‘Tis the season of giving, no matter the holiday you celebrate. If you’re stumped on what to get the video creator in your life, we’re here to help with 22 gifts for filmmakers.
Whether they’re a filmmaker, corporate video professional, or content creator, our list includes gifts for people from all industries and walks of life.
We also asked video professionals, including our own Creative Director, Nick LaClair, to provide first-hand insights.
Gear for filmmakers and content creators can vary widely in price, so we’ve included a range of gifts under and over $500, as well as stocking stuffers for $100 or less.
Here’s our 2025 gift guide for filmmakers and content creators. Don’t worry; we won’t judge if you get inspired to do a little personal shopping.
Gifts for Filmmakers Over $500
We’re starting with the highest-ticket items, which include a lot of essential equipment professional filmmakers need. Discover the greatest, latest, and most classic gear.
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1. Digital Cinema Camera
For the filmmaker capturing movie-quality footage, a digital cinema camera is essential. This type of camera captures color-rich, ultra-high resolution footage, providing flexibility in post-production editing. For anyone creating full-scale productions, from Hollywood movie studios to content production houses, these are the standard cameras for cinematic video.
RED DIGITAL CINEMA KOMODO 6K Digital Cinema Camera ($2,995.00)
A RED camera makes our list for the first time, “because it’s cheaper than a lot of DSLRs,” said Nick LaClair of SproutVideo, which makes it a steal at $3,000 (from $5,000) for a digital cinema camera.
This price drop is exciting news for any filmmaker who’s been waiting to invest in a RED camera. However, shoppers should be aware that the necessary accessories (such as a lens) for the camera will significantly increase the actual investment.
2. Premium Lens
There are a few workhorse lenses that can provide everything a filmmaker needs. A premium lens can be that workhorse if you choose the right one. In contrast to purchasing niche or budget lenses, a video professional can buy a single lens and be well-equipped for most scenarios.
Note that for full-frame cameras, a 24-70mm lens covers the entire focal range, while an 18-55mm lens is required for APS-C cameras.
Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens ($2299)
“This is the standard photojournalist lens,” shared LaClair of SproutVideo, “If you go into a war zone, you take this lens with you. It covers your wide shots, your mediums, and your coverage. Outside of wildlife photography or sports, you’re covered for anything you might need for storytelling. The Canon, specifically, is known to be bomb-proof.
“I still own one that I bought in 2006. It’s almost 20 years old, and it functions perfectly. I beat the crap out of it on horseback once. I had to shoot, then throw it over my back and go, like I was in the Kentucky Derby, to get in front of the people to then grab it and shoot again. The whole time, it was just bouncing on the saddle,” said LaClair.
3. Tripod System
Video tripods are generally more expensive than photo tripods. The reason? Smoothness. It’s costly to produce a tripod so smooth you won’t notice when watching the footage back. This challenge is also why tripods made for photography generally don’t translate to video.
Sachtler Flowtech75 MS Tripod System ($1950)
“Sachtler is the best tripod brand, and they have been forever,” shared LaClair of SproutVideo. “The Flowtech is a carbon fiber tripod that is super lightweight and quick to adjust. Until Flowtech came out, all professional video tripod systems were time-consuming to set up and adjust.
“You would unscrew the legs, let them come down, and screw them all back in. It took forever, and it was clunky. This Flowtech75 system made my life much easier. The one caveat is you have to put it in a rugged case because it’s carbon fiber,” said LaClair.
4. Smartphone with Quality Camera
Smartphone cameras are downright impressive. They help ensure you can capture magical moments wherever and whenever they happen. In many instances, a smartphone camera doesn’t replace a professional one, but that might be changing as cameras continue to improve.
iPhone 17 Pro ($1099+)
“The iPhone 17 Pro could finally be the device that makes content creators’ other video cameras collect dust,” claims TechCrunch. So what new features justify such a claim? Namely, the camera sensor is 56% larger than that of the iPhone 16 Pro, which improves low-light performance, depth of field, and resolution.
