Five Star Gift Ideas

For a daughter who is passionate about documentary filmmaking, there are several gift ideas that can further enhance her skills and provide inspiration for her craft. Here are a few suggestions that could make her Christmas extra special:

1. Film Festival Pass: Give your daughter the opportunity to attend renowned documentary film festivals by gifting her a festival pass. This will allow her to watch a wide variety of films, network with industry professionals, and gain insights from Q&A sessions and panel discussions.

2. Subscription to a Documentary Streaming Service: Provide your daughter with a constant source of documentaries by subscribing her to a popular streaming service focused on documentary films. Platforms like Netflix, CuriosityStream, or MUBI offer an extensive collection of documentaries across different genres, providing her with an endless stream of inspiration.

3. Camera Equipment: To support her documentary filmmaking endeavors, consider upgrading her camera equipment. Research professional-grade cameras that are commonly used in the industry and select one that suits her needs and aspirations. Additionally, you can explore accessories like a tripod, external microphones, or a high-quality lens to enhance the quality of her shots.

4. Masterclass Subscription: Help your daughter learn from the best in the field by gifting her a subscription to an online educational platform such as Masterclass. This platform offers classes taught by acclaimed documentary filmmakers, where they share their insights, techniques, and experiences. This gift will provide her with valuable knowledge and guidance to further refine her skills.

5. Books on Documentary Filmmaking: Expand your daughter's understanding of documentary filmmaking by selecting books written by influential filmmakers. Look for titles such as "Directing the Documentary" by Michael Rabiger, "Making a Documentary: How to Plan, Produce, and Release a Nonfiction Film" by Barry Hampe, or "Documentary Storytelling: Creative Nonfiction on Screen" by Sheila Curran Bernard. These books will not only inspire her but also provide her with practical tips and strategies for her future endeavors.

6. Documentaries on Iconic Filmmakers: Explore documentaries about influential documentary filmmakers such as D.A. Pennebaker (“Don't Look Back”), Errol Morris (“The Fog of War”), or Ava DuVernay (“13th”). These films not only showcase the artistry and dedication of these filmmakers but also provide your daughter with valuable insights into their creative processes.

7. Film-Making Workshop: Find a local film-making workshop or course focused on documentary filmmaking. By enrolling your daughter in such a program, she will gain practical experience, network with like-minded individuals, and receive mentorship from industry professionals.

Remember, regardless of the gift you choose, the most important thing is to show your support and encouragement for your daughter's passion. Let her know that you appreciate her interests and will always be there to help her pursue her dreams.

Or you can get her a star map with an important date you share.

Elaine Bornemeier says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“These are fabulous. They are gifts, so excited for my daughters to receive them for Christmas! Thank you!”