Think about all the film rolls you might still have tucked away in drawers, the ones that remind you of a time when every click mattered.

This lamp captures that feeling.

By combining a vintage camera, wooden hands, and scattered rolls of Kodak film, you get more than just a lighting piece, you create a shrine to analog photography.

Every time it glows, it feels like you’re flipping through an old photo album, reliving the patience and magic of capturing light on film.

Materials Needed

• 1 vintage film camera (Canon, Nikon, or similar)
• 2 mannequin wooden hands (adjustable artist hands work well)
• 1 straw hat (or stylish hat of your choice)
• Lamp socket and bulb
• Lamp stand or rod for support
• Film rolls (real or decorative)
• Glass beads or stones for base décor
• Strong adhesive or epoxy
• Wooden or acrylic base plate

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Secure your base plate, wood or acrylic works best. Then cover it with glass beads or decorative stones to create a textured, photo-studio vibe.

Step 2: Position the mannequin hands and glue them firmly so they appear to be holding the camera. Let them dry before adding weight.

Step 3: Mount the camera between the hands. Use adhesive or small screws if needed to stabilize it.

Step 4: Attach a vertical rod or lamp stand behind the camera. Fit your lamp socket and thread the wiring safely through.

Step 5: Place a straw hat on top of the bulb and socket, turning it into a quirky yet stylish lampshade.

Step 6: Scatter a few old film rolls across the bead base for that authentic, nostalgic touch.

Step 7: Screw in the bulb, switch it on, and watch your photography-inspired lamp glow like a moment frozen in time.

Tips:

Use a warm LED bulb to keep the hat safe from heat.

If you’re gifting this to a photographer, tuck a little printed photo under the camera lens for a personal surprise.