Photo box

[rgham]

This isn't about putting a knife to wood, and i'm not sure in which section to put this. There have been good comments about the photos of my carvings. My camera knowledge is mostly limited to "point and shoot". I do try to compose a shot that is free of shadows and has full spectrum, diffused lighting.

I obtain my results by using a translucent plastic storage container; a translucent plastic sheet about the size of posterboard, taped to the inside of the box in a curved manner for the background, obtained at Hobby Lobby; and a small clear plastic cylinder standing on end to hold the subject off the bottom of the box. If you want a colored background, a little spray paint will work.

I have a shaded patio facing north, which is a good lighting studio. You want that full spectrum, diffused light with the photo subject facing the brightest light source, but no direct sunlight. You might have to move it around a bit to minimize shadows, bright spots, etc. if you have photo editing abilities, just crop the photo to eliminate what you don't want showing.
I can have my setup ready to go in 5 minutes. Cost me all of about $10.

[mpounders]

Is that what you used for the photos of "Bittersweet Hobo"? This is certainly in my price range!

[rgham]

Yes, it was. I think I'll stick with it. Sufficient lighting has always been a problem with my particular camera. This setup improved the clarity of my pix quite a bit, I think.

[kdispoto]

Great idea. I like the idea of the clear glass stand too.

[steve brown]

Roger, would you be interested in coming by the Renegade class to give a photo demo. Steve B.

[rgham]

Steve,
Sure, sounds like fun. Wanted to stop by and say hello, anyway. There's not a lot to what I'll do, but I'll come. Just let me know.

[idigjars]

Cool tip. Thank you for sharing it with us. Paul

[Northwest29]

Very easy approach to photographing one's work. Thanks for the tip Roger.

Ron

[Trebor56]

Here's a link which shows how to use it indoors.

Low cost / no cost Lightbox