Hey there! Gary Allard here, your APA | SD Chapter Chair. It’s holiday season and that means there’s probably someone on your list deserving of a photo gift. We put together this handy guide to share some ideas (or make it easy to share this wishlist). These are some of my favorite things, in no particular order:

FujiFilm Instax Wide instant camera
This was on our list last year and I still love this camera! This is just plain fun. It’s a great way to get my head out of the digital world and take time exploring analog photography. Fuji has been great at introducing new film formats and styles for the Instax line and the creative possibilities are endless. I’ve built an entire portfolio of instant film work with these cameras. Check it out in person at Nelson Photo and use your APA membership discounts to stock up on film.

MIOPS Smart+ Camera and Flash Trigger
This is a new gadget I picked up recently and have been playing with the diverse functions it has. It’s an all-in-one sound, laser, lightning, intervalometer, HDR, flash trigger and more. With the laser function, I can capture high speed movement with precision. The sound trigger can fire the camera or flash for a multitude of uses. And the Smart+ is mobile app supported so you can turn your phone into a wireless camera control device.

Litra Professional Adventure Lighting
These little guys are awesome. Not only are they great for photo and video work, they are super handy for nighttime adventures like climbing, cycling or hiking. With multi-level output and a very compact size, they are versatile enough for any job or adventure. With a 1/4″ screw mount they will connect to just about anything you can think of. And, extra bonus, they are fully waterproof to around 30 feet. I have two LitraTorches and have used them for photo and video above and below the water.  Order your kit and get 25% off the with the APA | SD discount code APASD25

G-Drive Mobile Hard Drives: Everyone can use some extra storage. I have a couple of the 1TB drives and I can fit my entire Users file from my iMac or MacBook Pro to take on the road. This makes it handy to backup a system or keep everything in one place. A little larger than an iPhone, it’s an essential workhorse and a bargain at around $100.

GoPro Hero
No secret that the GoPro is the go-to compact adventure camera for most videographers. The wide array of options and the recently introduced new models make it an easy entry into video.  I keep a little GoPro Hero kit on hand for behind-the-scenes stuff or when I need to get an interesting angle from a tight spot. The addition of voice-control is nifty, as well as the remote operation from iOS or Android. Visit George’s Camera or Nelson Photo to check out the whole line. Be sure to mention your APA membership for discounts.

Museum of Photographic Arts Membership
I can’t say enough about this place. Their programs and exhibitions just keep getting better and better. This museum is very unique because it’s one of only a handful of dedicated photography museums in the world, and it’s right here in our backyard. We have such gratitude for their continued involvement with APA | SD. Give a gift of membership that will last the whole year.

ThinkTank Bags and Cases
ThinkTank has been an ongoing supporter of APA for many years and their gear stands the test of time. They make a vast line of products to suit any level of photographer. I use the Airport Roller Derby and the Vision 13 shoulder bag. Both are high functioning, carry all the gear I need for a small shoot and fit neatly in the overhead compartment with elegance. Check out the ThinkTank discounts on our member benefits page.

CreativeLive Classes
I’ve been a big fan of CreativeLive since its launch. It’s now grown to include many more categories beyond photography and filmmaking so it’s worth a look for any creative mind. Need to learn how to make a motion graphic in After Effects®? Just get a new version of Final Cut Pro®? Brushing up on your Photoshop CC® skills? Head on over and get schooled. APA members receive a 20% discount on courses.

Bonus Round:
Lifeproof phone case: Make your phone waterproof and lifeproof. The latest e release includes cases for the iPhone 11 series. Mine is with me on all adventures.
Smove Gimbal Stabilizer: iPhone video stability with an economic price tag.
PDN Magazine: Use your APA membership discount for one the best industry publications out there.
Chrome Digital: Print your work! High quality local printing with excellent hands-on customer service. Make something beautiful.

Have your own great gift ideas? Drop a comment or connect with me on Facebook or Instagram.

Happy Holidays from all of us here at APA | SD!