How to Make a Light Box for Photography

A good light box can be made cheaply. The light box or light tent is used to soften and direct your light sources. It also puts focus on details and highlights the object. You can use a reading lamp or work lamp.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cardboard box
• Box cutter
• Masking tape or glue stick
• Tissue paper or poster board
• Light or lamp

1. Choose a cardboard box. The size depends on how big the objects are that you want to shoot. Use the size shipping carton or other box that suits your needs. Lay the box on its side. Cut out at least two sides and the top with a box cutter. Don't cut to the edge of each side, but leave an inch or so of rim to each panel that you cut out. Save two of the flaps intact on the box. Use them to help control light. If you want to be able to place the light box over an object, cut out the side that is now the bottom.

2. Cover the cut out sides and the top with a light, thin material that light can bleed through. Some suggested materials are white tissue paper or poster board. Use masking tape or a glue stick to secure the material to the sides of the box.

3. Cover the back of your light box with the white material. Make a drape with the poster board or tissue paper that flows from the back to the front. It will be effective in giving a great drapery illusion.

4. Place your light. Adjust it along with the drapery. When the lighting and shadows are satisfactory, take a picture.

Tips & Warnings

• Rid the darkest side of any reflection. Place a piece of black poster board there and over the top.
• Raise an object with a book or brick. Cover the brick or book with a white towel or pillow case. Use it in a drapery fashion.
• Play with various colors of poster board or tissue paper to achieve different effects.