Photo, Video & Audio Gift Ideas

Photo, Video & Audio Gift Ideas

Author: Steve Brazill November 18, 2022 Duration: 49:10

A few episodes ago I talked about how I edit and finish some of my images in the episodes on Dodge & Burn + and Photoshop + Nik Color Efex Pro + Nik Silver Efex Pro. After those shows went live I received a few comments from people that they didn’t own some of the software I mentioned, like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or the DxO Nik Collection of plugins.

That got me thinking that maybe some gift ideas might help some people. All of the things I mention in this show will make great gifts for the upcoming holidays, but if you watch this after the holidays don’t worry! These gifts are timeless.

In this show I break down some suggestions into categories as follows:

    • Software
    • Hardware
    • Accessories
    • Services
    • Store Suggestions

In some cases, where I don’t have a preference or the experience with a particular product, I may mention a gift idea without making a specific product suggestion. Mainly, I want to pass on things that I know, use, and / or just like.

Lastly, none of the links below are affiliate codes! I make nothing off any purchases made through these links, but do note that I do have some discount codes on this site.

Hopefully these suggestions will make shopping for the photographer, videographer, podcaster, or general creative in your life easier.

Software:

Adobe Photography Plan

CaptureOne

Photo Mechanic

Nik Collection by DxO

Topaz Bundle

Ecamm Live Subscription

Backblaze Backup

Hardware:

MICS:

Shure SM7B

Shure MV7

Heil PR40

Video Mics from Rode or Deity

INTERFACES:

Shure X2U

Sound Devices MixPre 3 II

LIGHTING:

El Gato Key Light

Aputure MC RGB

FJ Westcott Flashes, Modifiers & Backdrops

Nanlite Products

STORAGE:

Synology NAS

External or Portable HDD – Lots of option available

VIDEO:

Black Magic Design ATEM Mini

Accessories:

BAGS, BELTS & STRAPS:

Think Tank

Black Rapid Straps

MISC:

Zeiss Lens Wipes

El Gato Stream Deck (Sm, Reg, XL or the new Stream Deck +)

Platypod – (Discount Code Here)

Custom Ear Plugs – Ultimate Ears

Services:

LensRentals.com – (Discount Code Here)

KelbyOne Membership – (Discount Code Here)

Creative Live Membership – (Discount Code Here)

PHLEARN Membership – (Discount Code Here)

Shoot From the Pit with David Bergman

Store Suggestions:

B & H Photo & Video – Deal Zone

Adorama

DVE Store


Steve Brazill hosts Behind the Shot-Video, a series that goes far beyond gear lists and camera settings. Each conversation is a deep exploration of the creative and technical journey behind compelling images. You’ll hear working photographers unpack the entire process-from the initial spark of an idea and the challenges of the location to the critical decisions made in post-production. This podcast sits at the unique intersection of art and practical technology, offering tangible lessons for anyone looking to improve their visual storytelling. Rather than abstract theory, these discussions provide a real-world look at problem-solving under pressure and the artistic choices that define a signature style. Tune in for honest, detailed breakdowns that reveal how memorable shots are truly built, layer by layer. It’s an essential resource for visual artists seeking both inspiration and actionable knowledge, all grounded in the lived experience of accomplished creators.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

Behind the Shot - Video
Podcast Episodes
Creative Portraits and Headshots [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:15:34
It looks like I will owe Dave Williams a beer, or whisk(e)y. Dave is one of the best there is, and I am so lucky that he’s been on the show a few times. Well, a few weeks ago Dave emailed me to introduce me to Kersten Lu…
Using Remote Cameras [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 0:00
David Bergman has been on the show many times. Along with twice on the normal shows, first back on Episode 48 for “Composition, Creativity, and Workflow”, and then on Episode 137 for a “Making Better Action Photos”, he w…
Photoshop + Nik Color Efex Pro + Nik Silver Efex Pro [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:43
A few episodes ago I talked about masking in Lightroom, which is one of my favorite new features in the program. It wasn’t a deep dive into masking, but a demonstration of how I use masks in Lightroom to add depth to my…
Creative Lighting [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:28
There are rankings in photography that I had no idea even existed. For example, the #1 Fearless Photographer in North America, and Top 3 in the World, for 2021 is Jason Vinson. He’s also ranked as one of the Top 100 Fear…
Focusing On The Moment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:13
I know a lot of photographers that work in multiple genres, but Kevin Jairaj is unique among them. One day he might be shooting a wedding, and a few days later college or pro sports. Then, on the days in-between, you mig…
Best Photo Advice You’ve Been Given? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:56
Today is another special episode, at least to me it is. In the almost six years I have been doing this show I have had guests share so much knowledge, and that got me thinking. “What is the Best Photo Advice You’ve Ever…
Dodge & Burn + [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:09
I have always had a love / hate relationship with Lightroom, meaning 20% love and 80% hate. There are just parts of this app that drive me crazy, or seem like they’re designed by someone that has never edited a photo in…
Creating Better Corporate & Environmental Portraits [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:58
Corporate portraits can be challenging. Everything from tight spaces and limited time, to a mix of personalities and desired goals, the photographer has to become the fixer. Adding to that, telling the story of what some…
Favorite Light Setups [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:28:16
LA based photographer Ian Spanier was first on the show back in 2019 for a conversation about Classic Portraits & Classic Lighting, discussing a portrait of actor Jeff bridges. His lighting style immediately struck me as…