Frugal photography tips and tricks

Last Updated December 2020

I wanted to share with you all how I take photos for my blog without spending a lot of money. You can get quality photos without spending a lot of money.

1). Use a tripod and Bluetooth clicker to take photos yourself

The majority of the photos that I post on social media or my blog myself using this method. The two tripods I have and use are a phone tripod and an adjustable tripod with a ring light. Both include a Bluetooth clicker and I find it easier for me to use a tripod after some practice. This first time I took photos with a tripod it was frustrating but I kept trying and end up with photos that make me happy. I take anywhere from 30 or more photos each time I do a photoshoot of different backgrounds, poses and played with the lighting. This allows me to have a variety to choose from.

2). Ask someone you know to take photos for you

I have asked my friends and family to take photos for me before. It can get nerve-wracking to ask someone but if you don’t ask you don’t know how they will respond. Usually, I say insert name “I was wondering if you are okay with taking a photo for me or I am doing a photoshoot can you help me”. I have tried to offer some form of reciprocation as a thank you.

Headshot taken by a professional photographer at school event for free

3). Edit your photos

I edit the photos that I use for social media and my blog using Fotor and Adobe Spark. I use Adobe Spark for free using my student email because students can use it for free. The example above is me editing the background of a photo using the Adobe Spark Background Remover Tool.

4). Tips for hiring a professional photographer

Photographers can be expensive but if you shop around you can find a photographer that fits your budget.

Tips for when you hire a photographer

  • Browse the photographer’s portfolio to get a sense of their style. Every photographer has different specialties and experiences.
  • Get quotes from different photographers
  • Use Groupon to find deals on photographers.

I hope that you found this blog post useful and if you want to know when new blog posts are published join my email list.