I have been a “photographer” since age eleven when I got my first camera. The compliments and rave reviews I got from that first roll of film ignited a passion in me that has never stopped growing. I eventually turned that passion into a part time business, my own photography studio. I am going to share with you how to start a photography studio for less than $1,000. That $1,000 includes everything but the camera and camera accessories. I am going to assume you already have this equipment.
Lighting and Backdrops
Studio lights and backdrops are essential to getting interesting and well lit photographs. Usually these lights and backdrops to start a photography studio cost hundreds of dollars each. However, a new company, Square Perfect, has entered the photography world and they have a studio set that includes two strobes, one sync flash, three lightstands, two soft boxes, reflector umbrella, foldable double-sided reflector, three muslin backdrops, one barndoor, four color gels, one honeycomb, one snoot, one two channel radio receiver sync cord, plus all the bulbs cords, and carrying case. I got my set on Ebay with shipping and three year extended warranty for just over $400.00, just search for Square Perfect SP3500.
Backdrop Stand
My first backdrop stand was made from PVC pipe from Home Depot. Is was even portable. By using three foot sections with connectors in between I was able to fit the whole stand into an oversized gym bag. However, since you will be on Ebay buying your SP3500 Studio Kit you can also pick up a lightweight portable backdrop stand for around $50.00.
Chromakey Backdrop
Chromakey backdrops come in green or blue and are perfect for digital photography. A chromakey backdrop ensures that your background color will not match any other colors in your photo. Making it a breeze to replace the background of your image in Photoshop. Don’t settle for the cheap plastic backdrops. On Ebay you can find a nice muslin chromakey backdrop for under $75.00.
Digital Backdrops
If you don’t want to create your own digital backdrops there are many companies that sell CD’s with digital backdrops. I recommend getting a CD that has many themes so you are prepared for almost any request. These CD’s range in price from $5.00 to $40.00 You can also find templates for invitations, cards, and scrapbook pages, that are great for getting add-on sales. These digital backdrops are a must have for anyone that wants to start a photography studio that will be creative and competitive.
Props, Posers, and Furniture
When you start your photography studio you will not have a lot of props. However, as soon as your budget allows you absolutely must have props on hand and in good condition. The props you chose should range from cute, to modern, and always some vintage. The best place to get inexpensive props are rummages and thrift stores. For traditional posers you can make your own using materials from the hardware store and your local nurseries.
Square or rectangle blocks for posing ($50) – Using MDF, plywood, or other materials build yourself three or more blocks of various sizes and heights.
Chairs ($50) – Buy at least one white and one natural colored wood chairs for posing. Apply any remaining money to more chairs or to another category.
Angel wings ($50) – Buy feathered angel wings in baby and toddler sizes. Check Ebay or your local costume shop.
Flower petals ($25) – Red and white flower petals are a good start and can be found at craft or wedding supply shops.
Rubber ducky, washbin, and bubbles ($100) – My biggest request is for babies in the washbin. Again you can find these items as a set or individually on Ebay.
Fabric and fur ($100) – Chose fabrics with simple designs or just solid colors that do not have a sheen. Many people still request the traditional fur mat, but not many so I just have the fur in white and cream.
Miscellaneous props – That leaves just sixty dollars to round out our budget. Chose additional props that fit into your style or that are popular in your region.
Using the above products and ideas you will have all the necessary supplies and props to start your photography studio for one thousand dollars or less.