Additionally, all of the lenses are 48MP fusion cameras, allowing the iPhone to mimic a multi-lens setup. The selfie camera leaped from 12MP to 18MP. And finally, the phone can simultaneously record both front and back cameras (dual-cam recording) or in horizontal and vertical orientations (Center Stage). Now that is an iPhone perfectly positioned for creators.
5. Pocket-Sized 4K Drone
Capture scenic views and creative angles with a flying drone. If you’ve ever wondered how your favorite YouTuber got that incredible bird’s-eye shot, here’s the answer.
Drones can be expensive, but the shots they capture are priceless and would require significantly more resources to capture otherwise. A small drone is a great way to reduce costs while getting the unique shots you (or your filmmaker) want.
DJI Mini 4 Pro (DJI RC-N2) ($759)
Clocking in at an ultra-light 249 grams, this little guy can record in 4K and fly for 45 minutes. “The DJI Mini 4 Pro’s camera quality and stability make it an asset. We often deal with breezy conditions as we’re super close to the beach, and this drone handles it with ease, ensuring smooth, cinematic shots that draw viewers into the experience we offer,” shared Jonathan Pickard, Head of Marketing for Holiday Resort Unity.
“It’s quiet enough not to interrupt guest experiences. I personally recommend it because, for its price, it has enhanced camera capabilities, including a 1/1.3-inch sensor capable of shooting 4K video at 60 frames per second. It also has an obstacle-sensing system, which is very useful when navigating various environments,” shared Pickard.
Shopping outside the United States? Check out the DJI Mini 5 Pro ($769), which promises to offer cinematic-quality with longer battery life and improved handling in the same tiny package.
6. Mobile Production Kit
For many video professionals, a high-quality mobile production kit is all they need, whether they’re filming on the go or in their office. The goal is to significantly increase the convenience of filming without sacrificing video or audio quality.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo ($695)
The DJI Pocket is a fantastic video solution for anyone who needs to capture quality footage easily without carrying a full-frame camera. “The Osmo Pocket 3’s features, specifically the 4K/60 FPS recording, are amazing for slow-motion. It can also shoot in different aspect ratios, making it easier to edit for Instagram and YouTube,” said Oleksiy Torokhtiy, Founder of Torokhtiy Weightlifting.
“Thanks to its small size, I can move around the gym and lift weights while capturing close-up form checks without being intrusive. The Pocket 3 performs remarkably well even in low-light conditions and is ideal for travel. I throw it in my gym bag and carry it along,” shared Torokhtiy.
The Creator Combo Kit includes everything you need to start filming stable footage with minimal noise. You can even use your phone as a wireless video monitor and to customize film settings.
The Best Gift Ideas Under $500
Video equipment can quickly become expensive. While $500 is still a significant investment, filmmakers and those who love them can get a lot of great equipment in this pricing tier.
7. Gimbal System
A gimbal system is essential for reliably smooth shots. Whether the camera moves to tell the story or the filmmaker stands in one place, gimbals eliminate the shake in a camera’s shot. You can walk around with it or use it on a tripod, then tilt and pan with the little button. It makes almost everything you need to do a lot easier.
DJI RS 4 Mini ($369)
Gimbals are a must-have item for filmmakers, but the truly useful ones were not affordable until now. The DJI RS 4 Mini puts the functionality of the DJI RS 4 Pro Gimbal Stabilizer (last year’s item in this category) into a lighter-weight package for a fraction of the price.
“It’s bonkers that this tech is under $500. There isn’t a filmmaker out there who shouldn’t have a gimbal now. It used to be a specialized kit; now it’s table stakes,” said LaClair of SproutVideo.
8. Field Monitor with LUT Support
Cameras often need to be positioned in specific or unusual locations. They might be up high or super low. One could be in a corner, shoved behind a bunch of books. A video monitor makes it really easy to see what the camera sees and review it with multiple people. It also allows the filmmaker to see the shot while they’re in it.
