How to Build a Low Budget Home Studio

Treat the Walls

• Paint the walls of your studio to suit specific needs. For example, if you plan on using special effects in filming or photography, paint one wall of your studio neon green. This saves you the expense of buying an actual green screen that is often used in effects shoots. Paint another wall bright white for photography purposes because it can be used as a backdrop or can reflect light elsewhere in the room. Grey works well for photography, and you can hang drops as needed. A simple sheet provides a backdrop for photography that is easily changed and doesn't cost you a lot of money.

Furnishings

• An easel is a must if you plan on painting in the studio. Place it near any windows in the room so you get the maximum benefit of natural lighting. A stool or chair of equal height to the easel helps keep you comfortable during your work. Include a small desk for a laptop if you plan on writing or editing on the computer. A loveseat or a couch is useful during breaks or if you have visitors so everyone can sit and be comfortable in the space. Second-hand stores are useful for getting cheaper furniture that fits your needs.

Equipment

• Lighting is important in photography and film. Make your own lights by getting low-cost halogens from a hardware store and then placing light gels over them to create multiple colors. White poster board works as a bounce board that reflects or diffuses light as needed -- this is particularly useful for photography and videography. Include a tripod for a photography or film camera. If you want to record music, instruments, amplifiers and microphones are needed and can be purchased used to reduce costs. Some instruments, such as pianos, can also be rented. A laptop with editing software gives you a lot more artistic freedom in filming, photography and music editing. Visit college campuses and check out bulletin boards in the film or music buildings because you'll often find laptops with slightly older software for sale at reasonable prices.

Considerations

• You may need to pad the walls to record or play music without echo, depending on the natural acoustics of the room. Ensure the room's outlets can handle the power requirements for your equipment before hooking everything up to prevent the risk of overload or blowing a breaker. If you have a really low budget, focus on one item at a time and then gradually expand your artistic horizons as you get more supplies. Likewise, share your studio space with other like-minded people if they contribute to the funding for new furniture, equipment or supplies. Keep plenty of costumes, outfits and props in any nearby closest space for film or photography because you never know what you'll end up needing. Second-hand stores are a useful resource for these types of necessities.