Hello, it’s me, your favorite budget friendly beauty blogger. From the outside looking in, content creation is all fun, great photos and perfect makeup. However, those who know, know that it is a full time job, especially as a team of one. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely LOVE blogging and creating, it’s truly my dream job. The work it takes can sometimes be overwhelming, but it’s so worth it to me. I get asked a lot about what I use and how I shoot my content for Instagram and the blog and promised that I would write a post about it. So, if you’d like to see what I use to set up my DIY Budget Friendly at home studio, I hope you’ll keep reading.
Invest In Lighting
At my previous apartment I didn’t have a window in my bedroom and relied on ring lights for filming. While my vanity has lights as well, I quickly discovered that was not enough when shooting on my iPhone. While natural light is preferred, I still found the need for better lighting since I primarily shoot in the evening. Ring lights were the game changer for creating light in my small space. Currently I have 3 ring lights and recently purchased two small box lights. Depending on your needs, I would have at least two ring lights, and one of them with a cell phone or camera holder. I recently purchased this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08HNKHRRW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 All of my lights are affordable costing between $20 and $30 each. Start with one light in your space and see how much more you may need.
Bluetooth Remote and Self Timer
Taking photos and videos of yourself can be tedious enough without stopping to run back to the camera multiple times. A bluetooth remote will give you the hands free control you need to snap and record with ease. Most of the remotes come with selfie sticks or other stand alone tripods. In addition to the remote, the self-timer on your camera or phone allows you to pose, adjust your clothes etc while getting the perfect shot. Selfie Stick with Tripod and Bluetooth Remote are extremely affordable.
The Background
Photo backdrops can be a great way to switch up the look of your photos. In photography, shooting against a solid color can make you or your images stand out. Watching tons of Youtube videos helped me decide which material and size of backdrop I would need for my space. Here’s a tip: I found two of my backdrops from my local Goodwill. One is a bed sheet and the other is a sheer blue curtain. Each of them were about 3 dollars. Backdrop stands are a convenient way to hang and store your backdrops as well as switch them out as needed. But if you choose not to purchase a backdrop stand, hanging the sheet or material on your wall works just as well. Colorful, blinged out, or solid black or white backdrops will give you variety while shooting indoors. With this in mind, don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and looks for your shoots.
You can find all of my photo backdrops from here: Content Creator Tools
Add Some Props
Admittedly, I’m still working on this portion of my photoshoots. Using props such as plants, photos, mugs, and seating can elevate the look of your photos. Currently, I have a bar cart that I use as a table with some candles and a plant. Props add texture to your photos and videos, and you don’t need a lot of things to make your shots pop. I’m still on the hunt for the perfect chair or stool to add to my props. This is where your local thrift stores and Goodwill will come in handy. There are tons of good finds in these stores and they won’t break the bank.
Most Important Tip
In conclusion, have fun! Experiment with your space no matter the size and see what works best for you. Things don’t have to cost a ton of money to work well. In fact, in the climate we are in today, more people are saving money by doing DIY projects. There will be many mistakes made while you’re figuring it out, I’m still making tons of mistakes. However, I’m learning as I get comfortable photographing and recording myself the kinks are ironing themselves out. Mostly I use my iPhone 12 pro to shoot quick photos and Instagram videos, however I recently purchased a camera to elevate my game. I’ll begin shooting on my Canon very soon and am so excited to get to know this camera and shoot my content professionally. Don’t let having your phone as your camera deter you from producing good photos. Our phones are expensive for a reason and they can really be the only camera you need, use it to it’s full capacity. Believe me, it works.
Hope this info was helpful for those of you looking to start your at home photo studio. Feel free to leave a comment and any questions.
XOXO Lydia Marie
