Event photography can be…expensive. It’s a fact, and there is nothing wrong with it. But if you are on a limited budget but still want cute pictures for your child’s 5th birthday party, the pressure is on.
But don’t let social pressure get to you if professional photography services are not in the budget. Affordable photography is still achievable even for non-professionals. Many Kenyans are now ditching those expensive photography packages and embracing the DIY approach.
Image by Martin Kleinheinz from Pixabay
In your own simple celebration at home, whether it’s a birthday, that small wedding ceremony, or the baby’s dedication, you can actually capture authentic moments with the right tips.
After all, there’s something beautiful about photos taken by family and friends. They bring a personal touch that those studio-perfect shots sometimes miss.
Moreover, in this era of smartphones and social media, everyone has something to offer in photography. We’re constantly taking selfies, food pics, and random shots. Why not harness these skills for your event?
Image by GemmaRay23 from Pixabay
With the right tips and tricks (which we’ll dive into shortly), your event photography can look good without the professional price tag.
So, stick around as we explore these affordable event photography hacks for non-professionals to make your event memorable affordably.
6 Affordable Event Photography Tips
These simple hacks are budget-friendly but will still give you those Instagram-worthy pics that will have everyone double-tapping! Next time you have an event, consider the following:
1. Set Up a Photo Wall
Photo by Mikhail Nilov
This one is a game-changer for your event photography. A photo wall is simple, but it does wonders. All you need are some balloons, a foil curtain from Kamukunji, and simple, affordable decorations like a flag string pinned on a backdrop.
And what does this do? Well, first, it creates a dedicated spot where everyone knows pictures are happening. Kenyans love taking photos – they’ll line up by themselves! Plus, the backdrop makes even simple phone pictures look intentional and put-together.
To execute it, just choose the wall with the best lighting in your house, hang your decorations, and that’s it!
Make sure to announce to guests, and, place a small table nearby with props like sunglasses, funny hats, or signs. Soon enough, guests will be fighting for turns!
The beauty of this affordable photography tip is that guests become their own photographers, giving you more variety of shots without breaking the bank.
2. Learn About Your Phone Camera Settings
Photo by Mona Jain on Unsplash
Most of us use our phones for everything, but we’ve never bothered to explore all those camera settings. Now is the time. For real event photography that looks professional, you need to know what your phone can do.
You can start by checking if your Infinix or Tecno has portrait mode – it gives that blurry background effect that makes pro photos pop. Also, learn about HDR setting (it balances light and shadow), night mode (for evening events), and how to adjust exposure (brightness).
To execute this tip, take a few minutes each day before your event and play with these settings. Take test shots around your house.
Why is this affordable? Because you’re maximizing what you already own! No need to hire someone when your phone can do what you need for that day. Additionally, once you master these settings, you can use them for future events, birthdays, graduations, everything!
3. Hold a Best Photo Contest with Guests
Image by Mariakray from Pixabay
This may seem weird, but keep an open mind. Announce a photo contest before the event and right after your guests arrive. Tell everyone and let them know that the prize is a surprise.
How to make it work: Create a WhatsApp group specifically for the event or use an existing group. Ask everyone to share their best shots from the party. The excitement will have everyone becoming instant photographers! Moreover, people will try different angles and capture moments you might miss.
For the prize, keep it simple but meaningful—maybe a small cake, a bottle of wine, or even just bragging rights (Kenyans love to win!). This tip is genius for event photography because it allows you to capture dozens of perspectives and candid moments from different people.
Plus, it’s super affordable since you’re basically outsourcing your photography to willing volunteers! In addition, this creates engagement during the event – people will be showing each other their pics and creating memories within memories. By the end, you’ll have a gallery full of authentic moments.
4. Use Filters
Photo by Sadman Sakib on Unsplash
Filters can change the whole mood of your event photography. You know those Instagram influencers with feeds that look like they hired professional photographers? Sometime, it’s all in the filters tu.
The genius of using filters for affordable photography is that they create a consistent look across all your event photos, even when different people took them on different phones.
Moreover, filters can hide minor issues like slightly dark rooms or uneven lighting, which is perfect for non-professionals. You don’t need fancy equipment or skills – just tap and apply!
Find a filter that matches the vibe of your event – warm and cozy for family gatherings, bright and colorful for kids’ birthdays, or classic black and white for more formal occasions. You can even go the extra mile with apps or even Instagram’s built-in filters.
5. Create a Custom Hashtag
Image by Firmbee from Pixabay
Creating a hashtag for your event photography seems like a lot, but it could be what you need for your event.
Why is this effective? Because it automatically creates a digital album of your event that anyone can access. Furthermore, when people know their photos might be posted publicly, they put more effort into taking good ones! This trick works especially well with younger guests who are already social media savvy.
Think of something unique but easy to remember, like #JanesRuracio or #OumaGraduation2025. Announce it at the beginning of your event and write it somewhere visible (like on your photo wall from tip number one). Tell your guests to post event pics with your hashtag.
The best thing is that this tip costs exactly zero shillings. Additionally, it solves the problem of having to chase people for weeks asking them to send you the pictures they took. Instead, everything is collected in one place automatically.
For non-professionals planning simple events, this is like having your own photography assistant for free!
6. Photo Scavenger Hunt
Image by Olessya from Pixabay
Finally, consider a scavenger hunt. A photo scavenger hunt keeps your guests entertained and ensures you get varied, fun event photography coverage.
Create a list of photo challenges like “Take a pic with the birthday person,” “Capture shosho laughing,” “Get a photo of the mukimo before it’s all gone”, or “Take a group selfie with at least five people.” Make copies of this list and distribute them to guests or groups of guests when they arrive.
But there needs to be a little motivation. So, offer a small prize for the person or group that completes the most challenges, or have everyone vote on the best photos at the end. Additionally, create a simple way for people to submit their scavenger hunt photos.
Why is this affordable photography tip brilliant? Because it turns your event documentation into a game that everyone enjoys! Moreover, you’ll end up with a diverse collection of moments that tell the complete story of your event – not just the formal, posed shots. Plus, it keeps guests engaged throughout the party instead of scrolling through their phones out of boredom!
The whole thing costs nothing but gives results that even professionals might miss.
Wrap It Up: Your Path to Picture-Perfect Memories
Image by Lubov Lisitsa from Pixabay
And there you have it! With these twelve affordable tips, you’re now ready to capture those special moments without spending an arm and a leg. Remember, a memorable celebration isn’t about how much money you spend but about the genuine moments and connections you make.
By following these simple hacks, you’ll not only save some money but also create a more authentic visual story of your special day. So, next time you’re planning an event, don’t stress about professional photography quotes that make your eyes water. Just pull out this guide, trust yourself, and embrace the joy of affordable, DIY event photography!
