Five Star Gift Ideas

For a son who has a keen interest in photography of abandoned buildings, there are several thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas you could consider. These options not only cater to his passion but also provide him with tools and resources to further explore and grow in his chosen field.

1. Camera Accessories: Enhance your son's photography experience by gifting him accessories that can help improve the quality and versatility of his shots. Consider items like a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the abandoned buildings, a sturdy tripod for stability during long exposures, or a camera bag to safely carry his equipment during explorations.

2. Photography Books: Books are a great source of inspiration and can help him develop his skills. Look for photography books that focus on capturing urban decay, abandoned spaces, or architectural photography. A few notable recommendations include "The Ruins of Detroit" by Yves Marchand and Romain Meffre or "Abandoned America: The Age of Consequences" by Matthew Christopher.

3. Online Photography Course: To support your son's creative journey, consider gifting him an online photography course. This will provide him with the opportunity to learn from professionals and refine his skills in capturing abandoned spaces. Platforms like Udemy and Coursera offer a variety of specialized photography courses, including architectural and urban photography.

4. Exploratory Trip: Surprise your son with a day trip or a weekend getaway to explore abandoned locations in nearby areas. Research and identify places that are safe to access and have historical significance. Not only will this gift allow him to indulge in his passion, but it will also create lasting memories.

5. Subscription to Photography Magazines: Keep your son up to date with the latest trends and techniques in photography by gifting him a subscription to photography magazines. Magazines like "Digital Photographer" or "Aperture" often feature articles on various genres of photography, including architectural and urban decay.

6. Customized Prints: Consider selecting a few of your son's best photographs and getting them professionally printed and framed. This will not only showcase his talent but also serve as a reminder of his passion and accomplishments.

7. Editing Software: Photography doesn't end with taking pictures. Most photographers spend a significant amount of time editing and post-processing their shots. Consider gifting your son a subscription to popular editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop. These tools will allow him to refine his images and develop his unique style.

Remember, beyond the material gifts, your support and encouragement play a vital role in nurturing your son's passion for photography. Take the time to listen and engage in conversations about his work, and consider attending photography exhibitions or events together.

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

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”