Are you looking for the perfect photography gift for a mom this Christmas? I’ve got some great ideas for you below!
Like her, my own journey with the camera was fueled by a mother’s love. I wanted my children, Colby and Caroline, to have portraits that would forever remind them of how deeply they are loved.
I couldn’t be more excited that you are thinking of purchasing such a thoughtful gift! Below are some
Gift Idea 1: Mirrorless Camera
You can’t have a photography gift guide without including a camera!
My personal suggestion is a Nikon Z6 II (or any model). It’s what I have used since upgrading to a mirrorless and I love it! These cameras are nowhere near as heavy as DSLR cameras which makes it perfect for on-the-go photos of little ones.
Now, I know, this camera is an investment, BUT, I’ve got a few tips for ya that’ll help you save.
Tips:
1. The biggest tip I can give you is to purchase the body only. A lot of camera kits on Amazon do not include a good-quality lens and include things you don’t really need. No worries, I’ll share a lens below.
2. Purchase the camera used or refurbished right from Nikon.
3. Buy more than she needs. Meaning, she may not be able to use all the settings just yet, but if she’s really interested in, she can learn to take photos manually and even videos. Buy more than she needs now so that in 6 months to a year she’s not wanting to upgrade to a better quality camera.
Gift Idea 2: 50mm Lens
Most cameras you buy will come with a less-than-ideal zoom lens. This is NOT what a mom is gonna want to use when photographing kiddos. A 50mm 1.4 lens is perfect for a mom who wants to take beautiful portraits! This lens is a workhorse and will give her the beautiful bokeh she loves.
Gift Idea 3: Lightweight Tripod
Moms are often juggling multiple tasks, and taking a perfectly framed photo isn’t always easy with little ones in tow.
A lightweight tripod is helpful to set up and photograph photos of the whole family. One complaint I have as the photographer of the family is that I’m often not in the photos myself. Children need photos of their whole family!
Gift Idea 4: Stylish Camera Bag
Now that she has a fancy new camera, she definitely needs a stylish bag to go with it! Personally, I’ve always loved leather camera bags and my all-time favorite is my Lyra backpack from Kamrette.
It’s a classic leather bookbag style (hello hands-free). There’s room for extra things like snacks, wallet, sunglasses, diapers and wipes if needed, and any other everyday necessities you may need. This Leather Camera Backpack even has a laptop compartment, which is such a convenient feature, especially when I’m traveling.
Gift Idea 5: Photo Editing Software Subscription
A photo editing subscription is a fantastic gift for moms who love photography because it allows them to transform their photos into stunning, professional-looking images.
Software like Adobe Lightroom will allow her to enhance colors, adjust lighting, and add a personal touch to her images.
Bonus, a subscription to Lightroom will also allow her to edit photos on her phone.
Gift Idea 6: Editing Presets for Camera and Phone Photos
For moms who enjoy quick and easy photo edits, presets are a total game-changer!
These ready-made filters help her instantly add consistent, gorgeous effects to her photos with just a few clicks. Whether she’s shooting with her camera or her phone, presets make it simple to achieve that cohesive, polished look we all love.
Plus, they’re fully adjustable, so she can tweak the intensity to fit her personal style and the unique vibe of each photo.
Here are some of my faves:
Refined
Mandy Ford
Nobel
Archetype
Gift Idea 7: A PHOTO SESSION
If you’d like to get her something extra special, consider purchasing a gift certificate from a photographer she loves.
As a professional photographer, who has worked with children for a decade, I’ve learned tips and tricks for naturally capturing children. If she is into photography this is the gift you really want to give her! If you happen to live in Williamsburg, Virginia Beach, Richmond or surrounding areas in Virginia, you can hire me for this amazing present. I offer gift certificates that can be wrapped and presented on Christmas morning! Click the button below to learn more!
PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR MOMS WHO LOVE TAKING PHOTOS
I hope this photography gift guide makes gifting a photography-loving mom in your life a little easier this Christmas. Whether it’s a new mirrorless camera, a versatile lens, or even a gift certificate for a professional photo session, these gifts are more than just items—they’re tools to capture love. She’ll be so grateful for such a thoughtful gift!
