What Can I do With My Old Video Camera? DIY Tips And Recycling Ideas
INTRODUCTION
In recent years, everyone wants to become a New Gen photographer, and that's why you would have ended purchasing a professional camcorder. Am I right? 😉
But do you also have some old camcorder models and thinking, What can I do with my old video camera?
Well, this article is exclusively meant to clear your doubts on this topic. Below I've listed some methods for recycling camcorders. Moreover, I've tried and tested these different DIY options; hopefully, the ideas could win your heart.
With that said, let's dive into the main content.
The journey of a camera shouldn’t end up in a rubbish pile. Think twice before throwing it away, as the camera contains a few valuable materials, such as platinum, aluminum, and copper, that you can reuse.
WHAT CAN I DO WITH MY OLD VIDEO CAMERA?
The best way is to pass it on from one generation to the next. And as I just told you, there are some interesting options to give your video camera a new life. Just scroll down to explore different recycling options.
1. SELL YOUR OLD CAMERA
Selling your old video camera is the first option I would like to recommend as it will aid you with cash to purchase more photo gear. You could list your camera or old photographic equipment on the reselling websites or make a good deal bidding and selling them on the auction sites.
On the other hand, you could drop it off at a local consignment shop in the hopes that a hoarder or collector will purchase your camera. In my opinion, the social media platforms, website, and classified section of the newspapers are good places to advertise your device and equipment.
Some people still get afraid to purchase expensive electronic accessories online from strangers. That’s why I suggest offering a potential buyer to meet in person to check the camera before making a deal.
2. DONATE TO SCHOOLS
You can donate your once-loved camcorder or camera to the photography schools or film schools. A few art schools, community colleges, universities; that run photography workshop programs accept donated cameras and other photography equipment.
The students learn about the history of cameras and filmmaking in their film development classes. Just imagine how happy they would be to see such an old vintage video camera in their practical classes.
Some institute authorities also lend or give old cameras to the students; who don’t have the financial conditions to purchase their own device. Your once-loved cameras will find companions again.
3. DONATE TO CHARITIES
Donating your old electronic gears to someone for good causes is always commendable work. Some photography-related charitable organizations look for donated cameras to help people in need. You can donate your camera or gear to contribute a little bit to their social projects.
Here are some organizations; that accept used cameras:
1. Josephine Herrick Project
The organization organizes free photographic education programs for all. From children to senior people, people of all age groups can join their training programs to get a hands-on learning experience with such used cameras. They also get the opportunity to show their creativity in public exhibitions; arranged by the organization.
2. Film Photography Project
This US-based organization collected used home video cameras, film cameras, and miscellaneous camera-related accessories like lenses, camera bags, and so on, excluding darkroom enlargers. Then, they renovate the donated gear, if needed, and circulate the things to the schools, even to the individual filmmakers, who are in need through the FPP’s radio show and at their walking workshops.
3. Recycling for Charities
The organization will recycle your donated electronic devices; after that, they will send them to the charitable trust of your choice.
4. PhotoVoice
The PhotoVoice provides cameras to the socially excluded communities, who are discriminated against based on caste, religion, sexual orientation, migrant status, social and economic status. They also teach them to take pictures and videos from the grassroots level; plus, encourage them to document their issues of concern. Thus they promote positive social change over the UK and other countries by increasing awareness regarding social issues via photography and videography.
4. KEEP USING AS BACKUP
You can't expect electronic devices like camcorders and cameras to be perfect for all situations. Your latest high-end camera may fail to work at any time. So, try to have the old camera in your hands to save you in such situations.
5. FELL FREE TO REPURPOSE
When you capture travel moments on a boat, or take pictures during parasailing, paragliding, and flying in a wing-suit, I would recommend using the old camera for such extreme shooting.
Why would you take the risk of damaging the latest expensive camera when you already have something to repurpose freely. You can give it to your kids to engage them and encourage their creativity, as well.
6. USE IN DIY PROJECTS
If your old camera isn’t in working condition; you have already given up the hope of fixing it as the mechanics charged you a lot to do so; you could try these DIY hacks -
A. Place Old Cameras in a Wall Frame
The photography enthusiasts mount and frame their large collection of old cameras to create a stunning artistic 3D effect on the wall. You could try this unique interior decor option if you have multiple cameras.
B. Create a Souvenir of the Early Days
You can create a heart-warming atmosphere in your room by transforming the old camera into a photo holder and decorating it with the old photographs; which had been taken with this camera.
You can also make a lot more creative things with the old camera and its equipment, like vintage camera lamps, flower pots, flower vases, coffee mugs, etc. However, if any of the above-mentioned DIY ideas work for you, try to consider the best possibility of recycling your old device. If you decide to recycle your camera gear, try to discard its’ components like batteries properly; otherwise, they will be harmful to the environment.
CONCLUSION
If you’ve found an old vintage camera, don’t hurry up to put it in the drawer again. The early models , used 10 – 20 years ago may not seem worthy to you in any way, whereas your kids or someone; who just decided to learn videography will probably find it exciting. You never know; your old video camera may get entrusted to a great photographic artist.
