Checklist · 12 picks · 4 categories
Links to Amazon and Target are affiliate links. I earn a commission if you buy, at no cost to you, and it never decides a pick. How I make money
Buying camera gear for someone else is risky, because serious photographers are picky about bodies and lenses. So most of this list is the stuff around the camera: film, cards, cases, straps and wipes. If they shoot film or instant, more film is always welcome. The cameras here are starter picks for someone just getting into it, plus two splurges. Every pick comes from my camera starter list, where I explain why it made the cut and name the outlet when one recommends it. Check what card type their camera uses before buying the SD card.
Who this is not for. Skip this if you want a single product and already know which one.
budget pick · Stocking-size
Best for Any camera owner, if you know the card type
No outlet named this one yet.
Most cameras don't come with a card. This one is fast enough for photos and video.
Heads up. Easy to lose, so buy two
under $25
See it on AmazonAffiliate link. I may earn a commission at no cost to you.
budget pick · Stocking-size
Fingerprints on the lens ruin more photos than bad settings. Disposable
No outlet named this one yet.
under $25
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
budget pick · Compact
A padded pouch that protects a compact camera in your bag. Tight for bigger cameras
No outlet named this one yet.
under $25
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
mid pick · Compact
A wrist strap so you can shoot one-handed without dropping your camera. Pricey for a strap
No outlet named this one yet.
$25-50
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
budget pick · Compact
Best for Trying film for the first time
No outlet named this one yet.
A simple reusable film camera that gets two photos per frame, doubling your shots per roll.
Heads up. Needs bright light
$50-100
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
budget pick · Compact
Warm, nostalgic color film for the Ektar H35 or any 35 mm camera. Developing costs extra
No outlet named this one yet.
$25-50
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
mid pick · Gift-box
Print memories on the spot. Every dorm wall needs a photo collage. Film adds up. Gift a pack with it
Business Insider top 10 college gift.
$50-100
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
budget pick · Compact
Forty shots for the Instax Mini 12 or Mini Link printer. Still about $1 a photo
No outlet named this one yet.
$25-50
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
mid pick · Gift-box
Turns phone photos into instant prints over Bluetooth. Perfect for decorating a dorm. Needs Instax Mini film
Business Insider college gift pick.
$50-100
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
budget pick · Compact
Best for A first point-and-shoot
PhotoWorkout best under $200.
A pocket point-and-shoot with real 5x zoom and that flash-on, early-2000s digicam look.
Heads up. Struggles in low light
$100+
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
mid pick · Compact
Best for Vlogging and creators
PhotoWorkout best budget compact.
A small vlogging camera with a much bigger sensor than a digicam, for sharper photos and video.
Heads up. No zoom lens
$100+
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
splurge pick · Compact
A digital camera that shoots like film: vertical half-frame shots, film simulations and a film-advance lever. Expensive
PhotoWorkout most fun for the money.
$100+
See it on AmazonAffiliate link.
dots show how many outlets agree. the words name them.
Things they use up or carry every day: film, spare memory cards, lens wipes or a better strap. Leave lenses and camera bodies to them unless they told you exactly which one.
It is less useful if you want a single product and already know which one.
No. I have not reviewed them. I read published reviews and name the outlet on the pick.
Budget is the cheaper one that still does the job. Mid is what most people should buy. Splurge is only if you will use it often.