Make your own lightbox

[Pikko]

I notice time and time again that people rely on their camera's flash for lighting. I never use a flash for my photos and rely on lighting from two clamp workshop lights on a light box. I used the following tutorial to make my own:

http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/2006/07/how-to-diy-10-macro-photo-studio.html

The one described sounded too big for me, so I cut it in half. I end up frustrated with the size of the box though, so  I need to get more lamps (I only have two) and maybe upgrade to a bigger box for better angles.

[Bento Business]

This was the method I used for my bento lightbox! It was great, but it did fall apart eventually.

[Pikko]

Yeah I have to redo mine. I bought some new foam boards, I just haven't been able to find the darned white masking tape.

[soulstruck]

I have so much trouble with lighting too... it's probably best to take our photos in the morning, but I'm always too busy and off to work. :T I will try out this lightbox idea!

Do you guys use reflectors?

[Pikko]

The lightbox mentioned above uses the white foamboard as a reflector of sorts. YOu point the lamps up to the top of the box and it bounces all around the lightbox. (I think.. lol)

[ILikeDragons]

I always wondered how people got such awesome photos (of anything-not just bento) and I think this might be the answer. I will be checking into making one of these, maybe this weekend. I only wish I had some decent bentos to take pictures of! Thanks for the link and the idea.

[ktycat]

It really makes me wanna build one  . That's true pics are wonderful with this lightbox !

[soulstruck]

I made a lightbox! It has improved my photos so much. Thanks for the suggestion!

[Bento Business]

There's also some more info on Bakerella's site about photography and food - http://bakerella.blogspot.com/2008/09/cupcakes-and-cameras.html. She uses a special light for night shots which seems to produce the same effect as the light box. I'd love one, but unfortunately I still don't even have my own camera. One step at a time, methinks...

Just thought I'd share!