Cove box

[Susie]

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Hi Guys,

 

I occasionally need to photograph small items, usually a friend's wargame figures, but someitmes larger items such as Leica lenses, but always end up faffing about trying to get even lighting etc.  Can anyone suggest a simple, cheap and easily stored way of making a cove box to do this?

 

Thanks,

 

Susie

[Michael Hiles]

My approach would depend on the light sources available. To make a cove box (I hope I am thinking about what you mean), I would go to a building supply store and get some 1/2 inch plastic pipe and corner and T fitting and make a frame. I would then  shroud it with a white bed sheet. I would then shine my lights through the sheetso the interior walls take on the qualities of a soft box. You may need to think about colour balance unless you are doing black and white. I have seen smaller commercially available boxes - the gut was photographing wine bottles and wanted soft wrap around light. Worked well.

 

Alternatively, a large north window as a soft light source (probably on the right side, and a reflector on the left will produce very nice soft lighting. This is a very old portrait lighting technique.

Edited July 15, 2016 by Michael Hiles

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