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Bill Huber | profile | all galleries >> Light Box / Light Tent tree view | thumbnails | slideshow

Light Box / Light Tent



You may want to read thought the comments at the bottom of the page, some different ideas on lights and how to make it.

I always use a tripod when using the light tent, you have to have long exposures to get the light the way you want it. If you will notice that just about all of the shots were taken in less then 1 second.

If your camera can shoot in raw that is always the best way to go, you can adjust the White Balance much better with raw files.

Follow these instrutions to build a light box.
You will need the following items:

Hacksaw or fine cut wood saw.
File or some 80 or 100 grit sandpaper.
Screw Driver
A carpentars square or something like it to get things square.

3 - 1/2 x 5ft. CPVC pipe. $1.34 ea.
4 - 1/2 CPVC Tees, $.24 ea.
4 - 1/2 CPVC Street Elbows. $.24 ea.
4 - 1/2 CPVC Caps $.23 ea.
1 - Can CPVC Cement. $2.35
3 - Number 6 sheetmetal screws. $.04 ea.
1 - Twin bed sheet. $5.49
I have used all 1/2 inch CPVC pipe and fitting on the whole project. The sizes here will make a nice desktop Light Box, you can make it any size you want or need. Just remember you will need 2 pices the same size for the width and 2 of the same size for the depth. The 4 legs will all be the same. I did not use the cleaner on the pipe before I glued it, I just don't plan on running any water thought it so I see no need for it. The glue holds just fine without it.
Parts Needed		I have used all 1/2 inch CPVC pipe and fitting on the whole project. The sizes here will make a nice desktop Light Box, you can make it any size you want or need. Just remember you will need 2 pices the same size for the width and 2 of the same size for the depth. The 4 legs will all be the same. I did not use the cleaner on the pipe before I glued it, I just don't plan on running any water thought it so I see no need for it. The glue holds just fine without it.
Cut all pieces that you need. After you have cut all your pipe pieces you will need to clean the burrs from the ends of each pipe. The inside is not important but the outside should be clean and free of burrs. Set them on end and check that all the pieces are the same length. If needed sand or file them to the correct length.
Burrs		Cut all pieces that you need. After you have cut all your pipe pieces you will need to clean the burrs from the ends of each pipe. The inside is not important but the outside should be clean and free of burrs. Set them on end and check that all the pieces are the same length. If needed sand or file them to the correct length.
Putting the top frame together. Dry fit everything together before you glue. Lay all the pieces on a flat suffice and put all part together to make sure they fit. Then do one corner at a time glue the parts together. Make sure you square each part with the other as you glue it. The glue is not real fast so you do have time to get the part squared up with the others.
Top Frame		Putting the top frame together. Dry fit everything together before you glue. Lay all the pieces on a flat suffice and put all part together to make sure they fit. Then do one corner at a time glue the parts together. Make sure you square each part with the other as you glue it. The glue is not real fast so you do have time to get the part squared up with the others.
Glue the Caps on the legs. Install the Street Elbows on the legs but DO NOT GLUE. I have 2 sets of legs, one is 12in. and the others are 14in.
Legs		Glue the Caps on the legs.
Install the Street Elbows on the legs but DO NOT GLUE.
I have 2 sets of legs, one is 12in. and the others are 14in.
Lay top frame on a flat surface. Place the glue on the street elbow and glue it to the top frame. Make sure it is square to the top frame. I used a carpenter square for this. Let set for a minute or so and then finish the other 3 leg in the same manor.
leg to frame		Lay top frame on a flat surface. Place the glue on the street elbow and glue it to the top frame. Make sure it is square to the top frame. I used a carpenter square for this. Let set for a minute or so and then finish the other 3 leg in the same manor.
This is what it will look like when complete. You can use the frame like it sets or on end if you need more hight. I have 2 sets of legs, a 12 in. and the 14 in.
The Frame		This is what it will look like when complete. You can use the frame like it sets or on end if you need more hight. I have 2 sets of legs, a 12 in. and the 14 in.
I added 3 sheet-metal screws to the top rail. I use a paper punch to punch the holes in my backdrops to hang them on. The backdrops are just heavy paper that cost 84 cents each at the hobby store. I have blue, gold, silver, white backdrops.
Blue backdrop		I added 3 sheet-metal screws to the top rail. I use a paper punch to punch the holes in my backdrops to hang them on. The backdrops are just heavy paper that cost 84 cents each at the hobby store. I have blue, gold, silver, white backdrops.
These are the lights I use, they are very cheap, the 2 small ones cost $4.78 each and the 2 larger ones were $9.00 each. I have 75 Watt spots in the large lights and the small one are 20 Watt.
Cheap Lights from Lowes		These are the lights I use, they are very cheap, the 2 small ones cost $4.78 each and the 2 larger ones were $9.00 each. I have 75 Watt spots in the large lights and the small one are 20 Watt.
I am using 50 or 75 watt light bulbs. The ones I have right now are J3 Long Neck-58 Tungsten Halogen CAPSYLITE PAR30 Long Neck Reflector Lamp Medium Base 75Watt 120Volt Wide Flood Beam. I got them at Lowe's also.
The bulbs		I am using 50 or 75 watt light bulbs. The ones I have right now are J3 Long Neck-58 Tungsten Halogen CAPSYLITE PAR30 Long Neck Reflector Lamp Medium Base 75Watt 120Volt Wide Flood Beam.
I got them at Lowe's also.
I have been using these bulbs as of late. They are much much cooler and the light is very good. I still set a custom White Balance (WB) with my Expo/Disc I got these at Home Depot they are N:Vision and have a color temp. of 3500k.
Other bulbs		I have been using these bulbs as of late. They are much much cooler and the light is very good. I still set a custom White Balance (WB) with my Expo/Disc
I got these at Home Depot they are N:Vision and have a color temp. of 3500k.
You can also pull the sheet over the front and cut a hole just for the lens. I have at times use a light on top, I have a plan desk light that I use for that. Watch the heat of the lights, they do get hot and you don't want them to come in contact with the sheet.
The Box in Use		You can also pull the sheet over the front and cut a hole just for the lens. I have at times use a light on top, I have a plan desk light that I use for that.

Watch the heat of the lights, they do get hot and you don't want them to come in contact with the sheet.
Sample image, Taken in light box with a blue equipment pad as a backdrop.
Olympus C-700		Sample image, Taken in light box with a blue equipment pad as a backdrop.
Sample image, taken in the light box with a blue paper backdrop. Lights more to the front of the light tent.
P9237430-01a.jpg		Sample image, taken in the light box with a blue paper backdrop. Lights more to the front of the light tent.
P1300379a.jpg
P1300379a.jpg
P1300380.JPG
P1300380.JPG
Sample image, Using light box and one small light on the inside.
Glasses of color		Sample image, Using light box and one small light on the inside.
Sample, Taken with the light box.
Buttons Buttons Buttons		Sample, Taken with the light box.
Sample image, Taken in the light box with a silver backdrop.
Toys		Sample image, Taken in the light box with a silver backdrop.
Sample image, Taken with black form board on the bottom and one of the little lights in back with a red filter in front of it. I just used one small light on the left side of the boxe for the white light.
Glass cubes		Sample image, Taken with black form board on the bottom and one of the little lights in back with a red filter in front of it.
I just used one small light on the left side of the boxe for the white light.
Using a gray backdrop and the one light in front.
Coin		Using a gray backdrop and the one light in front.
Using a gray backdrop and two lights
Coin		Using a gray backdrop and two lights
PC039115.JPG
PC039115.JPG
Using a cloth for the backdrop and the small lights to give high-lites to the knife.
P9044734.JPG		Using a cloth for the backdrop and the small lights to give high-lites to the knife.
P2140308.JPG
P2140308.JPG
P4203585-01a.jpg
P4203585-01a.jpg
This was taken in the light box with no lights on the outside of it. The lights I use were the small one and had them shinning directly on the rock.
The rock		This was taken in the light box with no lights on the outside of it. The lights I use were the small one and had them shinning directly on the rock.
P3124407b.jpg
P3124407b.jpg
P1260319c.jpg
P1260319c.jpg
P1294151a2.jpg
P1294151a2.jpg
PA140269a2.jpg
PA140269a2.jpg

comment | share
Gary Nordvall 31-Jan-2013 05:08
Bill - for the top frame, why didn't you use 4 side out elbows instead of the tees? You could have used one elbow at each corner (which would connect 2 sides of the top frame and a leg) instead of using a tee, a connector, and a 90 degree elbow at each corner. Simpler construction, and you would only use 4 parts instead of 12. Or am I missing something?
Inkyfingers 14-Jan-2013 01:47
I love my new light box. Thanks so much for sharing all of your photo ideas too. I did the black sheet on an anniversary gift we got from the kids and the photo turned out perfect. Besides my fingerprints or lint. I'll redo it!
Jason Hoeve 05-Jan-2013 20:07
I have seen your light box on a different sights around the inter web. Great box, I am getting ready to build mine now, thanks for the great info and wonderful pictures.
Mary Castorena @charmanddarling 03-Jan-2013 04:01
I had been looking for a sturdy, "collapsible", easy to DIY and inexpensive light box... your great tutorial gave me exactly what I was looking for! Hubby was able to put it together in about 10 minutes and for just $4! Just need fabric or sheet and my poster board backdrops and I'm all set! Appreciate it! Shared on Twitter!
Pam Brake08-Feb-2012 18:38
Thank you for these clear instructions and example photos, and for leaving them here. I've referred many to them over the years!
Guest 11-Dec-2011 23:11
I re-purposed a hamper I was given a couple years ago. It was a dumb hamper, being made of pvc and mesh, but a couple hacksaw cuts and a bit of creativity with some sheets, a few poster boards and some small clamp lights it is now a glorious lightbox! I didn't glue the fittings so it breaks down and snugly fits in an old tripod case I had. In fact, the whole setup fits comfortably in two cases, one for the poles, fittings and clamps, and one for the rest, lights and all!
Julie Klapkowski 09-Oct-2011 13:03
Bill: I had decided to make a light tent using PVC but was not sure about the design. Decided to do one more internet search on construction ideas when I found your website. I have made it but am having a problem understanding the lighting. I found the lights at Lowes, but they are designed to take 40 watt bulbs. Won't the larger flood light bulbs burn up the fixtures? This part is confusing me. Thanks.