Atomos Shinobi 2 5″ Touchscreen HDR Video Monitor ($375)
The small and relatively affordable Atomos Shinobi 2 video monitor is ideal for a wide range of video professionals. “The 1500-nit screen makes it perfect for outdoor shoots, where visibility in sunlight is crucial,” shared Ryan Stone, Founder and Creative Director of Lambda Video Production. “The Shinobi 2 stands out for its USB-C camera control for Canon, Sony, Panasonic, and Z CAM cameras, a feature usually found in more expensive models.”
Note that camera control is compatible with supported mirrorless and cinema cameras via a direct USB-C connection. Therefore, ensure that you choose a video monitor that works with your filmmaker’s camera.
9. Rugged Hard Drive
Every video professional needs to back up footage. And External SSDs have become the standard. They’re compact and pretty foolproof. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to use one that’s rugged enough to protect your footage from life’s various hazards.
Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD ($229.99)
“In the past, everyone had to carry 15 pounds of hard drives. That’s not a problem with external SSDs,” recalled LaClair of SproutVideo.
This industry-standard option from Samsung protects your footage with an IP65 rating, ensuring it is both dust-proof and resistant to rain. Plus, it features a three-meter drop rating, super-fast transfer speeds, and a range of storage sizes (1TB to 4TB), making it a thoughtful gift for creators and filmmakers alike.
10. Editing Software
Video editing software enables professionals to transform raw footage into a cohesive and visually engaging experience. Video post-production often involves much more than editing clips and scenes together. It’s for this reason that many filmmaker workflows include multiple software programs.
DaVinci Resolve Studio ($325)
DaVinci Resolve Studio is the only all-in-one video solution that truly competes with Premiere Pro. With 95% of its functionality freely available to anyone, gifting the paid version to your filmmaker is a great way to unlock their next level of creativity.
“There are some very powerful tools in the paid version, like noise reduction, lens correction, and face detection. Especially the noise reduction: you can stick any footage into DaVinci and make it look as cinematic as possible,” said LaClair of SproutVideo.
“Another good thing about Davinci Resolve is you don’t have to keep paying for upgrades, which future-proofs your investment in the software. They frequently update it to make it better,” shared Senthil M, Founder and Cinematographer with T-Eight.
11. Durable Carry-On Gear Case
For video professionals who travel down the road or across the globe, a rugged gear case is essential. Hardshell cases are waterproof, dust-proof, and crush-proof to protect the expensive gear within. Outside of the film world, many professionals in other industries use these cases for the same reason.
Pelican 1510 Protector Carry-On Case ($224.95)
“Unless you’re on a little puddle jumper, you don’t want to check your luggage with your camera and other expensive stuff. The 1510 allows you to keep your equipment with you while traveling,” shared LaClair of SproutVideo. “The Pelican 1510 is always at my side at airports. And it fits in the overhead compartment instead of having to check it.”
12. Professional Lavalier Microphone
Wireless lavaliers are the easiest way to get professional audio quality. Your subject can move around without any wires, and there’s no need for boom mics. Overall, wireless lavaliers offer a comparable sound quality to wired lavaliers while being easier to use and less expensive.
Hollyland LARK MAX 2 Ultimate Combo Wireless Lavalier ($279)
Introduced in 2025, the Hollyland LARK MAX 2 offers significant upgrades over its predecessor, making it even easier for creators and filmmakers to capture high-quality audio.
Featuring 32-bit float recording, the LARK MAX 2 captures a wider dynamic range without distortion. In other words, filmmakers can worry less about audio being too quiet or too loud during filming. This update also features super-low latency at just 20ms and includes built-in timecode sync, ensuring footage and audio are aligned before you ever hit post production.
13. All-in-One Smartphone Video Kit
Most people already have a fancy camera in their pocket. Therefore, a smartphone video kit is an ideal way to support someone’s burgeoning passion without breaking your budget. A quality video kit can bridge the gap between your (or your filmmakers’) dreams and getting started.
