Gift Guide For the Outdoor Photographer | Bags, Lenses, & More

The hottest must-haves for your next outdoor adventure selected by our pro landscape photographer and Sony Ambassador, Tiffany Nguyen.

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I'm Tiffany Nguyen, a professional outdoor and adventure photographer, and I’m beyond stoked to share a curated gift guide for my fellow outdoor enthusiasts and photography junkies.

I compiled this list of my favorite photography and videography gear for anyone looking for lightweight and quality cameras, lenses, or filters while traveling. Having the right gear is essential to the artistic process (and makes for an easier travel day!), so I’m sharing the gear I’ve been using lately that works best for my lifestyle. I’ve tested many cameras, lenses, bags, and gimbals on the market — so I’m sharing my favorite items to help make your holiday shopping a little easier this year. Let's dive in.

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1. Online Landscape Photography Course

An online digital course that never expires! You’ll learn how to take compelling landscape photos, compose a photo that tells a story, editing techniques, gear tricks, and more. Follow along as I show you my favorite spots to photograph in Yosemite while showing you the ins and outs of perfecting your creative muscles. With over 2+ hours of rich content on personal insider tips, this is the best and most timeless gift for your friend wanting to take their skills to the next level.

Introduction to Landscape Photography with Tiffany Nguyen

$50$99

Tiffany Nguyen (@tiffpenguin) has the landscape game down. She's developed the perfect guide to snap gorgeous, compelling landscape photos, and she's sharing it with you. In this lesson, Tiffany shares her formula for composition, lighting, editing and more.

*Now includes bonus episode!


**Important: All lesson purchases are final in consideration of the creator's hard work. To learn more, click here.

Still image by Tiffany from her course.
Still image by Tiffany from her course.

2. Sony Camera Set-Up and Shooting Guide

Another online course for high-quality instructions and education about the best camrea gear for serious outdoor photographers. I review the ins and outs of my personal camera gear, menu settings, and personal tricks to nail the perfect shot every time. I've been a personal Sony user and customer for decades, as their cameras and lenses have helped shape my highly successful photography career. If a painter can't be without a good paintbrush, a photographer can't be without quality camera gear to last a lifetime.

Sony Camera Set-Up and Shooting Guide

$50$99

Looking to get started with your Sony Camera? Whether you just received yours, or you’re still thinking about making your purchase, this lesson provides everything you need to know about the camera and how to use it. Sony Ambassador, Tiffany Nguyen, teaches camera set-up, menus, lenses, and any of the go-to settings she’ll utilize for crafting her iconic photographs.

This guide works great for the Sony a7, a7ii, a7iii, a7rii, a7riii, a7riv, a6000, a6400, a6600 & a9.

**Important: All lesson purchases are final in consideration of the creator's hard work. To learn more, click here.

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3. Sony Alpha 1

The Sony A1 is easily the best photography camera I’ve ever had. This delightful tool can genuinely do it all, and I’ve been so happy with its performance throughout every challenging photoshoot I’ve thrown at it. This camera excels in capturing both photos and video. Its lightning-fast autofocus with the ability to take 30 frames per second has elevated my workflow and given me even more confidence when shooting in the field. It’s an absolute beast of a camera and a true winning gift for any loved one looking for something to match their professional skillset.

Alpha 1 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Body

$5498

The most technologically advanced, innovative camera that Sony has ever released, the Alpha 1 combines high-resolution and high-speed performance at a level never previously reached. A 50.1-megapixel full-frame stacked Exmor RS™ image sensor capable of up to 30 fps continuous shooting with up to 120 AF/AE calculations per second, 8k 30p 10-bit 4:2:0 video, and much more, the Alpha 1 will allow creators to capture what they’ve never been able to before.

Note: Only available in the US.

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4. Sony 16-35mm F/2.8

This is hands down my favorite lens for landscape photography. I shoot various outdoor landscapes that require a full panoramic view of a vista, so having that wide field of view is essential when capturing vast natural scenes. It’s also incredibly lightweight and pairs perfectly with any Sony Alpha camera — making it a high-quality yet compact setup for professionals and hobbyists alike.

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FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II Lens

$2299

Combining G Master performance with the lightest and smallest form factor in its class, Sony rounds out its trinity of f/2.8 G Master zoom lenses with its latest wide-angle offering for video and stills shooters, the FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II Lens, which boasts a variety of optical, focusing, and handling upgrades.

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5. Sony 24-70mm F/2.8

If I could only carry one lens, it would be the 24-70mm lens from Sony Alpha. Its wide focal length and near-perfect range make it a versatile option for nearly shooting situations or landscapes I've traveled to. Due to its exceptional glass and low aperture, the lens also performs beautifully in low light, so I can keep shooting beyond golden hour every time. This is the best go-to lens for any mirrorless camera Sony users wanting a do-it-all option for their minimal photography toolkit.