Julie
Julie Klapkowski 09-Oct-2011 13:02
Bill: I had decided to make a light tent using PVC but was not sure about the design. Decided to do one more internet search on construction ideas when I found your website. I have made it but am having a problem understanding the lighting. I found the lights at Lowes, but they are designed to take 40 watt bulbs. Won't the larger flood light bulbs burn up the fixtures? This part is confusing me. Thanks.

Julie
amber 01-Oct-2011 12:40
Hi Bill
Really nice work, do u have any idea about using a 4 x 4 ft light box / tent for newborns? how would it go? and what would be the lighting set up?
Steve 24-Sep-2011 07:13
Greetings,
Loved the light box design but was concerned about stability, so made a couple changes. For fittings I used 4 ½” Side Outlet 90 degree elbows (slip x slip x FIPT) (Lasco Fittings 414-005) to construct a top frame similar to your top frame, using the slip ends of the elbows, and keeping the threaded ends pointing the same way. I build a second frame of identical dimensions using 4 - ½” Side Outlet 90 degree elbows (slip x slip x slip) (Lasco Fittings 413-005), again with the unused ends all pointing the same way. To construct the legs, I used 4 - Male Adapter Fitting - 1/2 inch MPT x 1/2 inch Slip (Lasco 436-005) on one end of each leg with no fitting on the other end. This now makes a light box that is pretty rigid, but can be stored in very little space. To set it up, I screw the legs into the unused female threads in the elbows of the top frame. Then gently place them in the unused slip fittings of the bottom frame. As long as I don’t push too hard on the unglued slip fittings, I can disassemble the frame very easily. You could use silicone spray on the ends of the legs to make assembly and disassembly easier (or Teflon tape on the threaded ends). When not in use, it hangs on a peg board and is only a couple inches deep. This also allowed me to make more than one set of legs to make the box a different height. BTW, I got the fittings at my local ACE hardware, so they are not that uncommon.
Guest 19-Sep-2011 21:56
I have a question. I would like to build a light box for stained glass mosaic art that I do. These need good back lighting in order for the full experience to come thru on the photograph. What would be the best lighting option and background material for this type of back lighting?

This information is so helpful and I am working on my box.
Bill Huber26-Jun-2011 19:07
Aurore, it would help if I could see the picture.
You can add a light on top and this will kill shadows or you can had two layers of the sheet to defuse the light more.
effildIncitle 11-Jun-2011 12:31
I find myself coming to your blog more and more often to the point where my visits are almost daily now!
David 20-May-2011 19:53
What a clever idea! Thanks for posting this! I will surely build my own light tent to take pictures of my LEGO creations!
G.E. 30-Mar-2011 18:10
Hi Bill: A GREAT POST! I have a couple of questions: How could i adapt this to provide a camera mount for taking top down photos of a small object like high end collectible coins.Also have you done anything with LED lights? I am trying to put together a mobile table top studio for taking coin photos. I want everything to fit in a 5" briefcase. I canget this all to work but the lights, that is why i am thinking about LEDs lights but cannot sem to find high quality photographic LEDs lightsw > Any suggestions?

PSfor taking pictures like coiins what size box would you recommend. I was thinking of a 12x 12 inch but not sure about the the height>

Thanks,

G.E.

PS: if responses could be sent to my email that would be great!!
Barbara Heide14-Mar-2011 08:30
great! thanks! v
Musrara10-Feb-2011 09:36
some of the product's descreption arn't so clear.
can you add a video or a some more descreptive snapshots?
PiJoly09-Feb-2011 21:04
Tres invantif WOW!
Musrara24-Jan-2011 08:28
looking good !!
PHILIP BODEN 18-Nov-2010 18:22
THANKYOU THIS HAS GIVEN ME SOME GREAT IDEAS FOR MY PROJECT, WILL BE LOOKING AT THIS SITE AGAIN.
John M Haigh 31-Oct-2010 19:54
Cheers, Great simple answere for a great light tent. John Lagos Portugal.
Ken 04-Sep-2010 12:53
Great idea, thanks.
I have a suggestion to improve stability without glueing. Lose the feet and replace with Tee pieces. You still get nice flat squared off feet, but you can add a low cross brace between the short sides. This also allows you use small extensions to lengthen the legs, rather than keeping different sets of legs. Ken
Becky 01-Sep-2010 12:08
Thank you, thank you for the best ideas I have seen. My sister and I make jewelry for a hobby and have no money left for extra supplies. This is perfect, thank you again.
Becky
JT 28-Jul-2010 14:44
I made one of these last night and it was really simple, thanks to the great instructions here. The only problem that I had was the background paper. I used poster board and bought the largest sheet that the hobby store carried. It was still not large enough to cover the entire "floor" of the box. I am going to have to pick up some fabric and cut to size.
KF 14-Jul-2010 02:35
Thanks! This has given me inspiration to make one with things lying around the house. :)
Ashley Hockenberry12-Jun-2010 01:54
A+ Great idea!
Guest 07-Jun-2010 21:57
For missygoose, are you taking these pictures freehand or using a tripod? A tripod can be an inexpensive purchase but a very important one in order to get clear shots.
missygoose 15-May-2010 14:42
Hi Joanne, thanks for your info! I see you have an Etsy shop. I am opening one too and that's why I need to take the photos. I built the lightbox but had to use the tools at my disposal. I used three gooseneck desk lamps, 2 with 100-wt regular bulbs and one with a 40-wt. The problem is my camera, it's more of a tourist camera, not professional. I took pictures last night and a couple came out okay but for the most part blurry. I am going to use Photoshop Elements to try to get as much detail as I can out of them. I think the only sensible thing to do though is buy a professional camera. Today I am going to try to use different bulbs to see if I get a better result.
missygoose 15-May-2010 13:44
Hi Joanne, thanks for your info! I see you have an Etsy shop. I am opening one too and that's why I need to take the photos. I built the lightbox but had to use the tools at my disposal. I used three gooseneck desk lamps, 2 with 100-wt regular bulbs and one with a 40-wt. The problem is my camera, it's more of a tourist camera, not professional. I took pictures last night and a couple came out okay but for the most part blurry. I am going to use Photoshop Elements to try to get as much detail as I can out of them. I think the only sensible thing to do though is buy a professional camera. Today I am going to try to use different bulbs to see if I get a better result.
Joanne 14-May-2010 00:11
For missygoose: I'm not a photographer either but I found that my pictures turn out better when I use the Macros setting. That is the best thing for up-close shots. My camera also has a feature where you click halfway down once and that adjusts the focus so that it is not blurry, then you click down fully the second time and it takes the picture. I'm still learning, that's why I came to this site, to get info on a light box so that I can do even better. Take a look at your manual to see how to use the macros setting. Hope this helps you. Kind regards, Joanne www.lechapeau.etsy.com www.lechapeau.ca
missygoose 11-May-2010 19:42
Stupid question because I'm not a photographer at all, but wondering if someone could recommend a decent $150-200 camera to use with this? I've made the lightbox but my two cameras (Aiptek IS-DV 5mgp and an SVP XThinn 12mgp) don't seem to be doing the job well. Lots of blur and none of the close-up detail on small items. Thanks!
Diane 28-Apr-2010 15:41
My husband had it together in no time at all...thank you! :)
Rob L 23-Mar-2010 02:57
I've been trying to figure out a cheap way to take professional product photos, and then I found this article. I bought the parts today and will build the tent tonight. Thanks for the low-cost solution for a beginner! eBay here we come!
kajero13-Mar-2010 22:16
Thanks for sharing these instructions. The light tent is awesome. I took a photo of a collector plate to sell on eBay and the photo came out great The plate sold :-) I'm now trying all kinds of different things.
Randal Leau 07-Feb-2010 14:09
Thanks for your sharing
- save money, save storage place
- great ideal
bobby 01-Feb-2010 06:42
Great info ,Thank you
John 27-Jan-2010 21:57
Great ideas, I'm going with the materials & dimensions that you've listed!
tiptop 23-Jan-2010 02:10
THANK YOU. I got some great ideas to help me out!
S.U. 08-Jan-2010 23:29
Thanks so much for this tutorial. It's very helpful.
Janine 05-Jan-2010 14:35
Bill,
There used to be a link on your site that a friend made with dealing with exposures and the light box. Is this still available?
Shane 28-Dec-2009 18:37
Another cheap and super easy box is:
A translucent rubbermaid storage box.
Cut a hole in one side, add the lights and your done :)
you can skuff the inside with some 120 grit sandpaper to get more diffusion if needed.
Guest 25-Nov-2009 22:21
Thanks - simple and cheap - just my style
Shirley05-Nov-2009 21:38
Sooooo simple. It took me an hour - including finding the tools in our garage and tidying up. I have plans for some fishing wire for invisible hanging for my jewellery :) Thank you Bill X
Ishrath 19-Oct-2009 08:29
Truly helpful for an amateur like me.
www.wanderingmist.com
Hayden 17-Oct-2009 07:53
Thank you so much for this guide. I'm really interested in helping my girlfriend take better eBay photos and this is just the thing I need on my budget. Can't wait to get started and build one of these. I really hope my girlfriend likes it :-).

Greets from Adelaide, Australia.

