Photography doesn’t always require expensive equipment—sometimes, everyday household items can be used to create stunning and unique effects. With a little creativity, simple objects like plastic wrap, CDs, and even a glass of water can transform ordinary shots into extraordinary works of art.

One of the easiest ways to add a dreamy, ethereal effect to your photos is by using plastic wrap. By lightly wrapping it around the edges of your camera lens and leaving a slight opening in the center, you can create a soft, hazy vignette that adds a sense of mystery to your images. Similarly, smearing a small amount of petroleum jelly on a clear filter (instead of directly on the lens) can create a soft-focus, vintage-inspired look.

A CD or DVD can be used to introduce colorful light flares into your shots. By tilting the reflective side of the disc toward the light source and positioning it near your lens, you can capture stunning prismatic effects. This technique works especially well in low-light settings, producing vibrant, rainbow-like streaks that add a creative touch to portraits or abstract shots.

Using a simple drinking glass filled with water can also enhance your photography. Shooting through the glass can create interesting distortions, reflections, or magnifications of your subject. Additionally, placing a glass object in front of your lens while slightly shifting its position can generate artistic refractions, making everyday scenes appear surreal.

Another fun trick is utilizing a smartphone screen as a reflective surface. Holding a phone just below your camera lens at the right angle can produce a mirror effect, which works beautifully for portrait or street photography. This technique adds depth and symmetry, making images feel more dynamic and immersive.

Fairy lights or string lights can be used in various ways to create captivating bokeh effects. Placing them behind a subject can create a warm, glowing backdrop, while holding them close to the lens can introduce soft, out-of-focus light orbs that enhance the visual appeal of a photo. Experimenting with different distances and colors can produce unique lighting compositions.

A household strainer or lace fabric can be repurposed as a DIY light filter. By shining light through these textured materials onto your subject, you can cast intricate shadows that add drama and interest to the composition. This technique is particularly effective for fashion or conceptual photography, as it adds depth and a sense of storytelling to an image.

Even a plastic bag can serve as an effective diffuser. By placing a white or semi-transparent bag over an external light source or your camera’s flash, you can soften harsh lighting and achieve a more flattering illumination for portraits. This budget-friendly hack helps mimic the effect of professional softboxes, creating a more polished look without expensive gear.