Building and Using a Lightbox - Part 1

by Mike Ault

Very often we get questions about how to take great photos, so I thought I would share an older article from our blog. Some of you may have read it before, but it's such a great tip I felt it would be perfect to post again for anyone just getting started. Enjoy!

This article was originally contributed by Mike Ault and I think you will find it very useful.

You've crafted gorgeous wire jewelry and want pro photos for your site fast.

Amateur shots disappoint; pros use light boxes for controlled light.

DIY one cheaply with white milk jugs, cardboard, or 5 sheets of 20x30 foam board, marker, ruler, cutter, and two 500W work lights.

It features reflective white sides and a replaceable paper/fabric floor for portable, professional results.

Mike Ault's Building and Using a Lightbox - Part 1 - , General Education, Design, Tools, Selling, , White Lightbox photo

To begin, view the diagram to see how to mark your foam boards.

You will need 1 each for the top, bottom, sides and back.

Follow the measurements carefully, slight overcuts probably will not affect the result.

Make sure you use a sharp razor or Exacto knife to do the cutting and make sure you keep fingers, arms, legs and bodies out of the way.

The slots shown only have to be wide enough to accept the edge of the foam boards.

Too large and things will be shaky, too small and it will be tough getting them together.

Keep foam cut-outs for the top's light port and shooting port.

Insert them when not in use.

Save two narrow 1x6-inch side pieces for later.

Once pieces are cut, assemble carefully into a 30" wide x 20" deep x 20" tall hollow box.

Add lightweight white cotton fabric or frosted glass over light ports with Velcro to soften harsh work light.

Use an 8x10 picture frame glass (or pre-cut from hardware store) with 1x6-inch strips as a jewelry stage.

This adds depth to your photos.