Hayden
Leonel Da Silva 07-Oct-2009 15:28
Thanks so much BILL for the great idea.NOW i can take photos and post them.Will let you know how it goes.Regards from Leonel Da Silva Cape Town South Africa.
Dan 04-Sep-2009 21:02
Thanks, Bill !! I just completed my box. This really turned out nice.
Some of the stuff I had (Screws, tools and sheet) so the TOTAL cost came in under
$25.00. I got the lights at a garage sale for $1.00 each !!
Thanks a lot !! Dan
Jim 19-Aug-2009 02:11
Thank you Bill, your idea of a sheet as a diffuser and the poster board as an endless background are fantastic. I just built mine from scrap wood, glue, a sheet, a spring clip, the poster board from walgreens for 99 cents, two clip on light reflectors from lowes 6$ each (I made light stands from scrap wood as well) A couple of lightbulbs from around the house and I'm taking beautiful photographs. Thanks again and from all the posts I read you have earned a lot of karma with your generosity.
Amy 09-Aug-2009 00:39
I just have to take a minute to thank you for your generosity! It must have taken a lot of time & effort for you to do this, so I hope you know your information has gone to good use to many people all over the place! Many thanks from Dallas, Texas!!!
Don 01-Aug-2009 03:55
Thanks for the great idea. I have a large number of minerals to shoot, and with some crystal clusters lighting can be a problem. Your light box is just what I need
Guest 01-Jul-2009 09:25
Thank you very much for your creative idea.
Guest 28-Jun-2009 05:45
Thanks for this tutorial, i made a large scale box 6'x5'x4' to shoot portraits in and the results were wonderful! thanks again
kate 24-Jun-2009 03:57
great idea! thank you for sharing it. It's very flexible, too, since one can upsize or downsize as needed.
Guest 17-Jun-2009 02:11
Thank you so much!
John Mankos17-Jun-2009 02:07
Genius! This is great Bill...thanks for leaving this up here so I could find it. I was about to buy a lightbox and in my google search came across your tutorial here. Probably saved a few bucks over buying one...but better yet it was fun to build!
J. D. Morden 05-Jun-2009 19:22
This is an awesome tutorial. I’ve just been fiddling around with a light box derived from your tutorial; although I need an extra lamp to finish the basic box, even with just one light, test photos demonstrate that there’s great promise for excellent photos once I have the other lamp. THANK YOU.
Guest 30-Apr-2009 01:01
Just thought I would add a quick note, I love this setup, I use something almost identical but I found that depending on the item size that I need to photograph sometimes it helps to have a bigger or small light tent. So to over come this I didn't glue anything, instead I use a round of masking tape to tighten the fit. Now I can change the dimensions to fit the need, I have pipes cut for 1', 3' and 5' and then just mix and match as needed. I should also mention that I add a second frame to the bottom of the tent when working with the 5' sections just to keep it sturdy and prevent the legs from sliding out since I didn't use glue.
Dawn McKenzie-Wykes05-Apr-2009 09:34
Thank you Bill for your instructions and info.. Im hoping my husband will make a light tent for me soon. I used a friends in the weekend, and it looked similar to this..maybe she got the idea from you.. thank you again.
Guest 30-Mar-2009 19:22
Very nice! I've been sitting on the link to this for a while, finally had time to take a good look today and am impressed. I'll need one a little bigger, but easy to figure that out. Off to the hardware store for PVC and then to 2nd hand store for a white sheet and some fabrics for the tent and backdrops.
Guest 30-Mar-2009 11:32
Thanks for taking the time to make this tutorial! The flash tut was very nicely done- great job to whoever did that! And the lighting setup examples were very helpful. I think there is a great demand for examples of lighting for projects like this- the more examples (like the glass cubes w/red filter light) you can provide, the better! Thanks for creating this- will def add a link to my blog when time comes to post about this process!
Guest 29-Mar-2009 21:12
Great tutorial.... I was particularly interested in the different lighting set ups!!very helpful,,,,,,
Lindab
Guest 25-Mar-2009 09:56
Thank you so much for this idea. Works brilliantly. Just had to find a thinner sheet to stop the yellow tinge. Patricia U.K.
Char 24-Mar-2009 23:08
Just finished making the box. Not sure what kind of paper to use for a backdrop. Is it just posterboard? This doesn't seem to be long enough to create a back and bottom. Do you tape 2 pieces together? Would the seams show? Hope I'm not being too anal. Just want to try this out soon.
Thanks for great instructions!
char charweave@roadrunner.com
RJ 09-Mar-2009 12:37
Thank you Bill, it's amazing what kind of help you can find with a little research. People like you are greatly appreciated. I just started making jewelry and my husband sells hot rod car parts, this will help a lot with our sales. I can't wait to show him this, his photos suck right now... *_*
Erica D 02-Mar-2009 04:31
I was about to buy to a tent for about $50+. I think this is so easy to do. THANK YOU SO MUCH! I need to take picture of gift baskets I make to post on my webpage and this will work.
Steve Perrault 27-Feb-2009 06:16
I was getting ready to hit the buy button on a $500 light tent when I found this via a link on DPreview. Guess what I'll be building this weekend! I'll use the $450 I saved on another lens. Thanks, Bill!
Guest 19-Feb-2009 08:55
Roger

Great insructions, worked like a dream from cut down legs of an old gazebo! Havent quite got the lights right at the moment but working on it. THANKS
Steve 17-Feb-2009 01:36
Update on cost of materials from Lowes (purchased Jan 24, 2009)
Desk Lamps 2 x 11.97 = $23.94 (could not find the small lights)
Compact F Bulbs (3500 K) 100 watt equiv lums 2 x $4.48 = $8.96
1/2" x 10' Sch 40 PVC pipe 2 x $1.77 = $3.54 (I used thick wall PVC pipe)
1/2" Caps 4 x $0.29 = $1.16
1/2" Tees 4 x $0.25 = $1.00
1/2" Elbows 4 x $0.57 = $2.28
PVC cement 4 oz = $2.24 (did not use as the fittings were tight enough)
White sheet from Walmart $4.00
Poster paper from Walmart $0.50 each x 4 pieces = $2.00
Grand Total:$49.12
Set my White Balance to the temperature of the bulbs and got great photos! Very pleased with the project and outcome.
Lesley 14-Feb-2009 22:20
In the past I have paid for professional photographers to catalogue my pottery. Thank you Bill for sharing, my husband is not Mr. Fixit he did a fantastic job with your clear assembly instructions. Your table top studio is so inexpensive & easy to assemble, about $35.00CAN. I am just in the process of photographing new work to post on my web site. We have tried different light combinations, are still learning but pictures are great. We used professional photography background paper.
Karen 14-Feb-2009 08:33
These instructions look marvelous. Thank you for the fine work
kokkozik 04-Jan-2009 14:22
Thanks a lot for this instructions, especially for info about lights (bulbs)
vatorman31-Dec-2008 22:12
Your instructions came recommended – thank you. Seems I'l will have something to build/do this cold winter.
Robert Heer 20-Dec-2008 18:33
It is nice to have people like yourself that will take the time to offer step by step instructions without expecting anything for it except maybe a Thank You..

THANK YOU THANK YOU...
Rick MacHale 14-Dec-2008 22:12
I've been trying to figure out how to help my wife's custom weaving business by taking quality photographs of her work. Now I know where to start. Thanks alot. Rick
Guest 06-Dec-2008 18:22
I've just been inspired in a big way. I can't thank you enough Bill. The possibilities are are only limited by our imaginations. Your work has given me more of a sense of that, and it's exciting
Bill Huber12-Nov-2008 07:48
The only problem that Guest had was they needed to set the White Ballance on the camera.
Guest 11-Nov-2008 18:56
Hi Guest,

You are right to use no flash for your photography. It may be the light bulbs you are using that are giving the yellowish cast. I use plain old light bulbs - not CFLS or halogens or LEDs. They can't be "soft white" either. If that doesn't solve the problem, than try using some photo editing software. Picasa is one you can download from Google for free, and it works great. You can see my results here: www.sophisticatedladyjewelry.com

Another thought: you may need to adjust the exposure on your camera. Play with the "exposure" or "white balance" settings and see what happens.
Guest 27-Oct-2008 15:30
Seriously struggling here with this. Built one maybe 5-6 months ago, and we cannot seem to get the lighting right... all the pictures we take (without flash, right???) are YELLOW & people cannot see the true color of my husband's artwork (he's a glassblower).

Can someone e-mail me with some tips? THANKS!!!!! We're currently using a larger, taller lightbox, as he needed to be able to put taller pieces in it to photograph for customers. We have 11 lights now -- with 100 watt compact fluorescents in them, and they STILL look yellow & are not a true reflection of the piece's color.

What are we doing wrong?!??! ANY IDEAS?!?!?!? E-mail us at scott@infinityartglass.com

THANKS!


Guest 25-Sep-2008 00:29
This is my version of the light tent. All tubing is glued except the cross members. The idea to glue is to add strenth and stability. By not gluing the crossmembers,I can semi disassemble it for easier storage or transportation. Next, I'll fit and sew my material which will be tailored to fit over the frame. Gave it a trial run and I'll have to work on the lighting. But heh this has been a blast. Full stars to the originator and him sharing the idea with us http://www.pbase.com/tang00/inbox
monica memoli23-Sep-2008 08:38
Thank you soooooooooooo much!!!!!!!!!! I did it!
But someone else is enjoying it instead of me!
http://www.pbase.com/image/103535651
Dave from Philly 16-Sep-2008 19:36
This did the trick perfectly! I shoot a lot of items as an amateur photographer, and I was looking for a great and flexible solution. This was it! I did not permanently join the legs because I like being able to fold it up and put it away -- I also like the flexibility of changing the height of the parts, so I cut some extra lengths to fit. Thank you for such a great project!
Lee-Ann 13-Sep-2008 18:50
Thank you so much for this! My husband builds custom and handmade guitars, and we needed a way to photograph the guitars that 1) eliminates glare off of the metal parts and 2) eliminates background stuff. We have tried several different ways, but a slight modification to make this light tent big enough gave us the perfect solution!
Roger Foley 12-Sep-2008 18:22
Bill
Thanks very much for a useful, easy to build and functional Light Box. I just purchased all of the material at Lowes here in FL and the total came to $17.83.
I purchased an additional 5' length of CPVC and was able to make an additional 22" set of legs.
In your instructions you mention not to glue the legs but not why. It does become obvious for 2 reasons: 1) So you can easily change the light box height and 2) so you can easily remove the legs for storage when not in use.
Again my sincerest thanks.
Roger
Cuso 07-Sep-2008 04:05
This is freaking awesome!! I just bought all the PVC and IM in the gluing process..Got me some flat twin sheets at Walmart for $3 a piece. They come in various colors and beats getting some cloth by the yard...
Lino 05-Sep-2008 11:22
Thanks!!! We appreciate your help ....
Brett - Tallahassee, FL 13-Aug-2008 20:43
Some of you may prefer to use a pvc cutting tool instead of a saw and sandpaper.