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FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens

$2298

The FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is great for a compact yet versatile setup and allows users to capture extremely sharp, detailed imagery for both stills and video. The new lens features high resolution across the frame—even with the aperture wide open. A completely redesigned optical path features five aspherical elements, including two high-precision XA (extreme aspherical) elements. The FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II also includes two ED (extra-low dispersion) plus two Super ED glass elements. Combined with a new floating focus mechanism, the lens effectively controls chromatic aberration, astigmatism, distortion, and coma so that outstanding resolution is achieved throughout the image area at all zoom and aperture settings.

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6. Sony 70-200mm F/2.8

This lens is ideal for photographing expansive landscapes with rich layers, as it compresses the scene to deliver the profound depth you desire. It's responsible for some of my all-time favorite captures, offering a distinctiveness that stems from the unique depth it produces. While it's not typically part of my gear on lengthy hikes, I never travel without it; I'm constantly pursuing fresh perspectives. It's available in two price categories based on aperture: you can opt for either the F/4.0 or the more expensive F/2.8.

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FE 70-200 mm F2.8 GM OSS Lens

$1999.99

Boasting exceptional optics, a complete feature set, and outstanding speed in all aspects, the Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens easily takes its place as the de facto telephoto zoom for professionals. A member of the G Master series, this 70-200mm delivers high sharpness alongside smooth, clean bokeh and with an absolute minimum of aberrations. This is guaranteed through the use of an XA element, two aspherical elements, four extra-low dispersion elements, and two Super ED elements in the optical design. Furthermore, the lens has a Nano AR Coating that reduces reflections, flare, and ghosting for improved contrast and color.

Note: Only available in the US.

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7. Sony 35mm F/1.4 GM

I love this prime lens for its enhanced creative control, enabling a sharp focus on subjects against a backdrop of buttery bokeh. As someone who prioritizes traveling minimally, I find the lens's compactness perfect. Additionally, its wide F/1.4 maximum aperture is a significant advantage, affording me greater flexibility when capturing photos and videos in low-light environments.

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FE 35mm F1.4 GM Lens

$1399.99

The prime lens you'll never want to take off your camera.

The 35mm F1.4 GM is a go-to lens for a wide variety of shooting styles. It features a superior optical design, including two XA (Extreme Aspherical) elements and an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element that deliver outstanding corner-to-corner resolution, even wide open. The 11-blade circular F1.4 aperture mechanism creates beautiful bokeh that is a hallmark of the G Master series. Fast focusing is attained through the XD (Extreme Dynamic) linear focus drive system. This lens sports class-leading size and weight, providing great handling and mobility.

Note: Only available in the US.

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8. Moment AntiGlare CPL Filters

I always carry a circular polarizer filter (CPL) because it’s essential for midday shooting to cut unwanted glare and add richness to your colors. It’s an accessory you’ll want to have whenever you’re shooting near a body of water, a car, or anything that reflects a ton of light flares. It also acts as the perfect barrier between the tip of your camera lens and the ground during a brutal hit; the filter is much more affordable to replace or break than your lens, trust me!

AntiGlare CPL Filters - 67mm

$42.5$85

Our AntiGlare CPL Filters offer pro-grade polarization at a fair price. These filters help control reflections, boost colors, and mitigate shadows by filtering out unwanted glare. Using premium fused-silica optical glass and our 16 layer coatings, we’re able to achieve supreme clarity, true color, and rugged durability. We also specifically designed the geometry of the filter frame to offer a more physical grip. Built from aerospace-grade metal with machined texturing, it’s easier than ever to micro-adjust the polarization level and more importantly… easy to take the filter off your lens without it getting stuck. Optimized to be universal across camera setups, these filters are compatible with center pinch lens caps (like the one you already have) and can be stacked with other filters such as fixed NDs, Cinebloom Diffusion, and UV. Cut reflections and make your shots pop with AntiGlare from Moment. 

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9. DJI Mini 3 Pro Drone

This ultra-lightweight drone is versatile enough for nearly any situation. There are moments when I aim to capture a scene from an aerial vantage point, offering a unique perspective only aerial photography can provide. This compact and best-selling DJI drone doesn't compromise quality, delivering high-resolution images and videos without fail. Its highly portable nature ensures it's a constant companion on all my adventures. Plus, the long battery run-time is perfect for long days in the mountains without an outlet nearby.

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Mini 3 Drone - w/ DJI RC Remote & Fly More Combo

$798

The NEW DJI Mini 3 is a compact, ultra-lightweight camera drone built for adventure. It features extended battery life, detail-rich 4K HDR video, and fun features like True Vertical Shooting for social-media-optimized shots. Whether you're capturing an epic road trip or just a day in your own backyard, Mini 3 is up for the moment.

This item is available for purchase for US and Canadian customers only.

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10. DJI Osmo Mobile 7

The DJI Osmo 7 series is perfect for capturing high-quality videos on your phone. There are two modules you can choose from: the standard 7 or the 7P "Pro" model, which includes an extension rod, audio integration, and super advanced tracking systems from the gimbal itself, not the phone's screen. Both are super easy to use and affordable, which is a plus. I’ve been using it on all my trips to get smooth video clips for Instagram stories or TikToks, and it works just as perfectly as a tripod or selfie stick!

