Tips to an Affordable Lomography lifestyle

Posted on 13 Jul 2010 - by Katkat In: film photography tutorial

Tips to an Affordable Lomography lifestyle

Lomography hobby is an expensive one when compared to digital photography (with exception of dslr). But for me I enjoy taking pictures with my lomo cams better. What makes this hobby expensive are: films, processing of films, scanning it into cd, and buying the lomo cams. So before you take up this hobby, consider the expense of lomography. Anyway, to unburden some of that financial expense, here are some tips:

1. Research the camera before buying.

There are different types of film cameras but the most important to note is the film type it uses. Most popular and cheap to use is a camera with 35mm film formats. Cameras like Holga uses 120 or 135 format while the Instax cameras use polaroid film. With these different film formats, it will be more expensive to buy the film and have it processed.

2. Try the camera first.

If you have friends who are into lomography, ask them if you can try their lomo cameras first so that you’ll have a feel of it. Join a photography group and share experiences with them.

3. Buy the most basic camera.

Basic camera means without the bells and whistles. You don’t need a gold edition LC-A (SRP: 600USD) to have great pictures or a Dalek Supersampler (60USD) whose difference from the regular Supersampler (40USD) is just the facing of the camera. Moreover, camera accessories can be bought later when you have practiced and learn much of your basic camera.

4. Go bargain-hunting.

Ebay and Amazon sell cheaper lomo cameras than those found in Lomo stores. Google the camera you want and canvass for price. Another best place to look for old film cameras is in rummage sales. I have seen lots of film cameras in yard sales which I passed because I don’t want to be burden with too many cameras but they sell really cheap! Films are also cheaper in Ebay than those in drugstores and don’t be afraid of expired films because the result is better than non-expired.

5. Cheap film processing.

The trick to save on film processing is to process your films without prints. Collect all the rolls, process them and then scan them into cds. Processing films (35mm format) costs 95cents per roll in Target. CDs which can accommodate 5 rolls can sell for as low as 99cents in Walgreens. There is also the option of investing on a film scanner which can save you much if you’re a prolific photographer.

6. Take good care of your camera.

Toy cameras are not really durable. Most are made of plastic. So have a care when spinning that film spool or rewinding that crank because chances are these things may break with excessive force. In addition to, films should be stored in the freezer/refrigerator to maintain their integrity.

7. Travel with your lomo cam.

Maximize your lomo cam by travelling with them. It’s nice to capture your travel with creative shots from a lomo cam.