They're only about $10 at Lowes and $13 at Home Depot.

I've found that they require very little effort and almost no clean up.
Jason 13-Aug-2008 02:22
I'm glad I googled "how to make a custom light cube" and came across your tutorial. I ran out the next day to build my Light box/light tent. Saved me a lot of money and easy to follow instructions. I opt out to use 3/4" PVC, made my height and depth 2" more in length. For the light issues, I bought (2) 8-1/2" silver can hoods w/ clips and (2) Eco Spiral Daylight 200watt bulbs (cool temp. of 6000k). Set my camera AWB to 6000k and VOILA!!! Glad to also see this article getting hits. Thanks Bill.
Manshow17-Jun-2008 18:52
I had a link to a little tutuorial I made below, but the link has changed. Here is the new one. Hope it helps someone!

http://www.ignitecast.com/p/BpHT5mWNVq/
Mike 15-Jun-2008 22:51
I need a box big enough to put a Rifle up to 40" in to photograph, down to a small part that is only 1 x 1 inch. is that possible?
amateur 10-Jun-2008 06:42
I have a Canon 40D with macro lens and a light tent with suitable lighting - when taking product shots (jewellery) do I have to darken the room and cover the eye-piece?
sammolama 23-May-2008 01:03
awesome! i was sitting here wondering if it was possible to make a successful lightbox to photograph my jewelry so i searched and this is the first tutorial i found. im going to keep looking around just to get an idea of variations i can do, but this is great and has helped a lot!!!
Douglas 05-May-2008 16:45
Bill,
Thanks for the plans on the light tent, actually got it off Kevin's site, so thanks to him too.
Longest put of the job was driving to Home depot
monica memoli08-Apr-2008 23:04
Love the idea! Perfect project. I'll try. Thanks a lot. big vote
mrkgoo 30-Mar-2008 23:51
Great idea!
I've had two attempts to make something like this, but without tools. My second go used PVC piping from a 3-tier laundry sorting hamper set, and wrapping tissue in place of the sheet. Works a treat!
Michael Harvey25-Mar-2008 13:12
Hi Bill,

Thanks for the instructions. I used the daylight cf lights from Home Depot and they worked perfectly. Every shot is right around 5500k even before I adjudt the white balance. http://www.pbase.com/mharvey55/macro
Jon Androwski14-Mar-2008 03:41
Thanks for sharing this project Bill,I've been doing most of my work outdoors,using the sunlight. It was a breeze to to put together,all I need is to get the paper,sheet, and lamps. Might I suggest to those out there, to try a thrift store for the lamps. I went to Home Depot(not Lowes yet),and they had nothing but 20-30 dollar lamps,and mostly Halogen type.

Jon
gewoodfo 25-Feb-2008 21:32
Hi Bill: Great idea!! Will probably doit next weekend using PVC as a test run. what material would you recommend using if you wanted something that was more professional looking? I am going to be taking this into clients home and taking photos of coins and jewelry>
Allen Pritchard 23-Feb-2008 16:14
I have just built my light box. Thanks for sharing the info on the WWW. If I could post a comment on the street elbow joints and a solution if they cannot be sourced in your country. In the UK I had trouble sourcing the Street Elbow Joints.
I purchased the T joints and CB4 overflow pipe joints. These are at 90 degree angles with both ends the same diameter. When I got home I thought oh no, this is not going to work as the legs cannot be set because of the joints not being a male and female fit.

To get around this problem, from the left over pipe saw 4 pieces of pipe at 1" and insert these into the end of the T joints that receives the leg strut, this leaves 1/2" sticking out of the end of the T joint allowing this to go into the bend in the CB4 overflow joint. Problem solved and works a treat.

Allen
Brekkon 10-Feb-2008 02:21
Thanks so much for your designs, Bill! Would it be possible to adapt this design and make a light tent to photograph fashion (on a dummy)? Basically extend the length and width? How could I go about making a backdrop big enough?
Brekkon - AUSTRALIA
Jen 06-Feb-2008 04:43
I recently purchased a Cameron Light Tent - I set it up using two 250W lights one on each side. I placed my object on the white background and the white is on the gray side - the camera is set at 5200K and I have tried different aperture with no success - any ideas? Your help is greatly appreciated.
Janine 04-Feb-2008 15:59
Thanks for your light box plans. I am a beginner at shooting stills and this has helped me tremendously! There is a website called Brand Envy that has amazing shots..i was wondering you if could take a look at it and let me know if its shot a special way ligthing, lens etc.? Thanks!!
Guest 28-Jan-2008 19:46
Thanks for your light box plans! It inspired me to cobble one together. Being thrifty I made mine from scrap material, some pine 1”x 2”.

I made front and rear frames, each 24” by 18”. Each half has a pivoting arm; they swing out to 90 degrees and have a series of holed drilled in them. The holes slip over a bolt on the top of the other frame. That way the depth of the box can be varied and when not in use the frames can be easily folded and stored.



Three large spring type paper clips are screwed into the top rail of the rear frame to hold the backdrops.

Thanks Again!
Roxanne 20-Jan-2008 22:37
God Bless You & Yours !!!! Thank you for sharing your blueprint & easy to follow tutorial (which is wonderful), on how to build a light box. You not only saved me a lot of money - but also, the stress from trying to figure out the best ways to photograph jewelry, etc. Good things come to those who share !!!!!
Bill Taylor10-Jan-2008 17:35
Thanks for all your help. You saved me a bunch of money. I'm going to make one..
David 09-Jan-2008 17:21
Thanks, I was about to buy a light box to take pitchers of the jewelry my wife makes to sell.
Thay sell for about $50
You saved me a lot of money!
mike tuomey 30-Dec-2007 17:16
ditto - great idea and thanks for sharing it. built mine this morning. used a mitre boz to do the tube cutting which helps keep them even. all cost less than US$12. next time i'm at the hardware i'm going to pick up some more tube to make up a set 20-24 inch legs, per your 2 sets of legs idea. best, mike
Jim 28-Dec-2007 16:24
This project was a great idea and the instructions were super. I build mine yesterday in less than an hour at a cost of $19.00 CDN. Thanks for sharing it!!!!!!
Guest 24-Dec-2007 00:37
I have just spent the last couple of days building my own using a clothes airer as a frame and also a bed sheet. I have just found your site, it is good for you to be speading the word. THe idea of using tubing is a good one. I have put mine together the lamps on the inside so the light comes from reflection so less is lost (you need to be careful with the heat of course but it has vents).
kellie 22-Dec-2007 23:41
This is wonderful. I made 2 for Christmas gifts: one for someone to use for small stills, much like the ones shown here, and one for my son who will use it as a stage for stop motion animation. The only change I made was to use copper end tabs - they look cool and have a bit more weight. Thanks for the detailed directions.
Steve Martin 12-Dec-2007 16:05
Sweet
Manshow05-Dec-2007 02:59
I built this project and it works great! I also made a short tutorial that may help others. I found your project on another website, so the credit is a bit off, but you are credited at the other site anyway. Here it is. Enjoy!

