As a college student with two
part time jobs, I know how difficult it is to be a photographer on a tight
budget. I also know the desperation when viewing “adorable newborn photography
props” on Pinterest and then looking at their prices! This being said, thrift
stores are my best friend!
Many
people dislike thrift stores because they may sometimes be seen as “dirty” or
“unsanitary,” all but that is irrelevant. When going to a thrift store, know
whether or not that company sanitizes their products by asking the manager.
Personally, it doesn’t matter to me whether they do or not, I do this process
when returning home. This is important when using the materials with customers.
Instead
of purchasing the expensive backgrounds, props, outfits, and other grueling
photographer duties, you can get creative! When I am shopping at various thrift
stores, I go straight for the furniture section! You can find so many
child-sized, vintage, unique stools and chairs that may need a little love, but
can be turned into beautiful props with a little paint! After the furniture, I
head towards the linens, tablecloths, and blankets. This is where I have found
some of my favorite backgrounds! You just have to make sure that the fabric
will be large enough for a background. Other sections I check out are the décor
and misc. sections which include materials like baskets, frames, hats, and
other items that can be turned into unique and adorable props!
When
you’re a photographer on a budget, you must think creatively! Other than just
looking at thrift stores for great items, you need to think of any additional
uses for said items. When you see an item, think of how you would photograph
the item or how you can change the item into something else. For example,
baskets can be used to hold flowers or anything else, but you can also fit a
cute, little newborn in them as well! A frilly, old doily or oversized sweater
can be turned into a beautiful infant’s hat or headband. Any old hat can be
turned into a new and improved hat with the help of a glue gun and some
flowers!
Being
a photographer with a tight budget isn’t a setback, it is simply a reason to
get creative and think outside of the box!
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These
records were found at a family friend's abandoned home!
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This
background is simply a cheap, white sheet from Goodwill (TIP: Iron first)!
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This
crate was a great find and I use it constantly (TIP: it also makes a great
step stool)!
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Frames
can be used in multiple ways, get creative!
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Use
seasonal props like pumpkins and leaves and just carve them or embellish them
with a sharpie!
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Wallpaper
makes for a great, cheap background! Use with dollar store Santa hats and
ornaments and you're set!
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This
chalkboard was found at a local thrift store!
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This
"K" was actually the beginning of someone's old "KEYS"
sign!
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Use whatever you
can find to add something to your photos!
