Five Star Gift Ideas

For your granddaughter who is passionate about film making and editing, I have a few thoughtful and creative gift ideas that can both inspire and enhance her skills in her chosen field:

1. Film Making Equipment: Consider gifting her a quality camera or a high-resolution video recorder. Look for one that offers manual controls and interchangeable lenses, allowing her to experiment and capture a variety of shots. Additionally, accessories like tripods, external microphones, and a stabilizer can be valuable tools for her filmmaking endeavors.

2. Editing Software: A professional video editing software can be a game-changer for any aspiring filmmaker. Adobe Creative Cloud's Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro X are popular options that provide a wide range of features and tools. Choose the software that aligns with her current skill level and fits her computer's specifications.

3. Books and Literature: Knowledge is power, and learning from the masters in the field can be an invaluable experience. Look for books that cover various aspects of filmmaking, such as screenwriting, directing, cinematography, or editing. Some well-regarded titles include "In the Blink of an Eye" by Walter Murch and "Rebel without a Crew" by Robert Rodriguez.

4. Online Courses: Help your granddaughter expand her knowledge and skills by enrolling her in an online filmmaking or editing course. Websites like Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare offer a wide range of courses taught by industry professionals. This gift will not only enhance her abilities but also connect her with a community of filmmakers who share the same passion.

5. Film Festival Tickets: Immersion into the film industry can be a great source of inspiration. Consider gifting her tickets to attend a film festival or movie premiere. These events provide opportunities to meet and learn from experienced filmmakers, watch independent films, and connect with like-minded individuals.

6. Portable External Hard Drive: Film projects can be data-intensive and may require significant storage space. A portable external hard drive with ample capacity will allow her to safely store and manage her footage, projects, and assets. Look for one that is compatible with her devices and has fast data transfer speeds.

7. Subscription to Film Magazines: Keep her updated on the latest industry trends, techniques, and news by gifting her a subscription to a reputable film magazine like American Cinematographer or Filmmaker Magazine. These publications often feature interviews with filmmakers, in-depth articles, and behind-the-scenes insights.

8. Custom Clapperboard or Slate: A personalized clapperboard or slate featuring her name or a special message can add a touch of professionalism and uniqueness to her film projects. This gift not only serves as a practical tool but also holds sentimental value.

Remember to wrap the gift thoughtfully and include a heartfelt note expressing your support and encouragement for her passion. By choosing a gift that fuels her interests, you'll be showing her how much you value and believe in 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!”