(Part 2) Best photography studio equipment according to redditors
We found 932 Reddit comments discussing the best photography studio equipment. We ranked the 395 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the products ranked 21-40. You can also go back to the previous section.
They spent $50 on that? You can buy a reusable, collapsible unit for about half.
🇺🇸 United States
All promotions are at the discretion of listed retail partners. Prices and availability are subject to change.
🛒 Amazon
|Product|Deal Price|Date|
|:-|:-|:-|
|Stream Deck Mini|$61.99|❌ Deal Over|
|Green Screen|$129.99|❌ Deal Over |
|Cam Link 4K|$99.99|❌ Deal Over |
|HD60 S|$119.99|❌ Deal Over |
​
🛒 Best Buy
|Product|Deal Price|Date|
|:-|:-|:-|
|Stream Deck|$99.99|❌ Deal Over |
|Stream Deck XL|$199.99|❌ Deal Over |
|Cam Link 4K|$99.99|❌ Deal Over |
|HD60 S|$119.99|❌ Deal Over |
Pretty decent actually. It's amazing some of the terrible photography you see on eBay... and a lot of it still sells. These aren't perfect but they're good enough to sell the item.
I use this and I'm very happy with it. Only issue is that it's not great for bigger items. https://www.amazon.ca/StudioPRO-Portable-Photography-Lighting-Lightbox/dp/B00TIAH33U/ref=sr_1_11?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1523894242&sr=1-11&keywords=photography+lighting+kit
As a beginner, use a light box aka a light tent.
Indoors with a light box gives you the most control. Being made out of glass, those items will reflect everything around them, so you want to be able to control those reflections and place them exactly where you want them.
You'll want to be able to vary the intensity of the light, and its distance from the light box. You may at some point want to use more than one light. You'll be more productive and learn more working inside under controlled conditions instead of trying to use the sun.
I use this one. You might also want to look into:
Some of this might sound like overkill, until you start shooting.
It's attached to the chair, yeah.
I can't direct you to a forum, but photography is key. I bought a small lightbox that has a solid white and black foam insert (interchangeable).
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M9IPG53/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
With a plain background, nothing distracts. For example on the photo above, the slight bit of green at the top of your photo distracts me.
Your best bet is just doing it yourself using you iPhone and these few items from Amazon. It'll cost you about $100 for these 3 items, but you'll never have to pay someone to do it for you, so its worth it.
https://www.amazon.com/Julius-Studio-Photography-Backdrop-Background/dp/B015YHXHWQ/ref=sr_1_3?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1526082839&sr=1-3&keywords=white+photo+backdrop
https://www.amazon.com/Julius-Studio-Background-Backdrop-Photography/dp/B072BCNRTY/ref=pd_bxgy_421_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B072BCNRTY&pd_rd_r=3P35Q5G0Z2FWQG3Q4TAK&pd_rd_w=ZQN9c&pd_rd_wg=ReAuO&psc=1&refRID=3P35Q5G0Z2FWQG3Q4TAK
https://www.amazon.com/Fancierstudio-DK2-Professional-Photography-continuous/dp/B004TSCARK/ref=sr_1_7?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1526082936&sr=1-7&keywords=studio+lighting
This one
It's pretty good and it's collapsible, which is great for the "portable" portion of my portable workshop
Of course!
I bought this.
Very easy to set up, and the LEDs are so bright one doesn't even need to use a tripod.
Sandbags. I get sandbags that grips use on movie sets, and just lay one over the legs. Something like this:
http://www.amazon.com/StudioFX-SANDBAG-HEAVYDUTY-SADDLEBAG-DESIGN/dp/B00CXUT5ZG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1395593829&sr=8-2&keywords=Sandbag
Thanks, this is the light box I use. Pretty good deal and it’s lit by leds.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078ZT9L9F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_h2UwCb7S074XR
I bought this kit and took the picture with a Galaxy S6 strapped to a tripod.
Mini is Belladonna Blitz from Black Sun Miniatures.
Maybe some sandbags.
I've seen others mention https://www.amazon.com/Print-File-Preservers-3-5x3-5-Inch-Prints/dp/B00DDTQFN6/ as an option.
if you try these 2 things, the lighting for your photos will be more consistent, and your shadows won't be nearly so harsh.
edit: if all your pieces are small, like this one, you might consider a soft tent, which will soften those shadows more than a single soft box.
sleeves were from amazon:
Print File Preservers for 12 3.5x3.5-Inch Prints, Pack of 25 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DDTQFN6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_kqoyCb44VKFE7
Holds 6 games perfectly, I'm using a 1.5inch binder which can for 5 full sleeves, went with that amount to avoid too much weight on the binder.
