BUDGET Photography Gear SHOOTOUT | ft. Alexis Cuarezma | Ep 16

As photographers, we often hear the age-old saying, "It's not the camera but the photographer that makes a great image." But have you ever wondered what happens when experienced photographers are given entry-level or outdated gear to work with? In this blog post, I want to take you on a journey where I went head-to-head with other photographers using inexpensive photography equipment that we wouldn't normally use. Join me as I share my experiences and the surprising results of the budget photography gear shootout.

Hi there! I'm Vanessa Joy. In this shootout, I had the pleasure of collaborating with Alexis, one of the very few photographers I trust to capture my photographs. But this time, we decided to challenge ourselves by shooting with more budget-friendly gear. While I used the Canon RP full-frame camera with a kit lens, Alexis opted for a vintage 50mm lens on an entry-level mirrorless camera, along with no professional strobes. We were excited to push the boundaries and see what we could create with limited resources.

Shooting with Stylized Lighting: To kick off the shootout, we started by shooting with stylized lighting. We had limited time with our model, so we wanted to create something dark, dramatic, and moody. I focused on utilizing available lighting sources, such as a reading lamp built into the bed, while Alexis used a pillow casing as a soft light source. Despite the limitations, we aimed to capture powerful and captivating images that showcased our creative visions.

Exploring Different Approaches: After experimenting with stylized lighting, we decided to switch gears and explore more natural and realistic looks. Alexis stuck with the theme of direct flash, which has been gaining popularity recently. She set her camera to aperture priority and allowed the camera to do its thing, demonstrating that program settings can also produce great results. With a confident model, she captured dynamic shots with a playful and trendy vibe.

Embracing Natural Light: For my second approach, I decided to embrace the beauty of natural light. I played with the warmth and coolness of different light sources in the room, using curtains to manipulate the lighting effects. By carefully controlling the balance between warm and cool tones, I aimed to create a unique and visually appealing atmosphere. The interplay of colors and the model's expressions added depth and intrigue to the final images.

Reflecting on the Results: As we concluded our shoots, it was time for the editing and printing phase. We eagerly reviewed our images, discussing what we liked, the challenges we faced, and marking our favorites. Despite the limitations of budget gear, we were pleasantly surprised by the quality and artistic potential we were able to achieve.

Final Thoughts: The budget photography gear shootout was a thrilling experience that pushed us to think outside the box and rely on our creativity and skills. It was a testament to the fact that even with limited resources, photographers can create compelling images that resonate with viewers. Ultimately, it reinforces the notion that the photographer's vision and talent play a significant role in the creation of stunning photographs.

Remember, photography is an art form where the gear is merely a tool. So, whether you have the latest high-end camera or an entry-level setup, don't be afraid to explore your creativity and capture the world through your unique lens.

I hope this blog post has inspired you to experiment and embrace the power of your creative vision, regardless of the equipment you have at hand. Stay passionate, keep shooting, and remember, great images are created by the photographer behind the camera.

Thank you for joining me on this journey, and until next time, keep capturing the beauty that surrounds you!