Five hilarious camera tricks for cheapskate videographers

We’ve seen, made and wrote about many cheap DIY projects. This time, Alex of I did a thing has come up with five hilarious, tongue-in-cheek “hacks” perfect for every cheapskate videographer or photographer. It doesn’t get cheaper than this, and all you need to do is raid your fridge. Or your neighbor’s home.

1. “BLT” camera slider

There are a few DIY methods to get buttery smooth slider shots. But have you tried using actual butter? Just put your camera on a stick of butter and slide it across the flat surface. Pro tip: if you don’t want to get the bottom of your camera all greasy, add a piece of bread between the butter and the camera. Clever, eh?

2. Rat camera angle

If you want to achieve the unnerving, anxiety-inducing low camera angle, all you need is a child. Or a very short friend. Have them grab the camera, you grab them by the feet and slide them across the floor. Should I say that my brother and I did this as kids? Too bad we didn’t have a camera back then.

3. The balaclava trick

For the next trick, all you need is a balaclava. But if you’re really cheap, I guess you can cut out eye holes in a black beanie or something like that. Be creative, DIY it!

Wait for wee hours, then put the balaclava on your head and go to a rich neighborhood and steal some gear. The alarm will probably go off and the police will come, which brings us to the next hack.

4. Beauty is in the eye of the beer-holder

If the previous trick got you on house arrest, you gotta do something to kill time. Shoot a video? Have a beer? Or even better – why not both? Make a creative shot of beer pour by placing the glass on the top of your lens. Just make sure not to do it when you’re already hammered, there’s another trick for that stage.

5. Beer goggles

Finally, if you’re wasted but still want to shoot something, you may want the viewer to see and feel the same way as you do. Easy-peasy. Just grab a magnifying glass and hold it in front of your lens for the dizzying effect.

And there you have it, five cheap, almost free DIY tricks. These will help you save money to buy more gear. Or more beer. Whatever you prefer.

[5 Camera Tricks for Cheapskates | I did a thing]