Statesboro is the best little town I know of. Maybe that’s just me being a little biased, but this college town brings a ton of fresh personality to the map. But because of how small Statesboro is, there aren’t too many places you can shop for a wide variety of supplies. With the K-Mart recently closed down, all that remains is a Big Lots, Hobby Lobby and a Walmart Supercenter.
Inspired by those who have a passion for DIY and arts and crafts, here are some alternative items you can find at a Walmart nearest you that can be used to replace expensive photography studio equipment.
Cellophane
Whether it’s cellophane wrap or bags, these items can be used to replace pricier color gels for your lighting fixtures. Much like color gels, cellophane can add color and mood to your photoshoots, and they are wonderful items to practice with and transition to genuine color gels with. They are available in all different colors, and can be bought in-store and are available in all forms on Walmart’s website.
Balloons
Balloons are an affordable alternative option to creating a lightbox effect for your portrait photos, by transforming small light beams into bigger and softer light sources. When you inflate the balloon, stretch the bottom of it over a flashlight or other lighting source, and it will create soft shadows on your portrait model’s face. Balloons are available at all Walmart Supercenters.
Umbrellas
Who would’ve thought that umbrellas could be used for more than just keeping us safe from the rain? For this project, you can use an umbrella as the perfect base for a softbox. Step-by-step instructions on how to construct this project are easy to follow and you’ll be producing professional-level pictures in no time! Umbrellas are available in all sizes on Walmart’s website.
Foam Boards and Aluminum Foil
Foam boards and aluminum foil are effective alternatives to expensive studio reflectors. Much like reflectors used in studios, both sides can be utilized to bounce light when there are no other light sources around, and the flip side can be used to block out the light instead of reflecting it like the reverse side. Foam boards and aluminum foil are available in-store nationwide and online.
What Are You Waiting For?
Just using these tips can transform the quality of your photos, regardless of the camera you use or where you live. Do you have any tips about cool DIY-inspired equipment? If so, comment down below!
Moses Photography Tips 
Wow! Talk about a useful blog. I already use some of these tricks but the balloon one and a couple others will definately be added to my arsenal now. This article is for sure something i would normally click on and even share with friends. Also, i love how this page feels optimized for mobile view.
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This was very informative and a super interesting read. I enjoy photography but one thing that I always felt held me back in the medium is the cost of the equipment. These tips and tricks are great for anyone who wants to enjoy photography and cut back on the expense or for anyone just starting out and they’re not sure if they want to make a huge investment. yet.
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