How To Shoot On A Budget - PART 1
If you’ve just started photography or if you’re a student like myself you probably don’t own more than a kit lens or two. Photographic gear is so expensive! But don’t worry, a lot can be achieved with a few tricks. So how do you shoot quality photos on a tight budget?1. Invest in an analog lens - Seriously, if there’s one piece of advice I can give you, it’s this one. Old analog lenses aren’t expensive and you can easily find them on websites like Ebay. I bought my OI 50mm lens for only 25 bucks and also purchased an adapter for my Canon camera. The results? Drop-dead gorgeous depth of field and a dreamy film look!
analog 50 mm lens and camera amazing dof
2. Use your own clothes for shoots - Work your wardrobe! You surely own clothes that could look amazing on photos. That red dress you’ve never worn? Or that crop top with an interesting print? Check out fashion blogs like Chapter Friday or Smile Snap Sparkle and start combining items together! (Read more about this here)
You probably have unworn items in the back of your closet just waiting to be rediscovered!
3. Borrow clothes for shoots - We all have friends who own a ton of clothes. Ask them to lend you some interesting garments for your shoot or add interest with accessories. Just be careful with others’ clothes! They're meant to be given back in the same state. Shooting on a dirty floor isn’t really the best option.
4. Flea markets are your BFF - There are hidden gems to be found on flea markets, you only need to dig very carefully. Vintage clothing and jewelry, old mirrors, golden photo frames, old 90s tees and oversized sunglasses are only a few items that are being sold on flea markets. Take your time, grab a friend and try to lower the price with the seller if you think something is overpriced - some people just want to get rid of the stuff they don’t need any longer.
vintage girls on a flea market
5. Watch Youtube makeup videos - Many (aspiring or professional) makeup artists post amazing makeup videos on Youtube for any sort of style. Want to learn how to do the perfect smokey eye or apply cat eyeliner? If you know how to apply makeup to your models you won’t need to hire a makeup artist and that makes things much easier!
photographer self portrait with camera
About the author Hi! I'm Isabella and I'm a photographer, blogger and applied arts graduate. I love spending my time creatively, or watching movies, drinking tea, playing with my cats and hanging out with friends. Find me here isabellabubola.com or on Facebook and say hello!