SmallRig All-in-One Universal Video Kit ($189.99)
Many creators and filmmakers start their careers with a smartphone, and this all-in-one video kit is the perfect upgrade for beginners. It features a universal stability cage with wireless control handles for smoother shots. An included microphone, pop-on light, and portable tripod round out the list for a practical setup that’s less than $200.
14. Studio Key Light
A key light is the heart of any studio lighting kit. Key lighting illuminates the main subject, while other hard and soft sources support the key light. It’s a versatile gift that’s ideal for filmmakers or creators who are building or upgrading their studio space.
Elgato Key Light ($179.99)
The Elgato Key Light features 2800 lumens of adjustable brightness and a range of color temperatures for adjusting warmth. The included mount with desk clamp makes it an easy addition for creators; however, its lightweight portability also makes it a good choice for traveling professionals. Pair a key light with a couple of RGB light wands (below) for an easy, minimalist setup that’s ideal for live streamers and content creators.
15. A Portable RGB Light
A portable light (or multiple) is a practical choice for filmmakers who need to travel with minimal gear or quickly shoot a video at home. These lights offer a full range of RGB colors, as well as regular white light with percentage dimming for extreme precision.
Nanlite PavoTube II 6XR (RGB Tube Light) ($149)
Debuted at the 2025 National Association of Broadcasters Show (NAB), the Nanlite PavoTube II 6XR dazzles with its “Pixel Effect Mode,” which features eight RGBWW full-color lights that blend for a splash. Add a rainbow glow or touch of warmth to any set, all with a single 10-inch light wand.
The PavoTube II 6XR is also available as an 8-light kit (which includes accessories and a rugged charging case), advertised as a full solution for production teams on the go.
Looking for a lower-cost option? Check out the NEEWER 10cm RGB Light Wand ($21.59). Last year’s pick, these 23cm lights are extremely versatile. The lights are magnetized, making them perfect for quick setups and creative lighting. You can even snap them together to craft dynamic color splashes.
16. Flexible Travel Tripod
In some situations, a standard tripod simply won’t cut it. That’s where flexible tripods come into play. These extremely durable and bendy tripods are designed for use almost anywhere. The tripods’ rubberized legs help them grip and hold onto nearly any surface. The impossible shot becomes possible with one of these handy tripods.
Joby GorillaPod® 5K Kit ($204.95)
“Joby GorillaPod is the industry standard. The 5K carries five kilograms of weight [11 pounds], which is amazing because it can carry a big lens on a full-frame camera,” shared LaClair of SproutVideo.
“So the 5K is the sweet spot for those using a full-frame camera while also being able to use it for everything else. I always have one in my camera kit or wedged into my luggage. And I almost always regret when I don’t have one,” shared LaClair.
17. Online Classes
Knowledge is the gift that keeps on giving. Websites like Udemy, Skillshare, Coursera, and MasterClass are popular platforms for learning or developing skills. Independent creators and small businesses (like One Peak Creative) also offer classes or mentorships that provide opportunities to build video knowledge.
MasterClass Subscription ($120/year)
MasterClass provides a variety of content. “Jodi Foster teaches my current favorite class for filmmakers. She provides a practical walkthrough of creating a short film, sharing the real process from building the story through choosing music for the final cut,” said Conner Carey, Marketing Manager at SproutVideo.
“She takes a daunting process and guides viewers through the director’s process, which she calls a series of choices and compromises,” shared Carey. Featuring insights on the challenges and rewards of being both director and actor, this MasterClass provides especially relevant advice for content creators and independent filmmakers.
Beyond classes, MasterClass offers full-length documentaries worthy of a movie night (‘Relentless’ on songwriter Diane Warren is a must-watch for music lovers) and playlists featuring short clips ideal for a lunch break. There are countless helpful subjects to explore with a MasterClass subscription.
