How to Explore Photography on a Budget

If you’re a trans person and struggle to stay afloat financially, you may be wondering how you can test the waters in the world of photography while limiting your

overhead costs. 

Before I begin, I have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is that photography does tend to be a high-barrier hobby. The good news is that it doesn’t necessarily need to be. In this article, I share some options you may want to utilize to see if photography is right for you without spending a fortune.

Tip #1- Rent a camera from your local photography shop

Doing a quick Google search for “rental cameras near me” or “camera shops (enter your city name)” may yield some good results. I have found that most cities will have camera shops that allow day-long or week-long rentals. Depending on the camera and lens you choose, prices can start at $30 for the day. 

Even if you can only afford to rent a camera for one day, it can be money well spent if you plan to spend the whole day taking photos and uploading them to a hard drive or the cloud just before returning the camera. Renting a camera for a day can give you some good information if photography is a hobby you want to keep trying. 

Tip #2- Take classes at your college or high school

If you are already a student, this tip is for you. Most high schools and colleges offer beginner photography classes. Also, most high schools and colleges require students to take at least one class in the arts. Finding a way to add a photography class to your school schedule can be a great way to learn from professional instructors while also meeting requirements toward graduation.

Tip #3- Buy Used 

This is the most expensive option out of what has already been said, but if you can spend some extra money, buying a used camera and lens is a good way to get the most out of your money. 

Buying Certified Used

I believe that just because you buy used, doesn’t mean you buy bad or defective. Sites like KEH.com offer a wide range of cameras at different price points with a return policy of 21 days. 

KEH offers a wide variety of new and used cameras, lenses, and equipment. All of their used camera equipment comes rated according to their grading system to show how new or used the equipment looks and operates. I have personally bought used from KEH, and my experience was great!

Facebook Marketplace

Buying off of Facebook marketplace may also be an option. Although this option may allow you to buy a camera for the lowest price, it is important to be safe when meeting up with a seller and also ensure you are getting a fair deal. 

When meeting up with someone who is selling their camera on Facebook marketplace, be sure to meet them in a public space and take a friend with you. I would also recommend asking to test the camera out before you buy it. You can let the seller know before you meet up that you would like to take a few shots with the camera before you buy it, so they know to bring the batteries charged for you. Doing research beforehand on the camera model you are buying will give you some good information on whether you are getting a fair deal. 

I hope this post was helpful. As always, feel free to email me at transphotographynetwork@gmail.com with any questions or comments. Join the Trans Photography Facebook Group by searching Trans Photography Network. I would love to hear any tips you may have to save money when beginning your photography journey!