Image of an old film projector

Gifts for Film Students: Top 30 Practical and Creative Ideas

Film students are passionate about their craft and are always looking for ways to improve their skills.

If you know a film student or aspiring filmmaker, you might be wondering what to get them as a gift.

Luckily, there are plenty of thoughtful gift ideas for film students that can help them on their cinematic journey.

With the right gift, you can help them on their journey to becoming a successful filmmaker.

Best Gifts for Film Students

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a film student, aspiring filmmaker, or movie fan, you’ve come to the right place.

Whether they’re just starting out in film school or already working in the film industry, there are plenty of good gifts that will help them hone their cinematic craft and stay organized on set.

From fancy cameras and external audio recorders to fluid head tripods and smartphone video rigs, there are many different types of gear that can make a big difference in their filmmaking journey.

Additionally, gift options like a storyboard notebook, boom pole, lightweight tripod, or memory cards can be relatively affordable and practical.

For a more unique gift, consider movie memorabilia, a vintage camera design t-shirt, or a custom-made film reel poster.

Whatever you choose, these gifts for film students are sure to be appreciated and help them achieve their filmmaking goals.

Look at You Making Films and Shit Candle

Look at You Making Films and Shit Candle Filmmaker Gift image 1

  • Unique & funny slogan
  • Eco-Friendly Soy Wax Candle
  • Hand-poured in USA
  • 7 different scents available

View Price

Film Clap Board

Black Professional Vintage TV Movie Film Clap Board Slate Cut Prop Director Clapper

If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for a film student or aspiring filmmaker friend, this clap board is a great option.

Pros

  • The vintage camera design is unique and makes a great conversation starter.
  • Budget-friendly gift for film students or cinema buffs.

Cons

  • The clapboard is not meant for a lot of use/handling and can be delicate.
  • The top section may come off during shipping and require gluing.
  • The up/down part is kind of delicate and may break with frequent use.

The vintage camera design adds a touch of nostalgia to any set and can be used as a prop or decoration. 

However, it’s important to note that the clapboard is not meant for a lot of use/handling and may be delicate.

The top section may come off during shipping and require gluing.

The up/down part is also kind of delicate and may break with frequent use.

Overall, this is a relatively inexpensive gift for film students or film buffs looking for movie memorabilia to add to their collection.

Film Making Movie Director Gift Tee

Filmmaker Shirt Funny Film Making Movie Director Gift Tee

If you’re looking for a relatively budget-friendly gift for your film student friend or ambitious filmmaker, this tee is a thoughtful option.

Pros

  • The shirt is made of high-quality materials that ensure comfort and durability.
  • The vintage camera design is a conversation starter and perfect for film enthusiasts.

Cons

  • The sizing may not be accurate for everyone, so it’s best to double-check the size chart before purchasing.
  • The shirt may not be suitable for formal occasions.
  • Some people may not like the design of the shirt.

This shirt is a perfect gift for film students or anyone who loves making films. The shirt is lightweight and comfortable, making it great for long hours on set or for everyday wear. The vintage camera design is unique and eye-catching, making it a great conversation starter for film buffs.

The Filmmaker Shirt Funny Film Making Movie Director Gift Tee is made of high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. The double-needle sleeve and bottom hem ensure that the shirt will hold up through many washes and wears.

This shirt is a great way to show your love for the cinematic craft. It is perfect for hopeful filmmakers, film students, and anyone who loves movies. The shirt is also a great way to support your filmmaker pal or family member.

Overall, the Filmmaker Shirt Funny Film Making Movie Director Gift Tee is a great present for any film lover. It is a unique and thoughtful gift that is sure to be appreciated. Get yours today and show your love for the art of filmmaking!

Cinema Tote Bag

PWHAOO Cinema Tote Bag

If you are looking for a relatively low-cost gift for film students, this tote bag can be a great option. It has a unique design with all kinds of movie references, making it a perfect gift for film buffs, ambitious filmmakers, and movie lovers.

Pros

  • The bag is made of 100% polyester, which makes it durable and abrasion-resistant.
  • It has a vintage camera design that can be a great conversation starter.
  • The bag is relatively lightweight and can be easily carried around.

Cons

  • The bag’s dimensions are 36 cm x 32 cm (14.17″ x 12.6″), which may not be big enough for some users.
  • The bag’s manual measuring permissible error can cause slight size discrepancies.
  • The bag has no internal pockets or compartments, so it may not be the most practical option for carrying multiple items.

This tote bag can be a thoughtful gift for film students, film production enthusiasts, and filmmakers. The bag is nicely packed in a protective bag, which ensures that it arrives in perfect condition. It can be used as a stylish shopping bag, a book bag, or a general purpose tote bag.

The bag’s vintage camera design is a nice touch that adds to its appeal. It can be a great conversation starter and a way to show off your love for classic films. The bag is relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry around, and its abrasion-resistant material ensures that it can withstand wear and tear.