Stocking Stuffers for Filmmakers Under $100
Thoughtful gifts are always appreciated. This list of stocking stuffers under $100 features items that will improve your filmmaker’s daily life and help them gain new inspiration.
18. Color Checker
A color chart is essential for matching colors when filming with multiple cameras. In DaVinci Resolve and other software, there are automatic processes that read the color charts from various cameras and color grade based on them.
Datacolor SpyderCHECKR 24 Color Chart ($69)
“A color chart’s colors are an absolute, exact known color. They don’t shift from one color chart to the next. So when you stick that in front of a camera, the software will determine, based on what it looks like, how to correct the footage,” said LaClair of SproutVideo.
19. Reflectors Kit
Reflectors allow filmmakers to carry less equipment while controlling light to their advantage. You can bounce lights off of them, so you don’t have to bring a ton of lighting equipment other than the light itself. Reflector kits are versatile because they come in different types of reflectors, including gold, silver, and white. Each of those colors creates a different reflection.
Westcott Illuminator QuickGrip 5-in-1 Reflectors ($49.90)
“It’s versatile for a thousand reasons. If you have to create a shadow where there isn’t one, there’s a blackout reflector. And inside that, if you take the cover off, you can use it for diffusion too,” LaClair of SproutVideo discussed. “Instead of carrying a light and a light modifier, like a soft box and a fill and all these other things, you can just have one of these that you throw a light through.”
20. Gaffer Tape
You can never have too much gaffer tape. It’s the go-to solution for just about any problem on set. It makes a great gift because it goes fast, and filmmakers are constantly buying it. Grab a range of colors to provide more options for its use.
Gaffer Power Professional Grade Gaffer Tape ($19.88)
“I’ve used gaffer tape for labeling equipment, marking floors to remember tripod positioning, securing cables, attaching camera accessories, and securing filters to lights,“ said Tim Ryan, Head of Marketing at SproutVideo.
“At $20 a roll, you need gaffer tape all the time, and you hate buying it—there’s another $20 and another $20,” laughed LaClair of SproutVideo, “If you love someone, get them a six-pack roll of gaffer tape in various colors so they always have some. It’s useful for absolutely everything. There’s nothing it can’t do, but you go through it quickly.”
21. Videography Apps
Gifts don’t have to come in a box to have a big impact. Filmmakers use various types of apps, some of which are made for video (like the shot-planning app featured below), while others are also useful (like the Sun Seeker app for determining how sunlight will impact a shot).
Cadrage Director’s Viewfinder ($19.99)
“The Cadrage Director’s viewfinder comes in handy when I visit a location before filming to scout it (known as recce). I want to travel light and don’t want to lug around camera gear for these outings,” said Senthil M, Founder and Cinematographer with T-Eight.
“The app has a library of presets, which allows me to set up the cameras and lenses I plan to use for a shoot. I can take videos and stills with the lens frame line markings. This is handy to share with the production team, especially with the art department, as they will know how wide a shot will be so they can prep before the shoot,” said Senthil.
22. Pocket-Sized Notebook
Inspiration can strike at any moment, so having a dedicated place to jot down ideas is always helpful. There are endless options for pocket-sized notebooks. Look for a high-quality brand or independent maker. Consider getting a notebook with graph dots for maximum versatility.
Field Notes Pocket-Sized Notebook ($14.95)
“Field Notes creates a classic-feeling notebook that’s just plain enjoyable to use. They come in packs of three, which immediately encourages you to assign specific uses to each. Available in dot graph or lined, I find the dot graph provides the flexibility to write or sketch out ideas quickly,” shared Carey of SproutVideo.
Smaller than the average smartphone, its size makes it easy to keep the notebook close so you’re always prepared to capture inspiration and game plans alike. “I hadn’t used Field Notes before this review, and I am entirely hooked on the brand now,” said Carey.
We hope we made it tough to choose with our list of the best gear for filmmakers available this holiday season. Check our other holiday content below.
Happy Holidays from the SproutVideo crew!
