Spinlight 360- Event Modular Often, we don’t have time to set up an elaborate lighting arrangement, but we still need the light to not look like it came off a disposable Kodak. For times like those, a quick and easy system is key, and that’s where the Spinlight comes in. A brand new product to 2012, this compact kit is sturdy and modular- two important factors to the most discerning of photographers. [B&H Video]

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Lowepro Event Messenger 250 AW I personally like this bag for those smaller projects when you don’t want to, or need to, carry around more than one body and a lens. It’s also great for mirrorless/ILC cameras since the bodies tend to be so compact. For mirrorless cameras, these can carry a body and two lenses easily. [Amazon| B&H ]

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JOBY UltraFit Sling Strap for Women Looking for that ergonomic, lightweight and sturdy strap for the female photographer in your life? JOBY’s UltraFit Sling Strap is a mighty fine choice. Designed especially for women, you won’t have to worry about it not fitting her. Buying a strap is like buying shoes: if she’s gonna love it, it has to fit. [Amazon| B&H ]

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GorillaPod Tripods are a must, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Finding a portable, lightweight and affordable tripod that is also reliable can be tough, but the GorillaPod stands out in a market saturated by mediocrity. I’ve been pretty impressed with how sturdy these little guys are, and they do what no regular tripod can: they wrap and morph into whatever situation is at hand. Really useful if your favorite photog likes to travel. [Amazon| B&H ]

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Lowepro Lens Exchange Case Lowepro’s Lens Exchange Case if perfect for that special someone who likes options when it comes to his lenses. The bag’s design lets you change out a lens with one hand, which is nice when compared to the alternative (fumbling, dropping, breaking, sobbing, etc.). This case temporarily holds and separates two lenses as you detach the working lens and grab the second. Simple, functional, and affordable. [B&H Lowepro Amazon]

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SanDisk EXTREME Memory Cards Everyone needs a memory card these days, and for most of us out there that means a good CF card. Though many strict photographers won’t want a card that carries more than 8 gigs because they are afraid of putting all their info in one basket (loss, stolen, etc), videographers NEED at least 16 gigs when shooting video. [Amazon | B&H Video ]

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Lens Mugs Ok, yes they are a little silly. But I’ll be damned if I don’t get a laugh out of mine every time I take it outside. They’re funny, they work, and they fit our industry. Just don’t leave it in your car, I actually know someone who got broken into because they thought it was a real lens sitting there. Not cool. [Amazon]

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Custom SLR Glide Strap Sometimes a good strap can make all the difference, and this strap makes annoyingly heavy loads feel like nothing. It’s an awesome product, and a great deal for only $35. [Amazon | B&H Video ]

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Paper Towel Film Canisters If your photog friend has been looking for a stylish way to store his paper towels, now you have the solution. Ok, so they’re cheesy, but cheesy in a good way. I guarantee you’ll get a laugh out of everyone, especially whomever you gift this to. It’s hilarious! [Gadget.Brando.Com]

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Black Rapid SnapR-20 Not everyone shoots with DSLRs, and with the onset of new compact mirrorless cameras all over the market, this little strap and bag will work great for you. The strap slings your small camera easily into the small pouch and out again. Keep the camera safe while still having it ready at a moment’s notice.[Amazon | B&H Video ]

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Lowepro Classified Sling 220 AW Sling bags rock, and Lowepro makes the best. Their design is wicked and is made to fit a photographer’s life. Easy access to compartments, carries a lot of gear, and is a sweet deal for less than $100.[Amazon | B&H Video ]

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Eye-Fi 8 GB SDHC Memory Card So if your friend’s camera takes an SD rather than a CF card, they have the option to go with the wildly popular Eye-Fi card. If you know us, you know that with one of these you can shoot photos directly to your iPad or Nexus 7. Awesome. [Amazon | B&H Video ]

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Photek SoftLighter Yeah, they’re a little retro, but in Patrick’s words “some of the best photographers still use these.” I think he’s referring to himself. Whatever the case may be, they do a really great job keeping the light where you want it, minimizing light spill. Quick, easy, and they give you great results. Any photographer would happily accept one of these as a gift. [B&H Video]

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PocketWizard AC3 Zone Controller Many photographers will already have a PocketWizard, but if they don’t have a Zone Controller, this is a great gift for them. When you add the Pocket Wizard AC3 ZoneController to your on-camera MiniTT1 Transmitter or FlexTT5 Transceiver, you instantly have three zones of flash control. Whether in E-TTL II or Manual mode, you have control over all your flashes from your camera position. Put your flashes wherever you want, without worrying about having to access them during a shoot. [Amazon | B&H]

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Rogue FlashBender Large The Rogue FlashBender Large Positionable Reflector can be used either as a reflector to bounce light onto a subject, as a flag to shield light away from it or as a snoot to produce a tight and narrow circle of light. Because of its size, the Large Reflector is perfect for off-camera use. These things are really slick because of how lightweight and multi-functional they are. If your photog loves his speedlight, he will love this. [Amazon | B&H]

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