However, the bag’s size may not be suitable for everyone, and its lack of internal pockets or compartments may limit its practicality. The bag’s manual measuring permissible error can also cause slight size discrepancies, so it’s important to keep that in mind.

Film Tie

Maker V Film/TV Necktie

This necktie is an excellent gift for any film student, filmmaker pal, or movie fan. The film clapper motif on a charcoal grey background with black and white embroidery gives it a high-end look and feel. The necktie is made of microfiber and is 100% handmade in the USA. It measures slightly narrower at 2 3/4″ wide for a more modern look and is standard 58″ in length.

Pros

  • The film clapper motif gives it a unique design and makes for a great conversation starter.
  • The high-end look and feel of the necktie make it a thoughtful gift for any film enthusiast.
  • The microfiber material makes it relatively cost-effective compared to other fancy neckties.

Cons

  • The narrow width may not be suitable for everyone’s taste.
  • The film clapper motif may not be appropriate for formal occasions.
  • Some may find the price to be a bit high for a microfiber necktie.

This necktie is perfect for any filmmaker or film student who wants to show off their love for the cinematic craft. It’s also a wonderful gift for anyone in the film production business, from filmmakers to film editors. The Maker V Film/TV Necktie is a must-have for any film buff or movie fan.

The unique design of the necktie is perfect for anyone who loves vintage camera designs or classic films. It’s a great conversation starter and will surely be appreciated by anyone who receives it as a gift. The high-end look and feel of the necktie make it a perfect present for any occasion.

Overall, this necktie is a superb gift for any film student, filmmaker, or movie buff. It’s a unique and thoughtful gift that will surely be appreciated by anyone who receives it. Get yours today and show off your love for the cinematic craft!

Two Tone Mug

3dRose Film Two Tone Mug

This mug is a perfect gift for any film student, movie lover, or film buff. It has a unique design that features a vintage camera design, making it a great conversation starter. The mug is relatively affordable, making it a thoughtful gift for your filmmaker buddy without breaking the bank.

Pros

  • The mug has a high gloss finish that makes it look fancy.
  • The image is printed on both sides of the mug, making it visible from any angle.
  • The mug is microwave safe, but it’s recommended to hand-wash it to preserve the image.

Cons

  • The mug is only available in 11oz size, which may not be big enough for some people.
  • The mug may not be suitable for people who prefer a plain design.
  • The mug may not be as durable as other mugs on the market.

This mug is a marvelous gift idea for hopeful filmmakers and film students. The vintage camera design is unique and eye-catching, making it a perfect present for any occasion.

The high gloss finish of the mug makes it look fancy and expensive, while the image printed on both sides adds a touch of personality.

The mug is relatively affordable, making it a great option for those who are on a budget.

It’s also microwave safe, which is a plus for people who enjoy drinking hot beverages.

However, it’s recommended to hand-wash the mug to preserve the image.

Overall, this mug is a grand gift idea for anyone who loves classic films, vintage cameras, or film production.

It’s a thoughtful and unique gift that is sure to be appreciated by any film enthusiast. 

Cosmetic Makeup Bag

BDPWSS Write Shoot Edit Repeat Filmmaker Film Director Gift Funny Filmmaking Gift For Movie Buff Script Writer Gift Film School Student Graduation Cosmetic Makeup Bag For Women

If you’re looking for a relatively affordable gift for a film student or movie lover, this cosmetic makeup bag is a great option.

Pros

  • The bag features a cool vintage camera design that is sure to be a conversation starter.
  • The bag is made of soft polyester material with exquisite workmanship, strong zipper, double-sided printed, waterproof coating with an awesome quote and stunning print on the surface.
  • The bag is the perfect size to keep all your make-up and bits & pieces safe. It’s a great travel companion, either on a day out for errands or for a trip across the country.

Cons

  • The light color of the outer fabric might get dirty easily.
  • The bag might be too small for some people.
  • The bag might not be suitable for carrying larger items.

The vintage camera design is a cool feature that makes this bag stand out. It’s a great conversation starter and a perfect way to show your love for filmmaking. The bag is made of soft polyester material with exquisite workmanship, strong zipper, double-sided printed, waterproof coating with an awesome quote and stunning print on the surface. The bag is also relatively affordable and makes a perfect gift for any film buff.

However, the light color of the outer fabric might get dirty easily, so it’s important to be careful when using it. Additionally, the bag might be too small for some people, especially if they need to carry larger items.

Notebook

Movie Ideas Notebook

Looking for a thoughtful gift for a film student or filmmaker pal? This notebook is a amazing gift idea for students who are looking to break into the film making business. This notebook is a perfect gift for cinema buffs and movie lovers who are looking to stay organized and jot down their creative thoughts.

