Home Studio DIY: Create your own light tent

Follow these 6 simple steps to build your own light tent

In issue 21, on sale 10/01/13, we take a look at some budget alternatives to expensive kit, using household objects such as tin foil and milk cartons! As just a small portion of the ideas we offer you, here we give you a guide to making your own light tent!

One of the key aspects of a studio is being able to effectively light smaller items, and for this you need a light tent. This simple setup allows you to evenly light a subject from all sides, as well as give it the all important infinity background, pefect for getting stunning shots of your most precious items.

So grab your kit and follow along these 6 simple steps to building your own DIY light tent.

1. 
   

   Measure out windows

   Each of the four sides of your box will need to be cut out to ensure an even light source. Simply measure out a suitable size window for each size, being sure to remove as much of the cardboard as you can.

2. 
   

   Cut out windows

   Being sure to be careful, begin removing each of the windows from your cardboard box. You’ll also need to remove the opening flaps on the top of the box, making it completely open.

3. 
   

   Cover the outside

   Once you have removed all of the windows, begin covering 3 sides with white paper. This can be done with simple printing paper, or alternatively with slightly thicker cardboard or even cloth. The important thing is that it is evenly spread around the entire light tent.

4. 
   

   Line the inside

   The inside of your light tent will also need to be lined in white paper, ensuring your subject is evenly lit. For the background, hang a piece of paper from the back of the light tent, allowing it to curve down towards the front. This means the background of your shots won’t have a crease running through them.

5. 
   

   Cover the top

   Once you have successfully lined the inside of your light tent, you will need to cover the top. This will stop any light from escaping the tent, while only leaving only one open window to shoot through.

6. 
   

   Light the tent

   Once all but one of the windows is completely covered, you’re ready to try out your light tent. For nice even light, try placing a simple desk lamp either side of the tent. You can even add a third light source to come in through the top.