It’s time again for our annual guide to what photography fans want most. Whether you’re looking for something new for yourself or maybe that photographer in you life, we’ve got something for everyone. We put together this handy guide to share some ideas (or make it easy to share this wishlist).

Book
Legendary skate photographer and APA|SD member J. Grant Brittain‘s first book “PUSH” is out and ready to order. Brittain’s work spans decades and focuses on the evolution of the Southern California skate scene from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. With a forward by Tony Hawk and 224 pages of images from the analog era, it’s sure to please any skateboarder or action sports photographer on your list.

Bags and Packs
Think Tank bags and packs have been a longtime favorite around here and they keep innovating with some of the best gear protection and stylish comfort out there. From small shoulder bags to full function backpacks and airline-ready rolling cases, there’s a Think Tank bag for everyone. APA members can receive discounts and additional benefits, so check out your members discount page for details.

Cameras and Gear
For local San Diego gear and services, we proudly support our retail sponsors, George’s Camera and Nelson Photo Supplies. Both shops have been serving our photo community for decades and carry all of the pro gear you need and trust. Visit them for cameras, lighting, sensor cleaning services, rental gear, printing and film supplies. Don’t forget, your APA membership gets you some great in-store discounts. Support local!

Print Service
Speaking of local, Chrome Digital in Little Italy is our go-to shop for beautiful art print work. A friendly and helpful staff of technicians can help you create prints of all sizes and mediums. Want to print on wood or metal? They can do that. Super large format? Yup. Stop in the shop and check out the nearly limitless possibilities.

Big Light, Small Package
Our recent Untitled competition and exhibition yielded some truly inspiring work and the winners walked away with a bevy of great prizes. Lumecube graciously stepped up with some waterproof LED kits to give away and we were not disappointed. These little light cubes are so versatile, they shouldn’t be limited to photographers. Powerful, waterproof, and about the size of a golfball, they can be mounted on your DSLR, video rig, bike handlebars, helmet, or anywhere you need a compact light. Need more compact LED option? They also make panels, drone lights, workspace and ring lights. Check them out!

Experience
Looking to gift a little inspiration? An annual membership to MOPA is an excellent way to give an experience to your favorite art lover (maybe that’s you?) The Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa park holds a special distinction as one of only three museums in the nation dedicated solely to lens-based medium. APA members receive special discounts for an annual pass. While you’re at it, take a spin through the gift shop for unique photocentric gifts, apparel, and books.

More inspiration:
A gift of Luerzer’s Archive magazine will thrill the commercial artist in your life. The photo annual is considered one the most important publications in the industry – a triple shot of inspiration.

Communication Arts magazine focuses on the high level creative work and unpacks trends, highlights artists and agencies, and delivers several curated annuals in all things visual communications. A valuable resource for the commercial creative.

Frank Ockenfels 3‘s book “Volume 3” (teNeues Press) is a bold, edgy, and introspective collection of his personal work. Curated from Ockenfel’s journals, the photos, collages, drawings, and paintings tell an inside story of an artist overflowing with ideas and concepts. It’s a visual journey that will surely open your eyes to something new in your own artistic path. If you were fortunate enough to attend his presentation at MOPA in January 2020, you know what a dynamic force in photography he is.

Community
Lastly, if you are looking to give the gift of community, inspiration, and education, look no further than APA. With your membership you give a gift to yourself; a gift of support, camaraderie, learning, advocacy, and most of all, you give back to the photo community you so dearly love. Please help support APA by upgrading, renewing, or joining. We sincerely appreciate your membership.

Have a safe and wonderful holiday season and a plentiful and prolific New Year. See you in 2022!