http://www.ignitecast.com/switchboard.seam?linktype=show_ignitable&ign_value=f9Dwt0c1zd0%3D&runmode=1.
Sherman Lee 28-Nov-2007 09:45
Thanks for the great idea!
Being lazy I wondered if there would be anything that could be used as a ready made frame.
I found Ikea's "Antonius" laundry bag stand for $6.99 was just a rectangular frame of right dimensions and proportions. Just lie it on its side, drape the bedsheet over it, put the background in and its ready to go. www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10103804
Jerry Buote 26-Nov-2007 15:12
Thanks a bunch.
I've passed this on to many people.
Just thought that I would add a note about the color temperature problem with lights. I just don't worry about it. My camera doesn't have a white balance compensation, but all my wife's crafts have a pure white portion somewhere. I just use Paint Shop Pro X's "color balance" control and click on a white point. 98% of the time my color is then spot on. I've also used a black, gray, white color sample panel from the Home Depot paint dept. I put this in the photo setup just out of where I will crop the picture. I use it with "color balance" in PSPx and then just crop it out afterwards. Paint Shop Pro (now up to v12)costs about $50 on line, at Corel.com.
My other photo packages all have a similar tool.
Pro's have used a "photo gray card" for years for this same reason. If you get white or gray, or black right-on the other colors follow.
tahoe 23-Nov-2007 19:38
Ditto to Christine's comment. This is one of the best setup I have seen online, and I have looked at a more than a few.
Carrie 22-Nov-2007 13:19
Beautiful job! I have trouble with lighting and only hope to recreate results as fine as yours. My favorite are the colored wine glasses. Good job! I always love to hear a success story of someone using the homemade stuff as opposed to the expensive alternative!
Christine Cox 21-Nov-2007 20:50
I was doing research on the Internet to buy a light tent when I stumbled across your site. Your instructions are so clear and the photos so good that I've changed my mind and am now going to make my own light tent like yours. Thank you for saving me over $300!
Diane 20-Nov-2007 17:35
Thank you so much for this tutorial! I recently joined a toy photography group on Flickr, and lighting has been my biggest hassle so far. I was going to go out and purchase a lightbox, but this is a much better (and more fun) solution, I think.
Jerry Sorensen 20-Nov-2007 06:43
I JUST WENT OUT AND GOT A LIGHT BOX FOR A $100.00 @ KITS CAMERA, THEN I GO ON THE INTERNET
AND COME ACROSS YOUR WEB PAGE. COLOR ME RED.
jezz 18-Nov-2007 20:16
If you live in the UK MAPLIN sell a great light tent for only £9.99
Jim D. 18-Nov-2007 19:10
Thank you so much. Being a 1/24 die-cast collector I think one of the most fun parts of the hobby is taking pictures of the collection. Your tutorial will be most helpfull I'm sure. I have to get back to my reading now. Thanks again.
Guest 16-Nov-2007 20:07
So generous of you to share this! Thanks! Jan
kelsey 12-Nov-2007 16:22
Thanks so much! I've been selling items online for years now and my one failing was poor picture quality! I just sent my hubby to the store to buy all the pieces to put one together today! Good thing I didn't spend 50 bux on the walmart version!
Tom 02-Nov-2007 19:00
Hi, Thanks for the great light box plans! Mine came out fine using your specifications. However, I have a few possible twists. Instead of punching holes & mounting screws for the background sweeps, I mounted a long strip of 1/2 inch sticky-back velcro (fuzzy side) along the full length of the upper-back horizontal PVC section ..not on top of the pipe, but on the vertical face of it. I then mounted two 1 & 1/2 inch velcro strips (tiny hooks) vertically, & about 12 inches apart to the top of each of my colored background sweeps. It costs a few dollars more, but it was quicker & offers a litte more flexibility as the sweeps can be nominally adjusted/tweaked. I also picked up 2 yards of sheer white garment liner fabric for $2.50 from the craft store, & hemmed it using heat & bond tape with a hot iron. Finally I picked up two quartz halogen 250 Watt work lamps from H.D. for $4 each (a regular item that is often out of stock.) I plan on buying a sheet of Roscoe color correction gel online for about $5 to balance the lights to 5,600 Kelvin, daytime color temperature. Lots of light means more depth of field, but careful about the heat. I plug everything into an ac strip with a breaker to quickly turn them off between uses. What fun! Thanks again!!
Cheryl 31-Oct-2007 23:12
Thanks for sharing this terrific design. I live in Mexico. And well, here, one needs to learn to improvise.
Steve 27-Oct-2007 04:49
Very informative and helpful. Yours is the first site I looked at for suggestions on a DYI light box and I feel no need to look further. I'm a low-level beginner at photography with a formal background in electronics and electromechanical maitenance and repair, and had the right idea but needed an experienced, no-nonsense confirmation as to the type of materials to use. Also, I've used the mini flourescents in other lighting applications but wasn't sure if they would be adequate for photo lighting. Thanks for sharing with us.
Guest 16-Oct-2007 22:40
Thanks you. This seems like a great alternative to spending a lot of cash.
Tim O'Donoghue23-Sep-2007 02:04
I used these plans as a starting point for a light tent. The results are good
[ http://timster.net/cameras ], but I think I need a stronger light
Alan 19-Sep-2007 00:25
Stumbled across your sight looking for a light box to buy. Found your detailed instructions, and since I work at a plumbing supply store decided to give it a try. Works really well. Purchased (2) 6500k light bulbs (daylight) from Lowes, and set my white balance of my Nikon D-80 to 6700k. Pictures look perfect. Better than the card board light box I built last night which is now in the trash. Thanks again!!!
Les 16-Sep-2007 22:12
Hi Bill,

Thank you very much for posting this on the web. I was just about to press the "buy" button on Ebay when I noticed your post on the "light tent". I built it within an hour and started taking pictures last night. I still need to get better lights though but some of the pictures had come out very nicely. On the other hand, the sharpness of the pictures left something to be desired. Most of the objects are sharp in the middle but not on the side.
Do I need a macro lens to get better result or am I doing something wrong? I have a D70 with an 18-70 lens and I'm definitely not an expert photographer.

Thanks for the help.

Les
Wade Philley 16-Sep-2007 14:34
This worked great. Thanks for the information. I did replace the three screws with two large binder clips. Those spingy things you clamp loose leaf documents.
Bill Huber 29-Aug-2007 21:57
The Pen and the coin trick......

The coin has some modeling clay behind it, not a lot just a little to keep it from moving.

The pen is really easy, if you look right at the tip of the pen you will see a little bit of blue. That blue is the paper the popped up when I pushed the wire though. There is a block of shipping foam under the paper with part of a paper clip in it and it is though the paper, the filler is out of the pen.
James 29-Aug-2007 05:52
Great project, I plan to build one tomorrow. I have a related question about how you stand up some of your items. How did you hold up the pen and the coins that you shot for P9237430-01a.jpg and PC039115.JPG for example?
Guest 13-Aug-2007 17:17
Thanks. Easy to build. Works purrfectly!
Ron, California
Guest 08-Aug-2007 14:38
I made my own with a few changes. You can find more info about it with pictures here:

http://www.danielgibbons.net/diy/?p=4
Sam 31-Jul-2007 01:08
Hi everyone,
I would need such a light box big enough to take pictures of bicycle wheels (28 inch diameter).
What dimensions do you recommend I build my light box?
My question basically is how much room do we need around the product inside the box?
Thanks!
Jestep 30-Jul-2007 13:27
For anyone getting a yellowish or orange hue to your photos, you probably need a better set of lights.

Look for high-wattage bulbs in the 6,000K color temperature range. Lower temperature bulbs (under 4,500K) are going to be towards the red end of the visible spectrum, while high temperature bulbs (over 7,500K) are going to appear more blue. Good aquarium and indoor gardening supply companies should have bulbs in the 6,000 - 7,000K spectrum which will be completely white and very similar to natural sunlight. Compact fluorescent bulbs in the 4,000 K range will be acceptable, but normal incandescent bulbs no matter how high of wattage will probably be too red to use without compensating for the extra red later on.
Kat 24-Jul-2007 00:18
The best explanation and example I've seen. Simple to understand and utilize. Thank you for sharing such valuable information.
Steve S 20-Jul-2007 21:15
GREAT ! Very helpful. Perfection !!!!!
Leah 17-Jul-2007 15:53
Jewelry "photo boxes" can cost a price of $700.00 if you shop online! This has saved me hundreds and the instructions are so detailed and simple! You have made it possible for me to sell my jewelry peices without going in debt just to take the photos! Thanks a million!
Billy Spencer 04-Jul-2007 05:36
Tried it, Love it. THANK YOU!!!!
Robin Smithf 30-Jun-2007 17:33
This is a terrific resource. Thank you so much.
Harriet Russell 17-Jun-2007 16:06
Thanks for the easy-to-make tent. Wonderful pictures. The exposure info is important if you have a manual camera. At the moment, I only have a point & shoot Kodak 4MP digital. I can opt for no flash, however. I hope mine come out half as well; I'll be shooting polymer clay jewelry.
Thanks to all the commenters, too, for good suggestions - especially on lighting. ...Harriet
Ana 08-Jun-2007 21:55
Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge and for taking the time to explain it so well.
Valrose 06-Jun-2007 17:21
This is so neat and handy. thanks
Raymond Schreeuwer (Rafi)18-May-2007 10:14
Excellent the way you laid it out..
Guest 15-May-2007 00:50
GREAT JOB. THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I WANTED TO SEE. WORKS GREAT. THANX JEFF
photo addicted 02-May-2007 15:17
Very good idea I've saved $400 by making this. Thank you very much.
Dan 30-Apr-2007 00:03
Thanks for taking the time to provide the detailed instructions on this. I made mine larger to suit my needs and it works great. I also wanted to let you know that I used 1/8 inch thick rolled styrofoam (packing material) to line the tent with and it works perfectly. It diffuses the light without blocking it out.
Juliet 21-Apr-2007 19:13
Naturally, I found this 20 minutes after I modified an old metal framed hamper (the kind you assemble at home and just holds a bag for laundry) for my frame. I found a cheap white tablecloth on sale for $3 at Walmart, and two pieces of corkboard (about $5 for a four-pack at walmart) that I tack inexpensive low pile velveteen (usually found in the leftover bin at the fabric store) for backdrops. My problem is lighting. I'm a jewelry maker and need to get close, detailed shots that can capture the full range of color in my products. If anyone has any advice, I'd appreciate it! (p.s. I built a box per your instructions, and it's really quite easy and inexpensive!)
Regina Budiardjo 14-Apr-2007 11:17
Hi, your instructions to make the tent is very clear and my husband recently built the frame for me. It's cool! Thanks for sharing your knowledge here.

I am using 3 pieces of jute string tied on the upper frame and mini clips to attach the paper. I use 18 Watt Cool Daylight Philips Genie lights (Spec shows 6500K) and white bemsilk material as the cover.

Regards,
Regina
Melb, Australia.
Guest 12-Apr-2007 16:14
6500k flourescent bulbs are available at Wal-Mart for about 3 bucks
Guest 07-Apr-2007 12:27
Great idea. Thanks.
Debbie 02-Apr-2007 01:00
Thank you for the great instructions for building your own light tent.
Excellant. Just what I needed.
Debbie
Burt 26-Mar-2007 15:15
Rhonda, for a larger backround look at camera shop or at adorama.com for 53" x 12 yd seemless backround paper, $20 - $35 roll, also available in 26" width
Guest 20-Mar-2007 23:30
Rhonda,

Try using some cheap wallpaper. Any plain white or softly muted colour will do. Have a look through end-of-sale and oddment bins, there's usually a reasonable selection - and a lot cheaper than artist's board. Just remember that if you are using incandescent lighting, it might be worth setting up your camera's 'white-balance' to suit the paper's colour reflectivity.

