Decorating Guides
Rooms Look Picture Perfect With Vintage Cameras
With their sculptural shapes and retro-cool look, antique cameras make for striking and unexpected displays
Even before digital cameras stormed the photography scene, old film cameras have always had an edgy, hip vibe. They're plentiful on the market, and you can often score great deals, so they can be an affordable way to spark your interiors with a collected display.
If you plan to put your vintage cameras into use, go through a reputable dealer — you don't want to take a chance with online auction sites or local garage sales. A dealer can help you determine a vintage camera's condition, find a model that uses film still available and offer tips on how to coax out the best possible shots. Many offer a warranty as well. Try KEH, Collectible Cameras, Adorama and E.P. Levine to start.
If, however, you're more interested in beauty than function — and if you don't care about value — feel free to save money on thrift-store or Craigslist finds. Stumped for how to display them? These ideas will get your creative juices pumping.
If you plan to put your vintage cameras into use, go through a reputable dealer — you don't want to take a chance with online auction sites or local garage sales. A dealer can help you determine a vintage camera's condition, find a model that uses film still available and offer tips on how to coax out the best possible shots. Many offer a warranty as well. Try KEH, Collectible Cameras, Adorama and E.P. Levine to start.
If, however, you're more interested in beauty than function — and if you don't care about value — feel free to save money on thrift-store or Craigslist finds. Stumped for how to display them? These ideas will get your creative juices pumping.
Like objects always have more impact when grouped together. Just like the trio of vases on this side table, the pair of cameras attracts much more attention in unison than either camera would on its own.
What an inspired approach to 3-D art! Frames surround a grid of cameras for a delightfully whimsical display.
Purists may shriek, but spray painting an old camera elevates it into the realm of sculpture.
Cameras, instead of paperbacks or bric-a-brac, dot these bookshelves for a lovely shadow box effect. This treatment is proof that you don't have to crowd shelves with objects — sometimes simplicity works best.
Wondering what to do with a blank mantel? A collection of cameras looks so much fresher than the expected vases or candles.
I love the way this peekaboo camera is slotted into a shelving unit full of other flotsam — you don't notice it right away, and that's the point. It's a sly surprise amid ordinary objects.
Amid a display of clocks and old books and photos, a pair of cameras adds a period-appropriate finishing touch.
More:
Get Inspired With Ideas for Vintage Style
How to Really Score at the Flea Market
More:
Get Inspired With Ideas for Vintage Style
How to Really Score at the Flea Market