Gift Giving Guide
It's that time of year again, and if you (like many others) know someone that is into their photography, whether a seasoned pro or someone just looking to get started, finding the right gift for them can be tricky at the best of times.
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At Canterbury Camera Centre we've seen it all, and the worst thing to happen if for it to go unappreciated or worse returned once the festive period is over. Therefore, we've got some ideas for items which will be sure to bring a smile to their face and help them grow on their photographic journey.
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All items featured are things we recommend and sell in store, so if you find it here we're sure to have it in stock either online or in store.
The 'Just For Fun'
Aimed at those looking for whimsey with their photo-taking, with something that isn't too 'in your face' or complicated for those just starting out. It also features a keychain attachment so they'll never be too far from their camera whether its on a keyring, bag, jacket, etc.
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The 'Retro Fan'
There's nothing better than finding a past technology to open up a whole world of exploration for you and film photography is a hot topic for a lot of people looking to go back to a simpler time of photo taking. However this can be a problematic place to start for gift giving as there are a lot of options out there so we've linked our recommendations below.
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A great everyday option for those looking to capture bright and colourful scenes, it's increased sensitivity to low light scenarios also makes it a great choice at this time of year.​
For an alternative approach, why not gift a roll of black and white film for a real authentic look and an opportunity to see things differently in shades of monochrome.​ This film also shares an increased sensitivity to low light to help during the darker/colder months.
The 'Tech Traveller'
Running out of power can be the most frustrating thing, especially when travelling. Add to that issues when travelling and forgetting to pack your travel charger! If you know someone who loves to explore and relies on their electronic devices, whether that's a Phone, Camera, Watch or even Tablet, you can never be too far from a charger.
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The Statik smartcharger covers a multitude of potential issues, forgotten cables? This has them built in. Left your travel adapter at home? The Statik comes with 4 AC socket fittings. Need to wirelessly charge your device? A built in 10,000mAh battery that fits in your pocket can be used wirelessly or plugged in for your convenience. ​
The 'Memory Keeper'
Photography is all about capturing something special to be sure to remember it later. The festive period is the perfect opportunity to photograph those around us to let them know how much they mean and to keep them close by for years to come. Why not make that more special with a one off instant photo, something real and tangible that can be framed, stuck in an album or pinned to a wall.
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Styled on the iconic Pikachu the Polaroid Go Gen 3 allows for easy instant photos with a built in flash and automatic exposure great photos can be captured all year round. Plus with the Gen 3's new wider lens and built in selfie mirror there's no need for the photographer to be left out of the shots.​
For the same great photos in a different colour way the Sylveon edition provides the same great features for those wanting something that fits their style.
The 'Nature Lover'
For those looking to explore the great outdoors, a pair of binoculars can be invaluable. Whether it's casual bird spotting or just wanting to see what's up ahead it can be a great way to get someone up and out for a walk in nature.
We stock a wide range of binoculars in store (you should pop in and see) but here are some excellent options for those looking to just get started.
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These light and compact binoculars are easy to use and great for young children who are curious about the world around them.​
For something a little more robust, the Discovery SP will provide a clearer image for those wanting to see a little more detail, either for more accurate bird identification or just something that's a little bit brighter and easier to see.
The 'Influencer'
Getting started with social media and content creation can be difficult without the right equipment. Using a smartphone can make it a lot easier as a starting point and there are a couple of small improvements that can make a world of difference in the quality of a final video or photo.
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Propping a phone up against something is good to start with, but it can be limiting to creativity. Having something to allow for more creative angles and framing can help combat this and no one ever likes to watch shaky video.​
Even lighting can also help improve overall video quality and make it look like a more serious endeavour. A small ring light can add a whole new dimension to videos while not being cumbersome or in the way for a more polished and consistent look overall.
The 'Always Prepared'
Often times as a photographer, you don't know what equipment to pack when. Take the thinking out of it with a comfortable and stylish backpack with the added advantage of not looking like a flashy camera bag. Because you never know what camera or lens will be best for the situation you may find yourself in, so why not pack all the options.
Now at a reduced price to be a bit easier on the bank account too.
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With all around padding while remaining surprisingly spacious inside the Langly Sierra offers protection without the cost and can fit a lot more gear in it than you may think with its 24l capacity.​
A different colour option with the same great benefits as the one above. Both also have a 16-inch laptop sleeve concealed in the back making them great everyday backpacks for school or uni.
The 'Ol' Reliable'
There's nothing quite like the anticipation of the festive period. Make it last a little longer by having to wait to see the photos. Single Use cameras are a great and fun way to capture memories that is somehow always more fun when you have the wait to see how they turned out (for better or worse).
We can also offer film processing once you finished using it.
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Take more photos with the Kodak Fun Saver. Pre-loaded with 800 ISO it's better suited for indoors and outdoors especially during the darker months and the built in flash makes it all the more flexible.​
The LeBox is pre-loaded with 400 ISO film meaning you may need to make more use of the flash while still being just as easy to capture whatever you may be doing over the festive period.
We hope you found this guide useful and insightful when it comes to finding gifts for your loved ones.
Buying for someone who is photographically minded can be a tricky thing to do but I can assure you they don't need another mug in the shape of a camera lens (sorry Mum), even though it seems like a good idea at the time.
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If you have any questions about any of the products listed be sure to click on them to take you to their product page. Alternatively you are welcome to come and visit us in store using the information below.
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Wishing you the best from the Canterbury Camera Centre team.
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