Cheap and Easy Flash/Lighting Tips for People, Cards, or Scrapbook Pages

Pin It Most of us have different cameras whether they are a dSLR, point and shoot, or even a cell phone.  We also have a wide range of photography knowledge, but most of us have something in common: we want to take better pictures as long as it isn't too hard or expensive. Right!?  Here are a few tips that use little to no money and can be used when taking pictures of your friends and family and even artwork such as cards or scrapbook pages. I'm not claiming the photos below are professional grade, but I had about 5 minutes of my daughter's patience to get examples to show you. (BTW, why is it that photographers' children don't like having their pictures taken?) 

Tip #1: Use a white plastic bag over your camera's flash to diffuse the light. Yes, you can buy a magnificent external flash, but this post is for the everyday Joe Jane.

No Flash

Using the Camera's Flash (YUCK!)

Using a white plastic bag over the camera's flash. Isn't she cute!?

Tip #2: Buy a white poster board at the Dollar Tree or craft store to use as a reflector. 

Outside in the shade without anything

The white board is held at her waist angled to reflect the light up towards her face. Can you tell she's getting a little silly at this point?

Remember, these tips can be used to help illuminate your artwork too. Although I prefer natural light, I will often use to plastic bag technique if I need to take a quick picture of a card or scrapbook layout at night. Stay tuned for more pictures and tips! Feel free to leave a comment or ask any questions!

Pin It