In spite of the fact that I'm a near-master when it comes to taking photos of myself (you know the kind where you hold the camera out with your arm and guesstimate what the lens will capture), my favorite store Hammacher Schlemmer has a much better, more accurate solution. The self-portrait camera extension arm allows you to take the photos you want anyplace you go (under water scuba adventures, summit of Mount Everest, Rockefeller Center at the Macy's Day Parade). Clumsy-proof, the arm is made of shatter-resistant polycarbonate and tough aluminum. It will extend up to 181/2" and can hold cameras and camcorders up to 16oz.

Perfectly packable, it collapses down to 7 1/2", fitting nicely into your bag of choice or even your pocket. My favorite feature? It's the built-in positioning mirror, so every shot you take can be a great one (Ansel Adams would be proud young jedi!). Last detail is that it has a 1/4 20-thread universal tripod adapter that fits most cameras.

If you travel alone or are too nervous to hand over your excellent camera to a stranger while you and your buddies pose pretty, this is a wonderful gift!

Price: $39.95 at Hammacher Schlemmer.

Related posts on camera stands and tripods:
Klikk camera stand
Millipod Micro-Tripod
Quick family photos with Quik Pod