Five Star Gift Ideas

For your granddaughter who is passionate about documentary filmmaking, I have a few gift ideas that I think she will love. These gift options will not only support and encourage her interest in filmmaking but also make her feel valued and appreciated.

1. Camera Equipment: A high-quality camera would be a perfect gift for someone interested in documentary filmmaking. Consider gifting her a professional-grade DSLR camera or a mirrorless camera. Both options offer excellent video capabilities and flexibility for shooting documentaries.

2. Filmmaking Course: Enroll your granddaughter in a documentary filmmaking course. This will not only enhance her skills and knowledge but also provide her with the mentorship and guidance of industry experts. Research local universities, community centers, or online platforms that offer filmmaking courses and select the one that suits her interests and availability.

3. Documentary Books: Expand your granddaughter's understanding of the genre by giving her books written by renowned documentary filmmakers. Some popular titles include "Directing the Documentary" by Michael Rabiger, "In the Blink of an Eye" by Walter Murch, and "Reality TV: An Insider's Guide to TV's Hottest Market" by Troy DeVolld. These books will offer insights, tips, and techniques from experts in the field.

4. Film Festival Passes: Attendees of documentary film festivals have the opportunity to watch the latest documentaries, engage in discussions with filmmakers, and network with industry professionals. Consider gifting your granddaughter passes to renowned film festivals such as Sundance Film Festival, Tribeca Film Festival, or Hot Docs. This will give her a chance to immerse herself in the documentary filmmaking community and gain inspiration from other filmmakers' work.

5. Subscription to Documentary Streaming Platforms: There are various streaming platforms that specialize in documentary content, providing access to a vast library of documentaries from all over the world. A subscription to platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or CuriosityStream will give your granddaughter the opportunity to explore a wide range of documentaries, learn from different styles, and get inspired by diverse storytelling approaches.

6. Mentorship or Internship Opportunity: If you have connections in the film industry, consider reaching out to see if there are any opportunities for your granddaughter to intern or shadow a documentary filmmaker. Practical experience and exposure to real-world projects can be tremendously beneficial in her development as a filmmaker. Alternatively, if you personally know a documentary filmmaker who could offer mentorship or guidance, arrange a meeting or virtual session where they can share their knowledge and provide feedback on your granddaughter's work.

Remember, the most meaningful gift you can give is your continued support and encouragement. Show interest in her projects, attend film screenings, and provide feedback on her work. This will not only strengthen your bond with her but also reinforce her passion for documentary filmmaking.

Or you can get her a star map with the date when she was born.

Bridget Shields says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“I wanted a keepsake to give to my father for his birthday as he has terminal cancer. He was delighted by his gift. The process of ordering was easy and delivery was prompt. A great gift idea.”