If you’ve got someone in your life who also happens to be a content creator (blogger, Instagrammer, Youtuber, etc.) then this is the post for you. As content creators, there is a lot that goes into what we create. Through the years I’ve spent a lot on #EniGivenSunday and the content I put out, and I know sometimes it’s nice to have someone who sees that and acknowledges the hustle with a gift. So, this holiday gift guide for content creators should help you out if you’re looking to do something different while also affirming your loved one’s work! Keep in mind though that everyone is different and chances are, for most of these things, I’d say you should be pretty sure that it’s exactly what they want given how particular content creators can be about their work (sorry!). It’s also just as important to make sure it’s not something they have already!
A new camera or lens
Duh! Keep in mind that creators are very particular about the brand and type of camera they may want so you’ll have to know for sure. Also, this is obviously a pricier gift, but who doesn’t love a content quality upgrade.
SD card to lightning adaptor
A small gift that can probably go as a stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift, but it is so beyond clutch. It helps directly transfer images from an SD card to your phone for when you might need pictures from a friend or photographer’s SD card ASAP or if you need to do extra editing on your phone. Trust me, they will thank you.
Social Media Planner
There is a wide range of planners out there. But you might want to consider a social media planner specifically.
Phone stand or tripod
This is another cute stocking stuffer or Secret Santa inexpensive can be a lifesaver for filming Instagram stories and lives hands-free (or even Facetiming!)
(Regular) tripod.
Tripods are fairly easy to come by, but not all are created equal, which is why your friend or loved one might be in need of an upgrade. Consider sturdier ones from Neewer, or if it’s in your budget, Manfrotto.
Anything that can double as a photo prop
A cute mug like the one pictured can double as a prop for photos. Trust me, even if it doesn’t sound like it could be related to content creation, if it looks nice enough, it is. Just be sure to keep their brand in mind. (For example, does the person include a lot of pink in their brand? Gold?)
LED Panel Lights
These lights take video and picture quality to the next level. They are also super-compact but can be more expensive than ring lights or softboxes, which is why they’d make a great gift for someone who doesn’t already have them.
Vacation or Staycation
Hear me out. Most times, trips are huge opportunities to create content. The current pandemic and the rising number of cases definitely makes traveling difficult, but a staycation is a great option if you’re willing. Why? Because hotels (or nice enough AirBnBs) provide the perfect backdrop for bathroom and bedroom lifestyle shots that a content creator may not be able to create in their own home. Often times creators even invest in a day or weekend at a hotel just for the purpose of creating sponsored content. So in gifting a trip or a hotel stay, you’re also gifting the perfect setting to create!
A course or consultation with a social media coach.
Beware, Instagram, and blogging courses can be tricky in terms of their payoff. But Mattie James, for example, is known to have some amazingly helpful courses, so I’d recommend starting there.
Editing software (e.g. final cut pro)
Final cut pro is EXPENSIVE, or an investment rather. It can be great for the YouTuber or Instagrammer who is looking to take their video editing to the next level.
An external hard drive
I don’t know a content creator who doesn’t need one if they don’t have it already.
Brevite Backpack
If they own a camera they probably need somewhere to safely put it along with the other things they carry for traveling or photoshoots. These bags are super cute and functional.
Lightroom presets
If they use the app to edit their photos, or if they want to take editing to the next level, lightroom presets can do that. The higher quality ones like the one I use can be price than the ones you might find on an app. Because editing style is so particular, this gift might work best if you write a card and in it, offer to spend xx amount on a preset of their choice.
A Photoshoot
This is pretty self-explanatory! Photoshoots can be expensive, but a high-quality photographer definitely the best thing that could happen for content creators. Do your research and schedule a photo shoot with a really good lifestyle photographer in your area
If you’ve come to the end of this guide and you’re thinking “wow, these are some expensive options” think about the fact that your content creator friend routinely spends their own money on most of these things. Yea…it’s a lot, all the more reason to incorporate it into your gift-giving this season!
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
