No Film School’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Filmmakers

Are you having trouble finding the right gift to give the filmmaker in your family? We have the perfect gift for you, even if your goal is to pamper yourself.

This is how it looks. You’re in the holiday season and you are opening a gift with your name on it. The box feels heavy and you dare not shake it—the contents might be fragile! Do you really want the new camera? Maybe you are hoping for a DVD set. LOST? Or how about the light-meter Stanley Kubrick used? Barry Lyndon? Could it be?!

Nope. Not even close. It’s a pair socks.

It can seem impossible to find the perfect gift for the filmmaker in the family, no matter how much we love keeping our feet warm during winter. Santa Spielberg, our saint Nick, was able to help us find the perfect gift. Be they a cinematographer, screenwriter, or cinephile, these gift ideas will make your gift-getter freak out like they just got a Nintendo 64 in 1996. 

To start off this list, we recommend checking out B&H’s Cyber Monday deals! Continue reading if you still can’t locate what you’re looking. Send this entire article to your dad, mom, or anyone else looking for gift ideas for you. They will appreciate it, I promise.

For Cinematographers, Gear Heads, and Creatives

This section is ideal for creatives who are passionate about cameras. From cameras to camera accessories, and all the tools you need to work with your footage, these gift ideas are going to knock some socks off—hopefully literally. 

Cameras

• FujiFilm X-H2s (New Release) – The newest camera from Fuji, the X-H2s is a hybrid mirrorless camera that shoots ProRes internally in 6K and does RAW to an external recorder. It is ideal for both professionals and hobbyists. 
• Fujifilm GFX 100S ($500 off) – The GFX 100S medium-format camera is among the most affordable on the market. This camera has been loved by landscape photographers and portrait photographers since its debut. You also have solid video options. Although it isn’t great for beginners, pros who need a larger frame will find the GFX a good choice. 
• Fujifilm X-T4 ($150 off) – The X-T4 from Fuji is the hobbyist camera everyone had in their pocket, but it also had the features to make it a solid B-cam for pros. It can be used for both photos and videos. The Fujifilm X-T5 is now available in the wild. 
• ​Canon EOS R5 C ($200 off) – Canon wants this hybrid camera to rule all hybrid cameras, and with its feature set, it could do just that. The R5 C features fully dedicated modes for video and photo, and a full frame that produces 8K video. 45MP. This is the ideal kit for wedding photographers. This kit is also great for film and document work.
• ​Sony FX30 (New Release) – Sony’s return in APS-C/Super35-sized sensors is the FX30. It is also one of the most affordable cinema cameras (right next to BMPCC 6K and 6K G2). The FX30 is the perfect companion for solo filmmakers, whether they’re digital content creators or cinematographers.
• BMPCC 6K G2 New Release – Blackmagic Design’s most recent release, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2, is available now. This is not only the most affordable RAW-capable cinema camera on the market, but also boasts an image that rivals expensive cameras. It’s a great choice for beginners or those who are trying to make movies on a tight budget.
• Canon EOS R5 C ($200 off) – Bridging the best of both worlds, the Canon EOS R5 C is a solid choice for documentary work or other hybrid shooters. The Canon EOS R5 C is also the first Canon camera that can record 8K 60P Cinema RAW Light footage.
• Canon EOS R7 & Canon EOS R10 – Two affordable APS-C options by Canon, the R7 & R10 pack 4K video in a compact package. The R7 also gives you 4K60 10-Bit Video, HDR-PQ & C-Log 3. These cameras are both excellent entry-level options for videographers as well as photographers. 
• Canon EOS C70: This is Canon’s smallest Super35 cinema camera. However, don’t let this fool you. The C70 is a powerful camera that has been updated frequently to make it one the most supported on the market.
• Canon RF 5.2mm f/2.8 L Dual Fisheye 3D VR Lens ($200 off) – If you thought VR was out of your budget, think again. This dual fisheye lens from Canon takes your Canon R5 and makes it into a production machine that can capture stereoscopic 3D 180° VR imagery to a single image sensor. 

