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A DIY Photography Lightbox

A lightbox is a cube-shaped object that is used by photographers to photograph small objects. The idea behind a lightbox is that it is small enough to be transported if needed, and the material used will diffuse the light from the studio strobes blanketing the object in an even light. You can buy a lightbox or make one at home using materials you may have sitting in your basement.

Things You'll Need

Cardboard box
Pillow case
Duct or gaffer tape

Instructions

- 1
  Select a box to use as a frame for your lightbox. The box should be large enough that the object you are photographing will easily fit inside.
- 2
  Remove the flaps from the top of the box and cut large holes in three of the four sides.
- 3
  Place a sheet of white poster board inside the box and tape it to the top at opposite end from the opening. Allow the board to rest into place and tape the front edge of the board to bottom of the box. This creates a backdrop inside the lightbox.
- 4
  Locate white sheets or pillow cases that are no longer being used. Cut panels out of the sheets or pillows cases that are large enough to cover the holes you cut into the box.
- 5
  Position the fabric panels over the openings and secure them in place using duct or gaffers tape.
- 6
  Place the lightbox on a table or desk top. Place the item you are photographing inside the box. Position a floor or desk lamp with a directional head above the box and point the head so it is shining into the box. Turn the light on.
- 7
  Attach your camera to a tripod and set it up at the opening of the box, and you are ready to start taking pictures.

Photography