Blogging On a Budget

According to popular belief, blogging requires a lot of cash, self hosting and the ability to obtain freebies.  That's not true.  

All Past Midnight has some great ideas about how to obtain free products and, apart from a custom theme and a domain name, I haven't spent any money on Someplace Strange.  And I'm still not self hosted.  I don't think that's hindered me at all in my blogging journey.  (My laziness on the other hand ...!)  

Having talked about things to think about before setting up your blog, I wanted to talk about blogging when you don't have - or don't want - to spend much money.

Equipment

You probably already have an Internet connection, a laptop/computer and a phone.  Most phones have a good quality camera with lots of features.  Add to that a desire to make your voice heard, some enthusiasm and a thick skin and you have all you need.  There's no point buying a load of equipment when you start.  Many bloggers give up in the first year or so.  If you're still keen a few years later and it's going well, then invest in a DSLR and upgrade the PC if you have the money. 

Template and Platform

My domain name cost me a tenner whilst the custom theme I bought cost a little more.  I'm not technically minded, so even after watching and reading numerous HTML and CSS tutorials I was as clueless at the end as I was when I started.  But, although other people may have my theme, no one has my content and it won't look identical.  I've still managed to create something that's completely mine.  I love my beautiful space on the Internet and I'm thrilled that others love it too!  You may be more technically minded and may enjoy learning about HTML and CSS.  Have fun!  The blogging platform you use comes down to personal preference.  I'm using Blogger as it's free, does everything I need and is simple to use.   Other platforms are available.  Do some research and choose the best one for you.  

Products

I've never purchased anything just to blog about it.  I really do drink that much coffee and eat this much cake.  The only difference that having a blog has made is I take more photos of it!  There are lots of things you can write about without spending anything.  Use your ingenuity and resourcefulness to come up with ways of looking at products, services and life in a different way.  It'll make your blog more creative and unusual.  

The takeaway ...

Ultimately, it's up to you how much or little money you spend on your blog.  But the wonderful thing about blogging is that there are no rules.  You definitely don't need to spend money to have an excellent blog.  Don't get distracted or discouraged when you see posts on what people use to blog. These aren't necessities, just a personal preference or opinion. The most important thing is having a passion for what you're writing about, letting your personality shine though and making the best of the resources you have.  In other words, having fun!

So, what are you waiting for ...!

Sharing with all these great Linkys