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Get your favorite graduate a gift that will last through the next stage of life -- or at least help preserve the memories of that time. We've got a recommendation for every skill level and budget.
Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
Managing Editor Josh Goldman is a laptop expert and has been writing about and reviewing them since built-in Wi-Fi was an optional feature. He also covers almost anything connected to a PC, including keyboards, mice, USB-C docks and PC gaming accessories. In addition, he writes about cameras, including action cams and drones. And while he doesn't consider himself a gamer, he spends entirely too much time playing them.
ExpertiseLaptops, desktops and computer and PC gaming accessories including keyboards, mice and controllers, cameras, action cameras and dronesCredentials
More than two decades experience writing about PCs and accessories, and 15 years writing about cameras of all kinds.
For the grad heading off to her next stage of life, it's time for the next stage of photography. If they're ready to graduate from a point-and-shoot to something better and faster, the GF3 makes a great next step, preserving the shooting experience of old faithful and adding many dSLR-like capabilities, but in a welcome compact design.
If the soon-to-be-ex-student you're shopping for is pretty tech-savvy and wants to flex some creative muscles, the GH2 is a great choice. It produces sharp video, gives them a better-than-dSLR video experience, and has a large community surrounding it for hacking it to even greater heights.
It's been around awhile, but there are still few cameras that can beat the S95 for its combination of size and photo quality. When your grad really doesn't care much about the geekier aspects of photography but enjoys the act of photographing and appreciates a nice shot, this camera fills the bill.
Willing to spend a decent amount of green on your favorite budding photographer? The D7000 is a great dSLR for the student shooter who's ready for something a little more serious.
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