Have fun
Rhonda 20-Mar-2007 22:11
HELP PLEASE, ANYONE! This is wonderful and soooo easy to make! Used all PVC, so was a lot cheaper, plus some parts weren't available in CPVC at local hardware store. Thanks for the info. I am not a photography person, but need to take pics like this to submit on my website. One problem, though--my product is around 2 feet tall. I made the box much bigger, but can't find the poster board/Bristol board big enough to drape down the back and bottom. Any suggestions, please??? Will try a sheet for now, but not sure that will work--I need a seamless background. Thanks for any advice.
Hector from Mexico 19-Mar-2007 17:58
Wow. It's simple. It's easy, and most of all, it's cheap.. Very usefull!! I have to take some photos URGENT!!! and your explanation save my day! Thanks
Guest 15-Mar-2007 16:03
Thank you very much for a detailed explanation.

regards
Maha Anand
Bangalore-India
Mini Newbie 14-Mar-2007 02:30
Thank you! I needed this for my new miniature hobby! It turned out great, the only change I made was using fabric backdrops and covers with mini clamps instead of the screws. It's perfect, and so nice to be able to take it apart and store it. Thanks for the step by step instructions, and for having something affordable on the net!!
Guest 07-Mar-2007 03:10
Jon,
Look on ebay for "daylight" or "6400K" compact fluorescent spiral bulbs. Fixed my problems. Set your white balance to them and get a good shot. I bought 4 30W from discountbulbs on ebay. Good Luck!
Rob
Jon Jones 04-Mar-2007 19:55
Great Information on building a Light Box.
I'm just now getting into Photography.
I'm using the flourescent 100 watt bulbs, but see to have a yellowish background color.
Any suggestions on fixing this?
I'm gonna try the 100 spotlights and see if this helps..
Nurit Graziani-Niskala 04-Mar-2007 04:56
Thank you so much for great information. We had built the tent and now playing with the light and shadows, I’m trying to take a jewelry pictures, and I know that jewelry its hard pictures to take, but we making a progress and start to see great results. Thank you.
Nurit& Keith Niskala
Hutch 25-Feb-2007 20:10
Hats Off! So simple yet so good. Thank you for posting this.
Cheers, Hutch
Guest 25-Feb-2007 03:36
You'r[e a life saver. I have been struggling with an effective light tent to shoot my sterling silver jewelery pieces. I will post a link to this page on my website.
Ian 23-Feb-2007 17:11
Very helpful - you have saved me ££££££££££
I had the skill, but lacked the knowledge.
Ian,at expeditionfoods.com
Guest 21-Feb-2007 05:05
Great idea! Strange I would have never made the connection between PVC and photography. I built three "bins" almost exactly the same way but it never even dawned on me to use PVC for a light box / light tent. Thanks for putting the two together for me. Great idea!!!
Guest 21-Feb-2007 04:44
This is the best HOW to Make I have found on the Internet when it comes to Light Box / Light Tent. Others don't even come close to the detail or information that is provided here. Bill you are the best!
Nicole 19-Feb-2007 23:35
Thanks so much. You just saved me 500 dollars, and you gave me a customizable solution as well. You're the best!
Mike 19-Feb-2007 20:15
In answer to Guestin's question... I have used this set up with a combination of Canon flash and domestic lighting. You can see examples at www.mikeholley.blogspot.com.

One thing to remember about the Canon ST-2E transmitter is that the camera and the flash must be able see each other. For example, you couldn't use the Canon flash for backlighting...
Guestin 12-Feb-2007 12:35
Great idea - I will make one. But has any one worked with such an arrangement using flash lighting and the box coved by either white paper or sheet? Would appreciate comments. Two Canon flashguns available controlled by an ST-E2 transmitter.
Regards Myrddin Jones
Brian Jackson 08-Feb-2007 21:04
Home Depot now sells CF lites in 3 color temps: tungsten, fluorescent, daylite
Mike Murphy 01-Feb-2007 17:11
Thanks for all the info and help. I have found that fluorscent bulbs with the color rendition of 6500K are by far the best, this color is the closest to actual daylight you can get, this is also the color movie studios use when making movies. The bulbs are hard to find and I believe only a special order item, the bulb brand I use is TCP, and I get mine thru a company here in California called Regency lighting.
DeaconBlue 31-Jan-2007 15:01
I just made this and couldn't be happier. I took longer to get to the store and buy the parts than to cut and assemble. I left mine unglued so it's more transportable. Another bonus is that it forced me to learn my camera a little better in order to get correct white balance. Thanks for posting this, it's been a great help.
John Pennington 28-Jan-2007 16:08
Hello Bill, I made the light box, and have a Sony DSC W50 camera, which we like very much. However we are not getting the pictures that we want. Can you give us some advise on setting the camera for use in the light box. We would appreciate any information and help that you can give us. Our problem seems to be that the photos come out with a pinkish backgroung. Thank you, John
Gary 25-Jan-2007 18:32
This is the most logical and effecient plan for a light box that I have seen. Thanks for posting it.
Donald 24-Jan-2007 21:13
Thanks Bill, I just got the frame glued together & ready to go set it up & take some photos. Very easy to make! I added some threaded adapters to the legs to take down for storage & can always add longer legs later. They do make an elbow & T combination, the el for the PVC pipe with a female thread for the T part that would really make it simplier to assemble but I could not find all the parts in one place so ended up adding the threaded adapters to the legs. Thanks again for a great idea! Donald
Guest 21-Jan-2007 04:28
Merci beaucoup, doomo arigatoo, gracias, thanks, danke! The basic setup is just perfect as a foundation for all kinds of adaptations and modifications (e.g., longer dimensions would make a great arbor or trellis in the garden). And the full-spectrum fluorescent bulbs are great for reducing heat, conserving electricity, and longer life. Kudos.
Guest 18-Jan-2007 21:51
Excellent, easy to follow instructions. Great Results.
p.s. It looks like everybody is building one...I think I'm going buy stock in the PVC market ;)
Thanks!!
Rob 17-Jan-2007 02:06
Built it, works GREAT! But, I changed the dimensions a little (6" wider) and using GE 26W CF's 2700K, I need a little more light. I'm using 3 lamps - 2 sides and 1 overhead, they are rated at 1700 lumens, maybe if I shorten the horizontal dimension I can get the lamps closer to the object to be photographed and get a little more light. I love cheap, homemade things that work great! Thanks for the writeup, saved me a bit of $$ on a job to be completed next week!
Rob
P.S. - I used "Chip Clips" on shower curtain hooks to hold the paper about 4" below the top pipe (because I used 18" legs).
Guest 16-Jan-2007 18:28
Thank you very much for you excellent light tent. I had been searching the Internet and was set to pony up more than $250 for a "cheap setup." However, your excellent lightbox only cost me 1/5 of that, and $20 of that was for the n:Vision bulbs. I find that I don't even really need the sheet to diffuse the light in some circumstances with these lights. Who knew!!

Thanks again, and now if you can find me a similiar deal for my 4 kids college education... 8o)

Sincerely,
Jeff Carlson
Guest 16-Jan-2007 03:13
After reading this I built one for myself and it works great! Thank you for sharing!
Guest 15-Jan-2007 17:04
Excellent! Thanks for sharing.
Debby 14-Jan-2007 01:25
My husband built this for me and we bought the lights at Ikea today. Now I can't wait to try it all out. Thanks for the instructions.
ScottMa 13-Jan-2007 18:23
Thanks for the great information!
Best to ya!
Tina 12-Jan-2007 18:54
Bill this information is fantastic! I have not built my lightbox yet, however I did pick up all the necessary materials and plan to build it this weekend. Thank you so much for these instructions, they have saved me a ton of money!!!!!
Guest 06-Jan-2007 20:49
Thanks! These are great instructions. I just built my own... I had to change the parts and measurements as some of this stuff isn't so easy to get hold of in the UK.

See
http://andypiper.wordpress.com/2007/01/03/building-a-light-tent-part-1/
http://andypiper.wordpress.com/2007/01/06/building-a-light-tent-part-2-assembly/
Guest 04-Jan-2007 03:39
I haven't made the light box yet, but I found two very useful items at the local hardware store. The first was a 3 pack of daylight balanced compact flourescents for $10 -- a steal. And then I bought a few of those clamp on light holders (those silver cone like things). I also bought a few translucent plastic cutting board sheets to use a diffuser on the cones. But with the light box, won't need the extra diffusion. Thanks for the idea!
T Fan 03-Jan-2007 14:16
This is great ideas for an inexpensive project the deliver wonderful result.
A million thanks for sharing.
Mitch 02-Jan-2007 00:40
I follwed your simple directions and now have a great and CHEAP lightbox! Thanks for the hard work putting the page together,
Ed 01-Jan-2007 03:59
Thanks, this is great. I now have my project for next weekend.
Dave Beedon31-Dec-2006 07:57
Good documentation! Thanks for the effort.
Guest 29-Dec-2006 20:04
Thanks for taking the time to put such great instructions "out there" for others to use. We had the idea but you saved us bunches of time by giving us the tried and true method.
Guest 29-Dec-2006 10:06
Marvellous - i have been searching searching for a site like this for hours today. It is very kind of you to share the knowledge and make great photography less expensive. My sincere thanks to you.
swami
Hai Vu 20-Dec-2006 16:46
Thank you Bill. I have made my light tent per your excellent instruction. If I can do it, anyone can, too.
Guest 20-Dec-2006 01:17
Just what I need to take pictures of hand painted porcelain and stones my husband cuts.
The information is easy for anyone to understand and follow. Thanks so much.
Betty
monica memoli19-Dec-2006 01:04
Thanks a lot for sharing. I have a lot to learn. voted
Ron Bates 15-Dec-2006 16:45
Thanks for a great idea and for sharing. I love the ingenuity of contributor to theis site. Anyone have suggestions as to where one might go for techniques using light box/tents? You can e-mail me directly at ronlbates@cox.net.
A suggestion -- when cutting plastic pipe, it's always a challenge to get a straight cut. If you have miter box, this one be a good project to use it on. If not, I recommned wrapping tape around the pipe, adjusting as necessary until the ends meet on the other side. When it's square, use the edge of the tape as a guide for your saw. Also, I recommend attaching small paper clasps at the back uppermost pipe, rather than relying on screws and holes in the backdrop material. Thanks again!
shuk1in12x14-Dec-2006 20:45
Bill, this is an excellent tutorial. I love stuff like this when it's home made.
This is something to be proud of and I wish to thank you for posting.
Guest 12-Dec-2006 04:14
Have you considered the uses of an LED (Light emitting diode) which is very small, bright, is available in many colors, and the best part, it doesn't heat up like any lightbulb does! Perhaps find a way to power it using either a battery or a solar powered cell from your calculator? miss.mansfield
MichaelH 17-Nov-2006 14:19
Would it be more effective to use a sheerer material than a cotten bed sheet? The fabric shop has very sheer white cotton. I used some to make a few diffusers last year and they do a good job.

