I told Brendan the other night that I wanted new pots and pans for the holidays. How boring. And unimaginative.
Honey — if you’re reading this….I was lying.
That was the practical side of me shining through. Pretty soon I’m going to be asking for vacuums, blenders, and trash cans too. Oh my. Since when did I turn into such an adult?
This year, what I’d like is not to unwrap a box of pots and pans already knowing what’s underneath all that shiny paper, but to tear open my gifts with the magic of childhood anticipation, hope, and surprise by my side. Instead of wishing for a bike, or video games, or a pony, this holiday season though, I’m holding my breath for some new photography gear.
That’s what I’m REALLY hoping to unwrap for the holidays.
If you’re just beginning to make your REAL wish list too (because I know you what you really want isn’t a blender…), I thought a sneak peek into my list just might help you (or your family) know exactly what the momtographer of the family is hoping for this year. I will warn you that this list is geared more to the DSLR owner.
However if you happen to have a DSLR camera as #1 on your wish list this year check out THIS POST about making the leap and choosing the right starter DSLR camera for you.
Now onto my list…
#1: Wireless Remote (Nikon HERE — Canon HERE)
Ok ok, so this one isn’t on my list because I already own one. BUT, if you don’t have a remote, it needs to be on your list. This handy tool is going to get YOU back in the picture with your kiddos. Just prop your camera up on a table or place it on a tripod, then bring your remote with you to fire the shutter without even touching you camera! The remote is also a GREAT way to get your little ones invested in photo taking too. Let them hang onto it and fire some shots during your session together. For under $10 this would make an excellent stocking stuffer.
#2: Tripod
This is another must have. Even if you don’t think you’ll use it, put it on your list anyway. You many not lug your tripod around during your family trip to the zoo, but it can offer a steady spot to rest a camera when trying to capture the magic of July 4th fireworks, an evening inside the house, or it can provide a hands free option when you want to use that brand new remote (see above) and be in the photo. One lucky feature my DSLR also happens to have is video, so I find I use my tripod when I want to use it in that capacity too. Be sure that you invest in a good tripod though. My first tripod was not a sturdy one and it broke within the first month because my DSLR was too big and bulky for it. I am in love my Sunpak tripod it’s so much more durable and has lasted me over 3 years with no trouble.
#3: LensPen
Another inexpensive stocking stuffer, I am embarrassed to say I don’t have one of these and it shows. Honestly I didn’t even know the LensPen existed until this week but I need one bad. Fingerprints are all over both of my camera lenses and I’ve been saying ‘I’ll find a good way to clean them’ for years. The lens pen is an easy and safe way to keep your lens clean and smudge free. It’s also small enougt to be kept in one of the pockets of your camera bag. This is definitely high up on my holiday list this year so that I can keep my camera gear in tip top shape and my lenses smudge free!
#4: Lenses (Nikon HERE — Canon HERE)
I’ve personally got my eyes set on a new macro lens for my camera so that I can play with some incredible close ups detail photos. But, if you don’t own a 35mm lens yet that’s always where I recommend a Momtographer begin their lens collection. At a relatively reasonable price, the low light capabilities and tack sharp focus are my top reasons for investing in the 35mm. If that’s one you’ve already got then a reliable zoom lens (70-300mm) might be another one to explore especially if you have kiddos in sports where a zoom is necessary.
#5: Cross Body Camera Strap – Sew Tamz Designs
One of the first accessories I ever purchased for my DSLR camera was a new strap. I hated the one that came with the camera not only because the bright branded logo was soooooo not fashion forward, but also because of the fact that my camera always felt so awkward hanging over my chest. When I discovered companies that made hipster straps that fit cross body I was immediately sold! I’ve never turned back and this year I’ve got my sights set on a brand new strap from SewTamz. Not only do I love the cross body fit, and custom fabrics she offer, but hers also can be designed with a pocket to hold your cell phone as well.
#6: Invest in your Education (Momtographie LOCAL or ONLINE)
If there’s one wish I had when I first invested in my DSLR camera it was to find a class devoted and designed specifically women (or more specifically moms). That class unfortunately never existed during my beginner stages of learning, so when I mastered my camera I decided to do something about it! I now offer both local classes (in the DC area) and a 6 week online class that will get moms out of AUTO mode for good. The next Momtographie classes are scheduled for early 2015 and I DO offer gift certificates if you want to put someone in touch with me about your holiday wish to learn about your camera. I love playing the role of holiday elf and helping moms receive what they REALLY want for the holidays: an afternoon without the kids to learn about a hobby they LOVE with like minded souls who all have the same goal in mind — to take better photos of the special kiddos in their life.
Is there anything else you’re wishing for this holiday season? A camera accessory I’ve forgotten on this list? My list is always a work in progress and I’d love to hear what’s on yours so I can add it to mine! Leave a comment here and tell me what’s on your ‘Momtographer Must Haves’ list this holiday season.
And, before you go I’d appreciate it if you’d share this holiday guide by clicking the Pinterest or Facebook buttons below. Your photo loving friends will by glad you sent this wish list their way!