No Film School 2022 Holiday Gift Guide For Filmmakers

You can’t find the right gift for the filmmaker in the family? We have the perfect gift for you, even if your goal is to pamper yourself.

Imagine this. It’s holiday season and you’re opening a present that has your name on. The box feels heavy and you dare not shake it—the contents might be fragile! Do you really want the new camera? Perhaps you are looking for a DVD box 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.

Even though we all love winter and want to keep our feet warm, it can be difficult to find the right gift for the film-maker in your life. 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.

Nintendo 64 Present — Me too, bud. Me 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. This camera is perfect for hobbyists and professionals alike.
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 loved this camera. It has 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 comes with fully dedicated modes to photo and video. It has a full frame capable of producing 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 G). 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 most recent release, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2, is available now. This camera is one of the most affordable RAW-capable cameras on the marketplace. It also features an image quality that rivals many cameras at a hundred times the price. 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 – These two very affordable APSC options from Canon pack 4K video into a compact package. The R7 also gives you 4K60 10-Bit Video, HDR-PQ & C-Log 3. These cameras are both excellent entry-level cameras that would suit videographers as well as photographers.
Canon EOS C70 – This is Canon’s small Super 35 cinema camera. But don’t be fooled. 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 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. 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 makes some the most affordable anamorphic lens sets on the market. The MFT-mount set is almost half the price of a single lens from any other manufacturer. While they may not be as beautiful as expensive glass, the images created by them can be spectacular.
- Sirui Venus Anamorphic Lens Set 1.6x – This set is the same price as the full frame version, and comes with an RF Mount. These would be a great set of lenses if you had spent hundreds on 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 produces stunning images. This entry set includes a 21mm (20mm) and 45mm (EF-mount). These lenses are also available in PL-mount, Sony E, Canon RF and Leica L.
Photography Lenses Although not as precise as cinema lenses, photography glasses can still be a great way of saving money. Many may include optical image stabilization or autofocus. These are our top picks.
- 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 and has 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 the 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.
Accessory – 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 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 record ProRes Raw footage. It’s an incredible monitor.
- Blackmagic Design Video Assist 7″ – If Atomos was the first RAW recorder, then the BMD Video Assist is the competition. Creatives can use BRAW to record on this monitor/recorder. 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. This monitor is not the most affordable, but it will work well for you and your colleagues. Although it won’t record RAW or any other video, it will produce a bright, accurate image.

Gimbals and Drones, Computers, And More

DJI Mavic 3 classic – The Mavic 3 was an amazing drone when it first came out. DJI is now bringing it back with its Mavic 3 classic. It is 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 photography, aerial cinematography and aerial 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 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 take your Sony Alpha camera to the skies for stunning low-light footage and 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 takes it to 11.
Adobe Creative Cloud: Creative Cloud is the standard platform for digital content creators and professional productions. It includes Frame.io as well as Substance 3D upgrades. 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 began as an industry-leading tool for color grading, but it has evolved to be one of the most popular NLEs available, offering audio, VFX and quick editing tools.
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 are deeply involved in Apple’s ecosystem.

Magazines, publications, and more

ASC American Cinematographer $30/year 60$ for 2 years. Each cinematographer must keep up with changes in the industry. American Cinematographer does the same for shooters as Variety does for agents.
Cinema Scope: $20 for one year or $40 for two years
Legion M – You can not only get some sweet cinema merch by watching films like Mandy, Jay and Silent Bob RebootAnd ArchenemyYou can help to fund future films through the Legion M investment platform. You can make the filmmaker in your family a producer by making them a bonified 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. It’s an investment in your self, after all. 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. 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 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 You can stream this system by purchasing it. 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

Although you may not be a techie, you make movies the same way as everyone else. This section is for you, or those you know who fit this 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. You wouldn’t want anything that isn’t devoted to your needs.
Fade In $79 – Another popular option for professional writers. This one looks neat on the page, and it’s also very 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 – 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 encourage you to think outside the box, and push yourself to create better screenplays.
Writer Emergency Pack – A deck of cards you can play when you hit writer’s block? Yes, indeed! You can get out of any jam as long as you don’t 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. Here are some gift suggestions for movie lovers and sitcom fans.

Streaming Services

Many great filmmakers learned from film-watching. It’s a wonderful way to learn and inspire, as well as to help the field.

MUBI: $10.99/mo. or $95.88/year. – A curated platform that streams hard-to-find movies and art films, as well as foreign titles you won’t find on Netflix.
Shudder: $5.99/mo. Shudder: $5.99/month or $56.99/year Although the Halloween season is over, some people still love horror movies. If it’s a passion that you have for film all year, Shudder has the perfect sub. There’s more horror, thrillers and supernatural suspense than you can handle.
The Criterion Channel: $10.99/mo. Or $99.99/year. This is the gold standard in classic cinema, regardless of era, country or genre. Let’s face it, the price alone for the poster/box art is well worth it.
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

Sets of DVD boxes. The best gifts are those you can actually watch. Choose from a variety of styles and themes to find the perfect gift. Choose your favorite. 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 for having fun.
Movie posters starting at $50 to $80 from MONDO Decorate your home and office with your favorite movies. Have a good conversation with your friends. Pick the most and worst movies that you enjoy.
Grogu (Baby Yoda), in life-size The Mandalorian $375