Lenses

• Cinema Lenses These tools are the best for filmmakers. These lenses are built like tanks and have precise focus and aperture control. They also give off a unique character that is not possible with other lenses. These are our top picks for filmmakers who want to have a cinematic edge.
  • DZOFilm Pictor Zoom PL-mount Set ($200 off) – This pair of lenses is affordable and delivers as much as more expensive options. The focal range you can use it for gives you the power of six lenses in just two. This set is great for anyone who needs quick framing. 
  • Sirui Mars 1.33x Anamorphic Lens Set- Sirui produces some of the best anamorphic lenses available. The MFT-mount set is almost half the price of a single lens from any other manufacturer. Although they aren’t as sharp as higher-end glass, the images they produce can be stunning.
  • Sirui Venus Anamorphic Lens Set, 1.6x – Same affordability but with a full frame and an RF mount. These would be a great set of lenses if you had spent all your money buying a RED Komodo. This set won’t break the bank and you will have amazing images to use in your projects. 
  • IRIX Cine entry set – IRIX has a relatively recent lens line up compared with other brands. Solid glass is extremely affordable, and they produce amazing images. This entry set is available in EF-mount. It includes a 21mm and 20mm lens, as well as a 45mm and a 45mm lens. These lenses are also available in PL-mount, Sony E, Canon RF and Leica L. 
• Photography Lenses Photography glass is a great way for you to save money, even though they are not as well-machined as cinema lenses. Many may include optical image stabilization or autofocus. Here are some of the top choices. 
  • Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II – A solid choice for Sony shooters, the 24-70mm is light, quick to focus, and covers a favorable focal range.
  • Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM – A rival to the Sony lens above, this RF mount Canon lens has image stabilization and a constant aperture. 
  • Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8 L IS USM ($400 off) – A counterpart to the previous Canon, the 15-35mm is a bit wider. 
  • Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2R WR – This is the lens to get if you shoot on Fuji. It is fast and sharp, with a unique personality that may be lacking in the other two. It is, at least, in our opinion. 
  • Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 III ($300 off) – This is one of the fastest lenses on the market, making it a perfect tool for low-light shooting, either for photos or cinema. You can also get it in the Sony E, Canon RF and Nikon Z mounts. It will cover full frame.
  • Venus Optics Laowa Argus 35mm f/0.95 FF Lens ($250 off) – Another crazy-fast lens, the Argus is a bit wider and a bit more expensive, but it’s also available in Canon RF, Sony E, and Nikon Z mounts. 
• Accessories – Matte boxes and follow focus units, batteries, and many other items. These are some items that you will need to kit your camera for any production. 
  • Tilta Nucleus-M Wireless Follow Focus System – Tilta upended the market with this set, becoming one of the most affordable follow-focus units out there. This kit is still solid and will not break the bank. 
  • Tilta Nucleus Nano Wireless Following Focus System – Tilta did the same with the Nucleus M. It did the same with the Nucleus Nano. This wireless follow focus kit is just below $300 and can be used with any lens.
  • SmallRig MagicFIZ wireless follow system – SmallRig, the creator of cages that can be used with all types of cameras, also wanted a piece Tilta’s cake. They also created a wireless follow-focus system that is affordable.
  • Atomos Ninja V 5K Monitor/Recorder-The Atomos Ninja can record ProRes RAW footage with one of the two available external monitors/recorders. It is also a remarkable monitor. 
  • Blackmagic Design Video Assist 7″ – If Atomos was the first RAW recorder, then the BMD Video Assist is the competition. This monitor/recorder allows creatives use BRAW in conjunction with their cameras. If you prefer a smaller footprint, it is also available in a 5″ model. 
  • SmallHD 702 Touch 7″ Monitor – This monitor from SmallHD will be used on many ARRI cameras. This monitor is not the most affordable, but it will work well for you and your colleagues. It will not record RAW video or any other type of video but it will deliver a clear image that is bright and accurate in color. 