Great article! I will be building mine this weekend.
Michael
Guest 15-Nov-2006 20:06
It's hard to believe this tutorial has been around for so long - I am ecstatic to have found it, and very grateful that you shared.

I used slightly different materials and a slightly different setup, but I am happy with the result: http://ilovemyd70.blogspot.com/.

Thanks again - I'm going to enjoy this for a long time to come!
Jenny 09-Nov-2006 05:58
Wonderful idea & excellent demonstration! Thanks for sharing for the invention!

I found the CPVC pipe in beige color at RENO Depot in Canada. I made mine in small size (18"W x 14"D x 14"H) with a snap - one 10 foot pipe exact (only length available)! The tent size should be more than big enough for taking jewelry photos. I am so excited. I can't wait to test the light tent out. I did not glue the pipe pieces as they fit snugly and also they can be easily interchangeable with other sizes. In addition, it is easy for storage without gluing the pipes when space is an issue.

By the way, Orbit PVC tube cutter available at Home Depot ( around Can.$11 ) does great clean cutting job without the headache to debur the ends - NO deburring needed with this wonderful cutter! It works like a charm.
Guest 04-Nov-2006 22:07
This was so helpful. The format was very clear and easy to understand. Thank you!!
Guest 04-Nov-2006 14:51
Simply Outstanding!!!!!! Thanks, Canuck Bob
Guest 30-Oct-2006 03:16
This is a great article/demostration. I am just beginning to take stock photos, So i think this would be a great help.
Thanks for posting it.
Jeff M 24-Oct-2006 00:11
Great Directions! Can't believe how cheap and easy it was! Thanks
Guest 22-Oct-2006 23:56
Thanks for this project it has been very helpful.
GChism 21-Oct-2006 21:58
Thanks a heap. Project took less than 30 minutes to complete.
Guest 05-Oct-2006 23:17
Thank you for posting this info. I made one today and it came out great.
Chad 02-Oct-2006 07:27
I was just wondering, can this be used for displaying Jewellery as well? and to make the jewellery stand out good for say a website based??

Can anyone please help me out with this that would be great please feel free to e-mail me back at btopcomp@shaw.ca

Thanks ;)!!!!
Stan 20-Sep-2006 15:07
Thanks. It's simpe instruction with great examples of what you can get using this simple lightbox. Goind to build one. Thanks again!

http:\\stan-pustylnik.smugmug.com
Erick 19-Sep-2006 18:04

First of all, thanks for the instructions, I found this quite handy, however, *for those of you who are as clumsy as I am*, and who do not want to build the CPVC frame, there is another option:

Go to IKEA (or Baumax), and buy one of those "portable closets", they are very cheap (mine was like 20 dollars), and all you have to do is to put it together (it comes with instructions).

Here, have a look at mine:

www.icg.tugraz.at/Members/mendez/html/lightbox/
Guest 18-Sep-2006 01:05
I'm having trouble finding the types of lamps that Bill has used in this instructions page that can support a 75 Watt floodlight. Can anyone tell me how and where I can find these lamps? I have looked at Lowes, Home Depote, and many web sites, but they all seem to use a maximum of a 60watt bulb.
Guest 13-Sep-2006 01:30
Bill,
First I want to say that this light tent is a great and cheap idea. I just purchased my material for this project less the fabric which I will get later, but I have one question. The CPVC I baught at Home Depote was an off white color. Will this color material have an affect on the color of the light on my still life subject? Should my CVPC been white to begin with? They didn't seem to have the 1/2" CPVC in white.
Pat 06-Sep-2006 09:07
Very simple and very nice. Can';t wait for the local hardware store to open so I can build this today. Thank you for sharing this with us.
PAT
Ojo de Pajaro 06-Sep-2006 05:28
Great tip ! Thank's to you ... and to google.

I have just build the structure, tomorrow I will buy the bulbs and the fabric.

Question ... I probably will use it , in a normal hight table , and the box is still very below my horizon !!!

Has someone tried using the 2 front legs higher to gain angle ???

Have someone tried different kind of fabric for diffusion ??

Different bulbs ???

Bacdrops ??

Again thank's from Uruguay. ( spanish welcome )

I would like to receive a copy of the answers here in my email: ojodepajaro@gmail.com
Georgia Roessler04-Sep-2006 03:16
Hi Bill!

Thanks for this terrific tutorial. My husband is always asking me what I want for Christmas, for my birthday, etc. I e-mailed him this link...and voilà! On a rainy day, I love to set this thing up and play with it!
http://www.pbase.com/garoessler/image/53371946
Great job!
Guest 30-Aug-2006 08:44
Hi Bill,

Wonderful idea and so clear explanations. Thanks a lot!! The first tests I did with my DIY are really positive http://www.pbase.com/oisoard/studio)

Olivier
Jim 26-Aug-2006 06:24
Outstanding!
Thank You,
Jimmy B.
Webster NY
Mike D 21-Aug-2006 01:50
Bill,

Thanks so much for your detailed insight on this little project. I completed my light box and the total was less than $23.

Best of luck!

Mike D
Alex 15-Aug-2006 14:30
Thanks for the instructions. Like others here I went to Lowes, purchased the parts and had the frame assembled in less than an hour. I got lucky and purchased several sheets of poster board at Hobby Lobby for $0.50 (US) per sheet. So far I have shot on white, black, and gold. The light tent has opened up a whole new facet of photography for me. Also, my daughter is into claymation and she can use the light tent to improve the quality of her films.
Guest 13-Aug-2006 07:29
What a great idea! Thanks for sharing. I think I will try that sometime so I can do some macro photography and product shots. The pictures you took using this light box are very professional and superbly lit. Well done.
Guest 06-Aug-2006 02:31
I use clear bulbs and they work fine. Also try what is known as photo paper. It's more like a 6 thousands thick and will remove glare
Arteta 04-Aug-2006 04:31
I have a question, what kind of light bulb should i use to produce white light? The halogen bulb i have at home produce orange-yellow color. Thank you
Arteta 04-Aug-2006 04:19
I have a question, what kind of light bulb should i use to produce white light? The halogen bulb i have at home produce orange-yellow color. Thank you
Guest 02-Aug-2006 23:15
Such a simple idea!! How did I not think of this? hehe

Tomorrow after work I'm off to my local hardware store (B&Q in the UK)

Before long summer will have gone, and with it the butterflies I like to photograph, but now I can do some still life macro work!

Thanks mate ;-)
Marianne Venegoni19-Jul-2006 19:15
Hi, I think I've posted here before but I just had to tell you how much I have enjoyed using my Light Tent. Thank you for your instructions. I like it much better than the tent I bought.


Marianne
Bill Furner 16-Jul-2006 16:34
What a great site. So nice to find someone who likes to share his knowledge with others. Thank you for this very helpful information. I believe you could sell these instructions on ebay.
gjc41 15-Jul-2006 14:21
I was asking for help on a photography forum and someone kindly pointed me to this site. Your construction is simple, versatile,mobile and inexpensive - exactly what I was looking for. The straight forward instructions can even be followed by an inexperienced guy like me. Thanks for taking the time to share.
knrh@mail.com 08-Jul-2006 08:37
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ocvdsfn@mail.com 08-Jul-2006 08:36
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Jim 15-Jun-2006 20:27
Thanks for the info. A cheap way to enhance macro close up work.
Lengo 15-Jun-2006 04:48
I went out and got the stuff and built me this same box today. I spent just under $40 for eveything, and that includes many surfaces to put my subjects on. THIS BOX REALLY WORKS! YOU DON'T NEED TO SPEND $150 on a light tent!

THANKS AGAIN! You saved my wallet! Bill Huber, I LOVE YOU, MAN!!

Will post some pics on pbase soon.
Guest 14-Jun-2006 13:23
Hiya,

After reading your design document, I have now competed the installation of the light box. I'm from australia and went down to Bunnings to buy the supplies. It costs me $30 plus I was lucky enough for the saleman to cut me the pipes to size. So far have taken a few photos and am happy with the outcome. I am about to take some picutres for our menu board, thank you so much for sharing this design with everyone. This is going to be my new toy for a while.

Check out my photos at http://www.pbase.com/chong98/inbox
Lengo 14-Jun-2006 07:38
THANK YOU! You just saved me $100!!
Guest 25-May-2006 21:41
I think this is a great idea, but could I adapt it to take pictures of clothing on a manequin? The manequin stands 6 feet tall with base, how large would I need to make the light box/tent , and how would light it, how many lights? The photos wold be used for an ecommerce web site and the clothes would look best against a pure white background.
Zack 19-May-2006 12:51
Nice site!
My homepage | Please visit
Guest 11-May-2006 12:17
This looks great, one question. I am taking pictures of flat shinny wall clocks. If I make the light box deeper will it cut the glare? Thanks, Paula
Chris 01-May-2006 12:47
I knew this could be done, but your great plans and explanation really sped up the process of building the box. Thank you!
Daisy 25-Apr-2006 05:56
Appreciate you posting specs and pictures. I was thinking why can't I build one from PVC? Did a search and here I am. I'm also going to tackle a fold-up cube (laundry hamper, muslin or interfacing from fabric store, tacky glue)
narceron23-Apr-2006 05:31
Wow, great stuff.
I had read about how to make one on another "how to" site, but this was so much easier. I actually read this, got up, went the local hardware store, and built in right away.