Osmo Mobile 7 Gimbal - Regular

$89

The DJI Osmo Mobile 7 series is your new all-in-one tool for capturing life as it happens. Lightweight, foldable, and easy to use, these smartphone gimbals are packed with features and are ready to go when you are.

It comes in two versions:

  • Osmo Mobile 7P - Comes with a built-in extension rod, tripod, DJI wireless mic receiver, and an adjustable light. But the real magic? The included Multifunctional Tracking Module intelligently tracks your subjects for you.
  • Osmo Mobile 7 - A simple, but powerful, grab-and-go smartphone gimbal that keeps your shots extra steady

With up to 10 hours of battery life and the ability to use the gimbal as a power bank, you’ll never have to worry about running out of power mid-shoot. The Osmo Mobile 7 series makes it easier than ever to create on the go.

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11. WANDRD PRVKE 21L

If you’re looking for a camera bag that is not only good-looking but highly functional, this is the one for you. I’ve tested many backpacks throughout my decades-long photography career and used this one for many years through rugged use. It comfortably fits my camera bodies, multiple lenses, accessories, and other essentials. I love that it has a dedicated ICU pack and rainfly to protect my gear from heavy rainstorms during overnight camping trips.

PRVKE Camera Backpack - Black / 21L

$219

The PRVKE Camera Backpack in 21L and 31L sizes is the lightweight solution to carrying your camera, laptop, and everyday essentials. That confusing name is pronounced “provoke”, and after using this backpack for a while, we’re provoked to carry our cameras with us a lot more often.

The minimalist style says streetwear, but the materials and technical design are straight out of the backpacking world. We didn’t think a backpack this small could fit this much, look this good, or inspire us to carry all our gear to more places, but the WNDRD PRVKE 21 and 31L does just that. With the configurable extras and lifetime materials, the PRVKE is along for the journey.

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12. Moment Tech Tote

A tote bag is a must-have, seriously. I always grab this one for overnighters because it can totally handle my laptop, camera gear, and, of course, snacks. Plus, it zips shut—no more stuff falling out, which is awesome! It's my go-to carry-on for flying and road trips since it fits everything so neatly, and with an extra insert, even my camera gear finds a cozy spot.

Tech Tote - Clay

$50$150

The tote to work anywhere, travel everywhere. Part work bag, part traveler, this tote keeps it simple. It’s durable and water-resistant shell fabric keeps your gear protected and tote looking good. Dedicated pockets on the inside keep your small items organized, your laptop protected, and your water bottle in place. The ultra-soft straps are tough while being comfortable in hand or on your shoulder, even when wearing a tank top. The minimally padded base helps the bag stand upright while maintaining a natural feel - unlike other over padded tech totes. This is the stylish, comfortable, and functional tote we always wanted.

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13. Moment Fanny Sling

This 2L fanny pack rocks for pretty much anything. It's great for toting my must-haves, like when I'm checking out a new city or hitting up a short hike with friends. It's not just for my phone or wallet; there's extra room for additional gear. Plus, it's perfect for cinching a smaller bag when I'm doing a chill walk around new spots or trailheads. It's versatile, handy, and won't break the bank, especially for its incredible quality compared to other slings.

Fanny Sling 2L - Black

$20$70

This is our daily, go-to fanny sling. It’s comfortable, adjustable, and fits your daily carry from wallets to keys to phones, and even a 35mm camera. The seven different adjustment points mean the pack can expand for tall people, shrink for small people, cinch down for minimal carry, or expand up to 4 inches to fit a windbreaker. We use recycled materials with a double waterproof coating so the pack can handle the weather, while still feeling comfortable against your body. Reverse coil zippers also help to protect your gear during a rainstorm. The end result is a versatile pack you can wear for hours with a variety of gear and size combinations.

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14. Moment Rugged Accessories Case

When I pack my camera gear, I prioritize keeping everything neatly organized, each item in its own spot. This compact case, with its cushioned interior and sturdy outer shell, ensures my equipment is stored safely. It's my preferred choice for carrying my drone and all associated accessories.

Rugged Camera Accessories Case

$10$30

Shooting photo & video requires more than just a camera. We wanted to create a simple, protective carrying solution that allows you to pack your essential kit for any shooting session. Its compact design allows you to slide it right into your pack or travel bag, while it’s hard shell, padded interior, and weatherproof construction keep your gear safe from harsh impacts and nasty weather. If you like traveling to all ends of the earth in search of epic shots, this might be the accessories case you’re looking for. The standard case fits extra batteries, mounts, filters, cables, and chargers. The large case fits drones, microphones, lights, gimbals, batteries, and anything else you might need. No matter which size you choose, our Rugged Camera Accessories Case is small enough to fit in your bag, and rugged enough for all conditions.

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