Gimbals & Drones, Computers & More

• DJI Mavic 3 classic – The Mavic 3 was an amazing drone when it first came out. DJI has brought it back with the Mavic 3 Classic. It’s ideal for digital content, but it can also be used in the cinema. 
• DJI Mini 3 Pro: This tiny drone offers pro features and is smaller than the US federal weight limit. You don’t even need a license. This drone is a great starter drone for those who want to explore aerial photography, videography, and cinematography. 
• DJI Inspire 2 – Raising the price and feature set, the Inspire 2 was a solid professional drone. It’s a good option for professionals who want the perfect aerial shot.
• Sony Airpeak S1 & Gremsy Gimbal T3 Kit – Want to attach your mirrorless Sony camera to a drone? This package is for you. This package will launch your Sony Alpha camera in the air for amazing low-light footage, or shallow depth of field compositions. It will outperform all other drone cameras on the market by placing your mirrorless camera in the air. 
• MacBook Pro M1 Max ($200 off) or MacBook Pro M1 Pro ($300 off) – For creatives editing their own content, these two systems are going to be a killer portable solution. The M1 Pro will give you more than enough power for 6K and 8K footage. The M1 Max turns it up to 11. 
• Adobe Creative Cloud – Creative Cloud is the standard for professional productions and digital content creators. The full ecosystem includes Frame.io, and now Substance 3D upgrade options. Creative Cloud is a must-have if you are looking for a complete suite of tools to help with your production. 
• DaVinci Resolve – Blackmagic Design has turned Resolve into a powerhouse that’s not only free but has amazing features if you opt for the Studio Version. It started out as a leading color grading toolkit, but it has grown to be a powerful NLE that provides audio, VFX, quick edit tools, and a wide range of other features. 
• Final Cut Pro X – Final Cut Pro X – Final Cut Pro X remains one of the most efficient NLEs for Mac. Final Cut Pro X – Final Cut Pro X might be the best choice for your editing needs if you’re deeply involved in Apple’s ecosystem. 

Magazines, publications, and more

• ASC’s American Cinematographer is $30/year. 60$ for 2 years. Each cinematographer must keep up with changes in the industry. American Cinematographer is for shooters what Variety is for agents. 
• Cinema Scope: $20 for one year or $40 for two years
• Legion M – You can get sweet cinema merchandise from films like Mandy, Jay and Silent Bob Reboot?, and ArchenemyNot only can you help finance future films, but the Legion M investment platform is also available. You can make the filmmaker in your family a producer by making them a bonified producer.! 

Swag and Merch

Everyone wants to look great and celebrate their favorite companies and gear. You or your filmmaker friend might find some great little accessories!

• Gift Cards from B&H (when you’re not sure what to get!)
• Filmtools – When you want to look the part, Filmtools has the threads. Apparel can include hats and shirts as well as patches. 
• Kino Flo T-Shirt: $13
• American Cinematographer “Sketch” Camera Operator T-Shirt: $15
• Moviola Ball Cap: $15
• Stinger Pin: $15
• 9-Light Pin: $15
• Hoo-Rag Bandana: $20
• 5-Panel Hat (Black): $20
• Camera Head Man Sticker: $4
• Cat Stops Sticker: $4
• Aspect Ratios T-Shirt: $23
• C47 Patent T-Shirt: $23
• Designated Charging Station (DIT) T-Shirt: $23
• Director Evolution T-Shirt: $23
• DTF (Down to Film) T-Shirt: $23
• Fix It On Set T-Shirt: $23
• Mayonaise T-Shirt: $23
• More Room Tone T-Shirt: $23
• Steadicam Patent T-Shirt: $24
• Steadicam Silhouette T-Shirt: $24
• Patti Lapel, “We Come to This Place for Magic”, T-Shirt: $35

Television/Home Entertainment 

You’re probably watching movies even if you’re not making them. It’s an investment in your self, after all. The more you can see and hear at home, you’ll be better equipped to learn from others and make critical evaluations of the work you find inspiring. 

Perhaps you are interested in DIYing your own virtual TV. Whatever your requirements, a television is more than a television. 

