Photographic lighting
systems enable you to take better pictures by lighting up a subject completely and evenly, unlike flash light, which causes harsh shadows and glare. A good photographic light setup will include lights and a diffuser or umbrella to soften direct light from the bulb. Photographic lighting is used almost exclusively in an indoor studio setting, and is thus not appropriate for mobile photography. Photographic lighting also requires the use of high wattage bulbs in order to create enough light for studio photography. Although you can purchase lights and diffusers, homemade systems are cheaper and just as effective.
Instructions
1. Tape one end of a two-foot square cardboard box closed. Ensure that the flaps are securely fastened, using several strips of tape if necessary.
2. Place the cardboard box with its open end facing up. Cut a square hole in one of the sides using a knife, and leave two inches all around the edges of the hole to maintain the box's structural integrity.
3. Cut a two foot square piece of white fabric or muslin.
4. Fasten the square of fabric over the hole in the box using a hot glue gun. Start with the top edge, then the two sides and finally the bottom edge. Let the glue cool between edges and pull the fabric taut to ensure that no uneven lighting occurs.
5. Place the 500-watt table light inside of the box with the light facing toward the hole covered with fabric. Make sure the light is pointed directly at the fabric---not slightly up, down, left or right---to ensure even lighting is achieved.
6. Plug in the light and aim the box's hole toward the subject. You should have an even glow and light distribution emanating from the box.
7. Construct as many boxes with lights as desired and place them at regular distances in a semi-circle around the subject or studio to create even lighting and to eradicate any shadows.
Tags: even lighting, Photographic lighting