No Film School's 2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Filmmakers

Are you having trouble finding the perfect gift to give the filmmaker in your family? Even if you’re just looking for something to treat yourself, we have you covered.

Imagine this. It’s holiday season, and you open a gift with your name written on it. The box feels heavy and you dare not shake it—the contents might be fragile! Do you really want the new camera? Perhaps you’re looking for a DVD set. LOST? What about the Stanley Kubrick light-meter? Barry Lyndon? Could it be?!

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

It can seem impossible to find the perfect gift for the filmmaker in the family, no matter how much we love keeping our toes warm in winter. Santa Spielberg is our Saint Nick. We can help you 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. You can also send the entire article to your mom, father, or anyone who is looking for gifts. They will appreciate it, I promise.

Nintendo 64 Present — Me too, bud. You too. Credit: raw64life

For Cinematographers, Gear Heads, and Creatives

This section is perfect for anyone who loves cameras or someone who makes a living from it. 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. Since its inception, landscape and portrait photographers have been admiring this camera. You also have solid video options. Although it isn’t great for beginners, the GFX can be used by pros who need a larger frame.
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. You can use it for both video and photos. With the Fujifilm X-T5 now in the wild, you can find the X-T4 for a bargain.
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. You can also use it for film work and docs.
Sony FX30 (New Release) – Sony’s return of APS-C/Super 35-sized sensors to the FX30 is a great cinema camera (right next the BMPCC 4K or 6K G2). This camera is a great companion for solo photographers, whether they are digital content creators, videographers, or cinematographers.
BMPCC 6K G2 (New Version) – Blackmagic Design’s latest release is the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2. 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. It is also the first Canon camera capable of 8K 60P Cinema RAW light recording.
Canon EOS R7 & Canon EOS R10 – These two very affordable APSC options from Canon pack 4K video into a small package. The R7 also gives you 4K60 10-Bit Video, HDR-PQ & C-Log 3. Both of these cameras would make solid entry-level options for videographers and photographers alike.
Canon EOS C70: This is Canon’s smallest Super35 cinema camera. However, don’t let this fool you. The C70 packs a punch, and has received constant updates that have made it one of most supported cameras on 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 most popular choice for filmmakers. They are rugged and can be controlled precisely with focus and aperture. This gives them a sense of character that many other lenses lack. For creatives who want to add a cinematic edge, here are some of our favorites (that won’t break the bank).
- 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 is the perfect set for doc shooters who need 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 thousands on a RED Komodo. The anamorphic images are a great tool for your projects and won’t cost much.
- IRIX Cine entry set – IRIX has a relatively recent lens line up compared with other brands. They have solid glass that is both extremely affordable and produces 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. It is available in Canon RF, Sony E and Nikon Z mounts.
- 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. Here are some things you can do to prepare 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. You won’t have to break the bank for this solid piece of kit.
- Tilta Nucleus Nano Wireless Follow Focus System – What Tilta did for the Nucleus M, it did again 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 is a manufacturer of cages for various cameras and wanted to get a piece of Tilta’s pie. They also created a wireless follow-focus system that is affordable.
- Atomos Ninja 5″ 4K Monitor/Recorder. The Atomos Ninja, one of only two external monitor/recorders available on the market, can give your cameras the ability to record ProRes Raw. 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. You can also get it in a smaller size at 5″.
- SmallHD 702 touch – This 7 inch monitor from SmallHD can be found on all ARRI cameras. Although it isn’t the most expensive, it will be a reliable workhorse for your team. Although it won’t record RAW or any other video, it will produce a bright, accurate image.

Gimbals & Drones, Computers, And More

DJI Mavic 3 Classic: The Mavic 3 was a great drone back in its day. 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. It is the perfect drone to start with if you are interested in aerial cinematography, photography and videography.
DJI Inspire 2 – Raising the price and feature set, the Inspire 2 was a solid professional drone. Although it is getting old, the Inspire 2 is still an excellent option for professional photographers looking for that perfect aerial shot.
Sony Airpeak S1 & Gremsy Gimbal T3 Kit – Want to attach your mirrorless Sony camera to a drone? This is the right package for you. It 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. You’ll be able to process 6K and even 8K video with the M1 Pro. The M1 Max turns it up to 11.
Adobe Creative Cloud – Creative Cloud is the standard for professional productions and digital content creators. It includes Frame.io as well as Substance 3D upgrades. Creative Cloud should be on your list if you’re looking for a complete production suite.
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 is still the best NLE 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 ecosystem.

Magazines, Publications and More

ASC’s American Cinematographer is $30/year. Or $60 for two years. Each cinematographer must keep up with changes in the industry. American Cinematographer is for shooters what Variety is for agents.
Cinema Scope: $20 per year, $40 for two years
Legion M – You can not only get some sweet cinema merchandise from films such as Mandy, Jay and Silent Bob RebootAnd ArchenemyYou can help to fund future films through the Legion M investment platform. How could you give a better gift than to make that filmmaker in your life a professional producer?!

Swag and Merch

Everyone wants to look their best or honor their favorite brands and gear. There are many fun accessories that you and your filmmaker friend might like!

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

If you don’t make movies, you’re likely watching them. This is an investment in you. The more sound and image you have at home, the better you will be able to analyze, learn and critique the work that will inspire you for your next project.

You might even consider DIYing your very first virtual set. No matter what your needs are, a TV doesn’t have to be just a TV.

Samsung 55 inch HDR 4K LED TV $347.99 – This TV is huge and will give you great pictures. Surprisingly Enjoy a holiday discount and get a bargain! 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 trust you.
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

You’re not a tech guru, but you still make movies like everyone else. This section is for either you or someone you know who fits that description. This section is for you, regardless of whether you are writing for film, television, or the nightstand. Here are some gift ideas that will make the holidays memorable.

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.

Goodies for Writers

Personalized idea notebook $23.99 – Give your favorite filmmaker a journal to keep track of their thoughts and ideas. 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! Yes, you can! Just don’t attempt to play blackjack.
These are the best screenwriting books, which offer many useful information for those who want to learn more about screenwriting.

For Cinephiles, Movie Nerds, and Armchair Critics

This section is for movie buffs, regardless of whether or not you are a fan. 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. – $95.88/year – This curated platform is for streamers who are looking for rare indie films, classic art films, and foreign titles that you won’t see on Netflix.
Shudder: $5.99/mo. Shudder: $5.99/month or $56.99/year Shudder us if you are a film lover or a person who enjoys the spookiness of the season. There’s more horror, thrillers and supernatural suspense than you can handle.
The Criterion Channel: $10.99/mo. or $99.99/yr. The standard for classic cinema from all eras, countries, and genres. Let’s face it, the box/poster art is more than worth the price.
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 saves the day.

Gear to Start Your Own Podcast About Movies

Special Edition Gifts

Box sets for DVD. You will be able to watch them! You can pick and choose what people like from the wide range of contemporary to classic items. Select your favorite. 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 office or home with your favorite movies. Begin a conversation among friends. You can also pick the worst and best movies you love.
Grogu (Baby Yoda). The Mandalorian $375

No Film School’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Filmmakers

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