How Do You Create An Inexpensive Photography Lightbox?
Good jewelry and close-up photography requires good lighting. However, being able to light a piece properly to show the true color and beauty of it can be difficult. A light box is a great solution. It provides light diffusion and a uniform background against which to place your piece. They can be expensive though. There is a solution, costing as little as $2 (or free if you already have all the materials), using a cardboard box, poster board and some tissue paper. This light box can be used with any light source, and even outdoors. • Choose a box appropriate for the size of the objects you will photograph. You may find that you need to make boxes in various sizes. • Secure the bottom of the box with packing tape. Use more packing tape to secure the bottom flaps inside. This will keep them out of the way. • Lay the box on its side, with the opening facing you. • Mark lines about 1 inch (2.54 cm) inside each edge of the box on each side and on the top. A standard 12″ (30 cm) ruler makes
• Choose a box appropriate for the size of the objects you will photograph. You may find that you need to make boxes in various sizes. • Secure the bottom of the box with packing tape. Use more packing tape to secure the bottom flaps inside. This will keep them out of the way. • Lay the box on its side, with the opening facing you. • Mark lines about 1 inch (2.54 cm) inside each edge of the box on each side and on the top. A standard 12″ (30 cm) ruler makes the perfect straight edge and is the right width. • Using the box cutter, carefully cut along the lines you drew. You can use the ruler as a straight edge to guide your cut. It is not necessary to get the cuts absolutely straight. Notice that the flaps on the front of the box have been left on for now to add stability and make it easier to cut. You may find that taping the front flaps shut makes it easier to cut. • Cut the front flaps off with a box cutter. • Cut a section of tissue paper large enough to fit over each of the opening
