Take Better Product Photos with a DIY Light Tent

Need product photos for your Web site or catalog? A decent camera is only half the battle; you also need a well-lit environment and suitable backdrop. For small objects, nothing beats a light box, also known as a light tent or photo box. You can buy professional boxes starting at around $100, or you can cobble one together for as little as $10 in materials. The one shown here, for instance, relies on PVC pipe, posterboard, and cheapo spotlights. Here's another one that uses a cardboard box and tracing paper. And one more based on nothing more than a white bucket.

Remember, crummy-looking product photos make your products look crummy. With a small amount of time, elbow grease, and cash, you can put together a light box that'll make your products look their best. Photo by rrazor.