How to make a very cheap lightbox for macro photography.

[seedlingsjewelry]

When first getting started my photos were terrible. A friend pointed out to use the macro setting on my camera and to make a lightbox. She had made one out of pvc pipe but I wanted something right then! I found a bare bones discussion on a blog and then adapted it for my needs. I made this tutorial a couple of months ago, I hope it is helpful!

http://www.seedlingsjewelry.com/pdf/cardboard-lightbox.pdf

[Shaped By Hand]

I wanted to thank you so very much for this tutorial! I have the macro setting and use it most all the time, but the macro setting needs a lot of light and has zero tolerance for movement when there isn't enough light to absorb. The step by step instructions are easy to follow and the visual definitely helps. Thank you for sharing!

[IcedAdornments]

OMG thank you for such an awesome tutorial!! With cold weather moving in, my outdoor photography is no longer possible. I've tried the whole 'putting it in a sunny window' but the curtains in my best sunny location cast a pink glow (curtains are a deep red) which is impossible to edit out lol. I'm gunna give this tutorial a try tho. I have some nice white cardstock for the interior.. and I think my baking parchment paper will work for the 'windows'.

[seedlingsjewelry]

So glad it was helpful! I'm getting ready to make a new lightbox as my cardboard one has just about had enough -- I wasn't rough with it or anything but I think the box I started with had been re-used a couple times so it hasn't held up so well but that's my fault for being anxious to get a lightbox going.

I'm going to experiment with a clear plastic container and cut out the sides etc. with a sharp box cutter. I think that will give me more long-term stability along with a bit more light.

[BallyBecca]

My pictures were always dreadful, I have to give this one a go!!!!  Thanks so much for the great tutorial!

[Larissa]

Thank you for this!  We were going to save up for one, but they're pretty expensive.

[Inamorata]

I've been looking for something like this for ages! Thank you so much. My photos are shocking at the moment. Guess what I'll be getting my husband to do for me tonight?

[MakinTheBestOfIt]

A light box makes all the difference in the world!  I look back at my first photos and just cringe.  Oh well...they have improved since then thank God!

[JewelrybyNaLa]

Very nice, easy to understand tute, Sharon.

My husband made me a light box a couple of weeks ago, and I've already poked holes into the tissue paper on both the sides. 

I used a long piece of freezer paper for the inside, and it works well ...

[seedlingsjewelry]

Ya, I just happened to have vellum or tracing paper on hand which ended up working nicely to diffuse the light. A friend also suggested thin cotton material (white) like a sheet which would hold up well.

I still haven't remade my lightbox!! I've been slacking, a lot.

[DesignsbyJessie]

That is an awesome tutorial.. thank you so much for sharing it.

[CraftedRoots]

AWESOME tutorial! Very clear pictures and instructions, very detailed, and nicely organized!

[lisianblue]

that's a really good tutorial-
I wrote these a while ago -here's another option
re lights: http://handmadeartistsforum.com/page/21/
although, I also found a compact flouresent light at Home Depot that is a true white light - I think it was about $8.00 much cheaper than an Ott light.  If I remember correctly, it's called a Crafting light.  Having at least 2 lights for the box seems to work best for me.
and for the box -  - after getting so many holes in the tissue paper, I got some white lining material - not really a tutorial but I think you can get the idea. 

[dreamriverdesigns]

please post these at the haf blog.  It seems to work better if you post directly rather than me asking your permission and copying and pasting.


great article, many can benefit, great exposure for you also!!!

[PennyFarrow]

Thanks for sharing this it s interesting and simple and it looks like it would get consistent results:-)