How I built a beginner photo studio while expecting our first born
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I can’t imagine the anxiety of an expecting parent right now. If you need an ear, we’re always here (email). What I can offer is a project to channel that energy – a starter photo studio for cheap.
Here’s the essential gear to get you going
Tripod – $26
Having some type of tripod is a must. You can spend a ton on tripods and they do get more stable and provide more better support. But for under $30, having this one over nothing wins every time. Yes, I bought this same one 7 years ago and still use it for every family photo shoot for the holidays.
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Lighting and Background Kit – $73
This package has more than you’ll need, and a storage bag to pack it up. I got a kit similar to this 7 years ago and we still use it for impromptu photo shoots. The great thing about this setup is that you can even take great photos with a smartphone. The always-on lamps provide versatility over high speed sync flashes. You also avoid too many flashes on the baby’s eyes.
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Additional Items
As you grow you’ll probably add on new gear to help you get the photo you’re looking for.
Quick Tips: Newborn Photo Shoots
- Space Heater – overheat the area where you’ll be shooting to make it cozy, especially if you have little homie shooting in the nude or “cute” crochet diaper from Etsy.
- Fill’er up – a full baby is a happy baby. Shoot when they get that milk drunk look on their face as they doze off. Keep a bottle nearby.
- Learn studio lighting – YouTube you’re way through this – here’s a good one
- Don’t Force It – don’t expect to be done in 2 minutes. Take your time, redo an outfit or shoot plenty of times if needed. Keep expectations low or it can go bad, quickly.
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The Origin Story
I spent most of the year learning how to use a DSLR that would capture all of our family photos for years to come. With not much left in the budget, I set out to get as much studio gear as I could for under $200. At the time my lighting and background kit was $130, the AmazonBasics tripod was $30, and I bought a flash for $35. I’m glad to report that it’s all still functional, beside swapping out the bulbs a few times with household daylight LED floodlight bulbs.