Pros

  • The notebook has a vintage camera design that makes it a great conversation starter.
  • It is relatively affordable and makes a perfect gift for film students on a budget.
  • The notebook has 200 pages which provide ample space for thoughts and notes.

Cons

  • The notebook is just a plain notebook inside and lacks any special features.
  • The cover is cute, but anyone could do this to a plain notebook.
  • The notebook is not suitable for film editors or filmmakers who need to make detailed notes.

This notebook is a perfect gift for film students and aspiring filmmakers who want to capture their cinematic craft in a notebook. This notebook is a great way to stay organized and jot down ideas for your next big project. It is also a great conversation starter with its vintage camera design.

It is relatively affordable and makes a perfect gift for film students on a budget. The notebook is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around on set or to film school.

The notebook is just a plain notebook inside and lacks any special features. The cover is cute, but anyone could do this to a plain notebook. The notebook is not suitable for film editors or filmmakers who need to make detailed notes. However, it is still a great gift idea for any film enthusiast or budding filmmaker.

In conclusion, this notebook is a unique gift that any film student or aspiring filmmaker would appreciate. It is a great way to capture your thoughts and stay organized on your filmmaking journey. 

Buying Guide

Choosing the perfect gift for film students can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the cinematic craft. When selecting a gift, you want to make sure that it is useful, practical, and thoughtful. Here are some features to consider when selecting the best gift for film students:

Functionality

A great gift for film students should be functional. It should help them in their filmmaking journey, whether they are aspiring filmmakers, film editors, or film producers. Consider gifts that will help them stay organized, such as a storyboard notebook, memory cards, or an external audio recorder. A fluid head tripod, a lightweight tripod, or a smartphone video rig are also great gifts that can help them achieve steady shots and reduce noise.

Practicality

When selecting a gift for a film student, practicality is key. Choose gifts that they can use on a daily basis, such as a boom pole, a remote control, or a T-shirt with a vintage camera design. Alternatively, you could consider gifts that will help them improve their filmmaking skills, such as a Masterclass subscription to learn from industry experts like Ron Howard or James Cameron.

Read next: Gift Ideas for Rich Friends

Affordability

Gifts for film students don’t have to break the bank. There are many relatively affordable gifts that are perfect for movie lovers, cinema buffs, and aspiring filmmakers. For example, a cinema-themed card game, a custom-made boom pole, or a poster of their favorite film can make a thoughtful gift without breaking the bank.

Uniqueness

A unique gift can be a great conversation starter and make a lasting impression. Consider gifts that are not only functional but also have a unique design, such as a personalized piece of jewelry, a vintage camera-shaped keychain, or a stylish camera bag. A T-shirt with a witty filmmaking quote or a coffee mug with a reel design can also be a great gift for a cinephile friend.

Compatibility

When selecting a gift for a film student, make sure it is compatible with their equipment and style. For example, if they use DSLR cameras, consider a lens kit or a fancy camera bag. If they prefer smartphone footage, a smartphone video rig or a portable external microphone can be a great addition to their filmmaking gear. Additionally, consider gifts that are compatible with their editing software, such as Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere Pro.

Read next: Gifts for Preschool Directors

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique gift ideas for aspiring filmmakers?

If you’re looking for a great gift for a film student or aspiring filmmaker, consider a vintage camera design t-shirt, a storyboard notebook, or a custom-made boom pole. These gifts are not only practical, but also stylish and unique. Other great gift ideas include a smartphone video rig, a fluid head tripod, or an external audio recorder.

What are some must-read books for film students?

For film students, there are a number of books that are considered must-reads. Some of the best books for aspiring filmmakers include “In the Blink of an Eye” by Walter Murch, “The Filmmaker’s Handbook” by Steven Ascher and Edward Pincus, and “Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting” by Robert McKee.

What are some practical gifts for film editors?

If you’re looking for a practical gift for a film editor, consider a lightweight tripod, a memory card storage case, or a Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere Pro course. These gifts are not only useful, but also relatively inexpensive.

What are some thoughtful gifts for film professors?

If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for a film professor, consider a classic reel poster, a movie memorabilia coffee mug, or a card game based on famous movie quotes. These gifts are not only thoughtful, but also make great conversation starters.

What are some useful gifts for cinematography students?

For cinematography students, consider a smartphone footage stabilizer, a macro lens for smartphone cameras, or a fluid head tripod. These gifts are not only useful, but also relatively cheap

What are some great gift ideas for film directors?

For film directors, consider a masterclass subscription, a personalized director’s chair, or a vintage movie camera-inspired wall decor. These gifts are not only great presents, but also show your appreciation for their cinematic craft.

 

How I do things

As a mother, I understand the struggle of finding the right gift for loved ones and the importance of making meaningful gestures. That’s why I created this website—to share my insights, experiences, and gift ideas with fellow parents and gift seekers.

Find out more about me

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