope you'll find what you're looking for!

The Super-Secret Spy Lens

Meant to fit the end of your SLR's zoom lens, this guy has a secret cut-out on the side and a precision mirror assembly inside. In short, you can shoot left, right, up, or down (it swivels 360 degrees), all while appearing to shoot straight ahead. (Available here: link)

Camera USB Drive

Just like a real DSLR, the lens detaches from the camera body. But lo, what is this? The lens is a USB stick, a most unique and stylish device for getting your photos and files from Point A to Point B (and even C and D!). (Available here: 1, 2)

The Camera Lens Mug

Mugs that are so realistic, you might have to use post-its just to remind yourself which is for coffee and which is for taking photos. (Available here: nikon mug, canon mug)

Inflatable Photo Studio

Inflatable portable studio has been officially released, U.S. company recently introduced a portable studio that can be inflated, referred to as IPS.It is reported that this inflatable studio (Inflatable Photo Studio, IPS) takes only three minutes to blow up, very fast and easy to use! Provided a total of two models to choose from, small 3.6 × 2 × 3m, large 6 × 3.6 × 3.6m, priced at 350 dollars and 500 U.S. dollars. (link)

Camera Phone Lenses

Attach to your cell phone and transform your standard flat phone photos into wide and up-close wonders.They work with any camera phone and attaching them is easy breezy! A detachable magnetic ring sticks to your cell, providing a sturdy, shake-free hold between the lens and your phone. (Available here: 1, 2, 3, 4)

Corner Frames

Designed by Yvonne Schroeder from German company Details, corner picture frames give solution for decorating the inside and outside corners of any wall. (link)

Mini Model Camera With 3 Lenses

"This rare and tiny gem is a superbly detailed and a very real-looking 1/6 scale model of your own life-sized DSLR with every button, screen, switch, n' dial in place. And just when you thought it couldn't get any more want-worthy, three detachable lenses are included with removable lens hoods, too!" (link)

Photoshop Fridge Magnets

Though they won't allow you to Edit > Undo that over-seasoned soup, or clone stamp a hole in your pie crust they can make you feel a little more at home in your kitchen. (link)

SLR Pinhole Lens

Simply slap this lens on your camera body for a lo-fi pinhole look (link)

Lens Bracelets

Designed exclusively for camera-obsessed photogs, this soft silicone bracelet is a replica of your lens' focusing ring. (link)

The Level Camera Cube

The Level Camera Cube that slides into your camera's hot shoe. Simply point at your subject and align the bubbles to set up a straight and narrow frame. (Available here: link)

The Bottle Cap Tripod

Need a tripod in a jiff? Grab the nearest soda or water bottle, stick on the Bottle Cap Tripod, and you're set! Self-portraits, group photos on self-timer, and steady low-light shots just became a whole lot easier! (Available here: 1, 2)

Photoshop Frame

Designer Irina Blok has created the world’s first analog photoshop frame. Unfortunately it doesn't seem to be available for sale anymore. Only 50 frames were produced (for $50 a pop!)... and they sold out like hot cakes (link)

Camera Lamp

Transparent House chose a vintage camera and flipped the whole notion behind the camera: instead of taking in light, the camera is now the source. (link)

Cloak Bag

The Cloak™ bag is the world’s first shoot-through camera bag that allows a user with a DSLR or SLR camera to take photos without removing the camera from the safety of the bag. It’s the perfect fit for travelers or any photographer who has missed a shot simply because the camera was left in the bag. (link)