Thanks so much, :)
Miguel 18-Apr-2006 23:17
WOW! I think I had this thing put together in under an hour! You basically go to the store, pick up the supplies, make your cuts and fit everything together. The only tools I needed were my tape measure, hacksaw and a file; instead of putting 3 screws on the back pipe I just substituted with regular tape (3 pieces).
JoeB 14-Apr-2006 01:11
I came across your site after there was a bit of discussion on lightboxes in the Corel Paint Shop Pro photography group I visit, so posted your link to the group. Since then others in the group have built your lightbox and, in general, the idea of lightbox photography seems to have broadened in the group. Your instructions, and particularly your posted examples of resultant photos, are an excellent presentation and encouragement to help people produce studio type results from an inexpensive setup in any room of their homes. Great stuff, and thanks for sharing!
Phil C. 09-Apr-2006 18:33
Nice idea. I did a riff on your light(s) setup, though, and improved them. I bought the same lights at Lowe's for ~ $10 each, then went to Home Depot and bought two 10.5" "clamp lamps." I unscrewed the reflectors and fitted them to the Lowe's lights (I never attached the included shades). To secure the new, bigger reflectors I pointed the light upward, fit the shade to the light, and ran a bead of black RTV silicone sealant around the seam where the shade meets the lamp base on the inside. I let this dry for 24 hours, then ran a second bead around the outside, where the body of the lamp meets the reflector. There was a black circular trim piece on the lamp that I pressed up against the shade and into the caulk, then wiped the excess caulk from the joint and let it sit another 24 hours. Instead of regular light bulbs I got two of the "100 watt equivalent" (26 watt actual) coiled flourescent bulbs that are daylight temperature (5000 degrees K). The lamps are bright and work well, and are classy-looking to boot.
Danny 08-Apr-2006 18:51
Good stuff. I'm planning to build mine today or tomorrow, but I have a question first:

Has anyone tried making the longer sides even longer, and mounting a roll of 26" paper on the PVC pipe? Obviously, you wouldn't glue the joints so it would be removable, but it seems like it'd be an easy all in one system.
Danny 08-Apr-2006 13:52
Good stuff. I'm planning to build mine today or tomorrow, but I have a question first:

Has anyone tried making the longer sides even longer, and mounting a roll of 26" paper on the PVC pipe? Obviously, you wouldn't glue the joints so it would be removable, but it seems like it'd be an easy all in one system.
Guest 07-Apr-2006 00:42
Thanks, I bye all the kit and make it in fue minute, i use a metal tube cutter.
Brian Hancock09-Jan-2006 02:58
Thanks for the great info... i went to lowes today and put it together in very short time. works like a champ!
Don Nanneman 06-Jan-2006 19:35
I an excited to put one of these together and try it out. I anticipate some projects that will require rathre harsh side lighting to bring out details of etching on small areas of image. Any suggestions?
Perhaps trial and error with one of the LED pencil beams?

Thank You

Don Nanneman
Alex Tsung01-Jan-2006 08:39
Thank you very much for sharing this great work. The detailed instructions helped a lot on my light tent :-)
Rick19-Dec-2005 07:26
This is so great. Thanks alot.
Arved 11-Dec-2005 18:10
CPVC vs. PVC: CPVC is Chlorinated, used for hot water, and has a slight yellow cast to it. PVC is fine for this project, and a little bit cheaper.
pete 05-Dec-2005 15:26
i just found your tutorial a couple of days ago, and over the weekend i made my own lightbox. Thanks for the instructions, the lightbox works great!

pete 05-Dec-2005 15:20
i just found your tutorial a couple of days ago, and over the weekend i made my own lightbox. Thanks for the instructions, the lightbox works great!

Kevin 22-Nov-2005 21:07
I went to home depot today to buy this... they had the PVC (not CPVC, whatever the difference is?) but they did not have the T or 90 degree connectors. They had them as "access boxes" which kind of opened to allow for access to wiring... and they were like $2.50 CAD each.

Where can I buy this, just simple connectors???
Dale A. 15-Nov-2005 02:15
WOW! Thank you so much for posting these instructions. I can't believe how well it works not to mention the money that it has saved me. I've not glued it together because it fits extremely tight as it is. This way I can take the legs off when it's not in use and store it in less space. Again, thanks for for posting the photos and instructions.
Kelly 07-Nov-2005 13:19
Thank you so much for these directions! The lightbox is fantastic for photographing my reborns.

GUEST 02-Nov-2005 16:35
Thanks to you and google!
Guest 08-Oct-2005 19:41
On my way out the door to buy the stuff needed. I'm so excited! I can't wait to start playing with lighting and back grounds.

Guest 08-Oct-2005 19:39
On my way out the door to buy the stuff needed. I'm so excited! I can't wait to start playing with lighting and back grounds.

Vestlp 25-Sep-2005 16:03
Thank you for this simple but very effective light box plan. You save me a lot of work and money I would have spent for what I had in mind.
Zoltan 21-Sep-2005 12:55
This is such valuable advice. I have been searching for information on light boxes for home use for quite a long time. This stuff is fascinating!
Alex 04-Sep-2005 21:53
This thank you has been a long time coming. I used your plans to build a similar light box for the larger items I take pictures of. I already had most of the items laying in my garage! I follow a similar process as Chris (second poster) does. I use 500W Halogens on right, left and top and shoot with a Cannon Powershot digital. I find that camera set for No Flash, Tungsten Light, +1/3 exposure typicaly works great for me and I then use Photoshop to clean up. Samples of pictures taken with my lightbox can be found at my showroom at http://www.InetRC.com/AYK/ - Again - THANK YOU for providing a nicely laid out guide to building!
Super Friend 16-Jul-2005 00:52
Hi! I just wanted to thank you for spending the time to explain to all of us how to make a light box. My clothing looks so much more professional with my new light box that I have made! Super pictures!
Chris 24-Jun-2005 18:52
Hi all,

I loosely followed these directions and have had GREAT results from this page as a guideline. I am VERY pleased with the outcome - and have some answers for readers who asked questions below:

1) Lamp fixtures used - I picked up a couple of lamps just like the ones Bill Huber used in his instructions, from Target. They were on sale for $4.99 each - they are grey in color and look just like his black lamps below. I also use a halogen desk lamp that reaches over to shine on the top of the light box, this helps to even out lighting on the top of the object being photographed.

2) Light bulbs I used - I picked up a couple of 60 watt tungsten bulbs, the same kind you'd pop into any regular lamp with a lampshade. You can use literally ANY bulbs you want - spot, flood, whatever. Just make sure you set your auto white balance properly, and your results should be pretty good.

3) Tripod - I use a simple $11 tripod that I picked up from Best Buy. It is small, only about 5" high, and fits in your back pocket. This allows me to actually put the camera inside the light box to get closer to smaller objects. Works like a charm.

4) Post-processing - I put all my pictures through Photoshop to help balance out brightness and contrast. Also works like a charm.

5) My camera is nothing expensive - Canon S400. I use macro mode and the manual mode to adjust exposure levels (bump it all the way up to 1+ or 2+). Flash is turned off. Even though the camera complains of "camera shake" as long as I use the tripod, everything turns out fine.

If anyone has any questions or needs guidance, drop me a line.. chris_lym at hotmail.com. A BIG THANKS to Bill Huber for sharing his original plans!!
Aaron 26-May-2005 06:56
Bill,

Thanks much for this idea. Until now, I've never been able to take catalog-quality photos of my watches, but now I can. Thanks again,

Aaron
Jet Liera15-May-2005 15:21
Bill,
This invention has been a hit since the first days of photography; It was one of my favorite toys during the 80's; and although, it's true its use and presence gets lost from time to time, it is also a recurring fact, that there's always someone like yourself that rescues and takes loving care for reviewing and adapting it with new materials to the present, letting people take notice and making it available to everyone, as well ...

On this special occasion its turn is to, an all times favorite as the light box, making it available and so easy to build, by your brief and down-to-earth instructions...

It takes love and unselfish discipline..
.Thanks buddy...

Kind Regards
Stuart Peterson05-Apr-2005 16:43
Built this in about 45 minutes, last night. $8 for parts beats $50+++ plus s&h any day of the week!
Ronald Johnson29-Mar-2005 21:38
Great idea...simple yet highly functional. I'm going to build one. Thanks! Nice photos in your galleries.
george 14-Feb-2005 20:21
Thanks for the great advice. I will definately rig something up similar to this. Just goes to show that it need not cost mega-bucks to create fantastic photo's.
Devilgorgor02-Feb-2005 22:38
WOW, great idea! thanks for sharing
Gayle P. Clement17-Jan-2005 14:10
Nice job, Bill. Thanks for sharing.
laine8216-Jan-2005 21:21
Thanks for sharing, Bill.
Audrey Mottishaw 08-Jan-2005 17:48
I was just clearing out my "Favorites" and clicked on your light box. I can understand how useful this could be. The instructions and photography of each step are superb - so clear.

I belong to a Photography Society in Worksop in the UK and sometimes I could do with something like your light box, for our "special subjects" in tabletop photography.

I shall have to see if my husband will have a shot at making one for me.:)

Thanks for sharing.
Gary Holtum 18-Dec-2004 21:41
Sure beats those manufactured light cubes for $50 to $150!
Thanks for posting the idea.
This inspired me to build my own.
Cheryl Hawkins15-Nov-2004 22:37
Thank you so much for posting this information. It is very helpful, and I'm going to go out and get the materials right now!!
Federico 05-Nov-2004 13:31
WOW man... this was JUST what I was needing.

GREAT explanation!

cheers from Argentina!

http://fotoblog.fbarbagallo.com.ar
Choco16-Aug-2004 00:38
Super instructions. Very helpful. Thanks for sharing,

Warm Regards,
Lou
http://www.pbase.com/choco1/canon_mark_ii
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mike 16-Apr-2004 22:25
Bill, Thanks for posting this project. I've been wanting to set somthing up like this but have not taken the time to do it. I'm going to make one of your light boxes, it looks like it does a great job. I like working with PVC so this will be a fun project.

Thanks for sharing!!

Mike
Guest 19-Mar-2004 13:36
HOLY WOW! You are a genius. I can't wait to set mine up. How kind of you to share this with us.
Dami 06-Mar-2004 20:13
Wow, thanks for the inspiration. Just finished building one of my own, though I'm not glueing all the pieces together so I can store it more easily. Also cut some different length legs as you did. Again, thanks for the idea.
Richard in mo 06-Mar-2004 02:31
Nicely done. I built one according to your plans and really like the results. I use fabric for my backgrounds which lends a slightly different look. It works really well!

-Richard
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