• Samsung 55 inch HDR 4K LED TV $347.99 – This TV is huge and will give you great pictures. Surprisingly Get a holiday discount to make it affordable You deserve it. 
• Samsung 65″ HDR 4K LED TV – $447.99 – Okay. Similar to above but bigger because you deserve it too.
• LG C2PUA 55″ 4K ($200 off) – Whether you’re gaming, watching your favorite show, or using these as a virtual backdrop, you can’t go wrong with an LG.
• Yamaha 5.1 Home Theater System – $649.95 Stream this product. Dune immediately. We are here to help. 
• Bose Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones – $249 – Get rid of the cords without compromising audio quality. These headphones will be a great addition to any project, no matter how small or large. 

For screenwriters, novelists, and playwrights

Although you may not be a techie, you still make movies the same way as everyone else. This section is for either you or someone you know who fits that description. These gift ideas will help you get through the holidays, no matter what medium it is: film, stage, or nightstand. 

Software

• Final Draft – $250 – Many pros use this software. They call themselves the industry standard, but you can get by just fine with other choices—still, many people like the feel of using the program many other people use as well. 
• Highland 2 – $50 – give yourself some software designed by A-list screenwriter John August. Aren’t your needs being met by software? 
• Fade In – $79 – This option is popular among pro writers. It looks great on the page and is also fun to use. 
• Save the Cat – $189 per year – The most popular book and software that you don’t actually use to write screenplays, this can help you structure your story or just drive you crazy when you realize you’re missing specific beats. 

Writers: Goodies

• Personalized idea notebook, $23.99 Let them be creative and write it down. 
• Writer Emergency Survival Guide – Got screenplay problems? This guide will challenge you to think outside of the box and help you write better screenplays.
• Writer Emergency Pack – A deck of cards you can play when you hit writer’s block? Yes, indeed! Yes, you can! Just don’t attempt to play blackjack. 
• These top screenwriting books are a great resource for anyone who is trying to procrastinate. 

For Cinephiles and Movie Nerds

This section is dedicated to movie lovers. These gift ideas are for those who love sitcoms or cinema. 

Streaming Services

Film-watching is a great way to learn. It’s an excellent way to not only learn, but also support the field. 

• MUBI: $10.99/mo. Or $95.88/year. – This curated platform is for streamers who are looking for rare indie films, classic art films, and foreign titles that can’t be found on Netflix.
• Shudder: $5.99/mo. Shudder: $5.99/month or $56.99/year The spooky season may be over, but Shudder us if you have a passion for film or are a movie lover, we can provide the sub you need. You can’t handle more horror, thrillers, or supernatural suspense.
• The Criterion Channel: $10.99/mo. $99.99/year This is the gold standard in classic cinema, regardless of era, country or genre. The price alone for the poster/box art is well worth it, let’s not lie.
• IFC Films Unlimited: $5.99/mo (must have Amazon Prime) – Devoted to independent film, this is the streamer where you can enjoy and support the indie film community in the purest sense.
• Sundance Now: $6.99/mo (must have Amazon Prime) – Do you miss actual Drama? It’s a large genre that is almost extinct at the multiplex. Sundance Now steps in to save the day. 

Gear to Start Your Own Podcast About Movies

Special Edition Gifts

• Box sets for DVD. You can watch the best gifts! Choose from a variety of styles and themes to find the perfect gift. Select your favorites. Please share your guilty pleasures. Go nuts! 
• Exclusive edition action figures Prices can vary. You have many options. These are great to have on your desk or for playing with. These are great fun.
• Movie posters by MONDO, $50-$80 Decorate your home and office with your favorite movies. Begin a conversation among friends. You can also pick the worst and best movies you love. 
• Grogu (Baby Yoda), in life-size The Mandalorian $375

Ralphie Loves This Stuff Christmas Story

• Red Ryder – But don’t shoot your eye out. 
• Leg lamp – Careful, it’s fra-geee-lay. 
• Ovaltine – The drink Little Orphan Annie likes to guzzle. 

Get stuff from Die Hard This seems like a lot of fun 

• Christmas book – Share the holiday classic with your kids. 
• Mug – Sip coffee like Roy Rodgers. 
• 4K Blu-ray – Own the pristine holiday classic film. 

We’d love to hear from you if there is anything we missed! We wish you a happy holiday!