Holiday Gift Guide 2025 – Part 8! Tool Time

Ok, we know about all the basic gear you use in your photo/video life.
How about the tools you use to get it all done?
Not photographic in nature, but everyday life use cases.

*Pixel Drive Electric Screwdriver

*ArkPro Ultra from OLight

*Leatherman Tools

One of my favorite new tools comes from a company called HOTO.
The core model for me is the Pixel Drive electric screwdriver.


In this powerful compact set, you get this well-designed cylinder
that houses 30 different bits, and the handle in one unit.

You have all the control you need with adjustable torque, depending on the job at hand.
Plus, there is an LED light at the end of the handle, so you know exactly where you are working.
This is a perfect tool to screw in your Platypod tripod mount, or honestly, put together that piece of Ikea furniture!
Adjustable power, as well as torque to customize your working experience.

Along with this main tool they also make a series of more refined tools, all based on the handle concept with multiple bits. The handles are slim, and the bits specific to each category are kept in a slim, magnetic case to keep it all organized in the best way. From screwdrivers for your electronics, to drill for those starter holes, all the way to a burnishing set, that is a perfect way to smooth out that prop you are shooting in macro. Best for hobbyist or those working on anything requiring tiny tools.
Keep is smooth and clean.
I have had the big tool cases in the past and finding the more precise bits was a huge pain.

I will admit I use their electric scrubber and it is perfect!

And who doesn’t love a great flashlight?
Right now, I have one on my desk, and one on my work areas.
This new design from OLight is definitely going in your bag.


With options like Spot, Flood, & UV, you also get 3-way power options.

One more note on the UV: if you have ever seen a crime drama where they flash a UV to see if there is any “evidence” in the crime scene, this option will let you know how much more cleaning you need to do. Nuff said.

The design of the unit is rectangular instead of round so it fits better in your pocket or even has a strong clip making it easy to attach to the brim of a cap, or belt, or secured in a pocket.


The unique textured finish, makes it a non-slip handling tool.

In addition, you get a laser pointer, which can be used as a constant green light, or activated by a button as needed.


USB-C charging, plus it’s own mag safe charging with adaptor included ,this is my new favorite, and it’s a great gift for anyone on your list.

Here are the details. The Ultra is the one reviewed.

Then we have the tried and true-
Leatherman.
This particular versatile tool has always been there in a pinch fro me. Pliers, wire cutters, a variety of screw heads, knife blades, an awl, small ruler stamped into the legs.
It all came in a leather case, have had mine for years, although now it’s nylon, that can be belt mounted.


It’s an all-in-one tool, that can solve a problem in a pinch. With 14 essential tools, this 100% stainless steel tool, has a 25 year warranty. Hard to find anythinglike that these days.  Check out the full Leatherman range

Not a dedicated tool but has a place in everyone’s life.

Just a small sampling of the tools you can use. Honestly, anyone receiving one of these is going to be a very happy camper!

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Upcoming Events

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  • A Celebration of Vision, Creativity, and Connection
  • March 1-5th, 2026
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Current Exhibitions

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    Serious Play
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