Lighting Directions for a Lightbox

A light box isolates an item on a white background.

A lightbox is an enclosed area surrounded by white fabric used to photograph products. By shining lights through the fabric, the resulting image showcases the product poised in a perfectly white area. These are used often by catalog companies and can be built at home with a few simple materials. With certain light positioning, you can create a professional product image.

Things You'll Need

• Lightbox
• Studio flashes or household lamps
• Camera

Instructions

1. Place the product inside the lightbox and position it at the desired angle.

2. Place one light on the side of the lightbox and aim it to shine through the white fabric.

3. Place another light on the other side of the lightbox in a similar manner.

4. Place your camera near the product and zoom in, if necessary, to fill the frame with the item. Adjust the camera's settings to produce an acceptable exposure.

5. Adjust the position of the lights to increase or decrease brightness. Change the lighting dynamic of the image by turning off one light or placing it at an odd angle. Take several photos and select the one that fits best.

References

• Digital Photography School: How to Make an Inexpensive Light Tent
• Studio Lighting: Homemade Light Box for Product Photography