I know you don't want to use any floor space, but if just a little bit would be ok, you could use a "Floor-to-Ceiling" Pole (there are way cheaper ones) and add a clamp or another holder for the Lighthouses. At least they won't take as much space as a tripod.
I bought this one and am very happy with it.
picked up this as well, and while the lightbox is really nice and folds up flat, the lights are kind of shit, at least for my needs. you could probably do better
the macro stand, though, I'd buy that again in a minute if I needed it. It's designed very well and has a nice geared track.
Have you considered using corner adhesives?
http://www.amazon.ca/3M-Scotch-Photo-Corners-Adhesive/dp/B000ELL2A2
I haven't used them, but it seems to me that there's glue only on the corners (that you can adhere to the photo sleeve), so they hold the photos without any glue.
You can find some at the dollar store to experiment before you commit to this method.
Hope it helps, good luck, and congratulations! :)
Copied Directly from r/ElgatoGaming Sticky
$130$99.99) -BUY NOW$180$119.99) - BUY NOW,400$249.95) - BUY NOW$150$99.99) - BUY NOW$100$59.99)- BUY NOW$200$149.99) - BUY NOW$160$129.99) -BUY NOW$300$199.99) - BUY NOW$350$299.99) -BUY NOW$90$59.95) -BUY NOWI use this light box from Amazon. Cheap solution for someone who is too lazy to make one (like me). If you look through my post history, you can totally tell the difference in photo quality when I started using it. I use my iPhone 5 and occasionally a macro lens clip.
You have a unique closet with lots of great valuable pieces. It's worth it for you to invest in some equipment. Lightweight box and dress form would drastically improve your photos and presentation. You can purchase both for $100 on Amazon.
For your jewelry, I'd buy neutral color jewelry display stands. Personally black doesn't photo well.
I'll do some digging around and edit with links to what example of what I'm talking about. Keep in mind, after you finish selling your stuff (if Poshmark hasnt become habit forming) and if youre done with Poshmark you can always sell your equipment on Ebay. You have high-end unique items that will sell, and professional equipment will speed up the process.
edit:
Jewerly Supplies
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Jewelry-Display-Storage-Mannequin-Necklace-Bracelet-Watch-Stand-Holder-16-Kinds/172994771570?hash=item28474aba72:m:muw3aBw2N5WY3Z8YFbBxLzw
Small box for photos -- jewelry and shoes etc.
https://www.amazon.com/Portable-Jewellery-Photography-Shooting-Backdrops/dp/B078ZT9L9F/ref=pd_sbs_421_4/130-8055746-7930327?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B078ZT9L9F&pd_rd_r=034f5813-72d6-11e9-a70e-fdfd69152f1b&pd_rd_w=K3SxU&pd_rd_wg=Yadx3&pf_rd_p=588939de-d3f8-42f1-a3d8-d556eae5797d&pf_rd_r=V72S5QS2V6DW9H5CW7P6&psc=1&refRID=V72S5QS2V6DW9H5CW7P6
Set of softbox lights
https://www.amazon.com/ESDDI-Photography-Continuous-Equipment-Portraits/dp/B015DYIQ94/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=lightbox+photography&qid=1557460179&rnid=2941120011&s=electronics&sr=1-4
Dress form
https://www.amazon.com/Bonnlo-Female-Pinnable-Mannequin-Wooden/dp/B072VHFBSJ/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=dress+form&qid=1557460275&s=photo&sr=8-2
If i was going to be spending that much money I'd go with the one that had 232 reviews for only $10 more.
http://www.amazon.com/StudioPRO-Portable-Product-Photography-Lighting/dp/B00TIAH33U/
Macro photography is one of my favorite things!
This setup is around $100 (50mm lens is optional and not part of this total) and a great place to start.
The extension tubes, when used on an (optional) 50mm lens, allows you to be anywhere from 21cm away from the subject, to 4.2cm depending on how you stack them :)
The lightbox kit comes with various backdrops and lighting. You can also use paper as a background if need be.
I also extremely recommend a tripod, when you're that close to the subject the depth of field becomes shallow. You may also want to set a timer that way pressing the shutter doesn't cause shake.
You'll probably eventually want an actual macro lens, as well as a better tripod for outdoor excursions, but if you're just doing this and staying in one place this is just fine :)
You might look into getting some sandbags as well. I work in video, and I've bumped into stands with expensive lights on them enough times to know the value of a low center of gravity.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O4H6AI6
(Make sure to read reviews and avoid cheap, leaky sandbags! I just linked the first ones I saw pop up on Amazon.)
Virtual doesn't exist. I wish it did, but it doesn't. At least not for Linux. Even for the other OSes, virtual screen software is pretty terrible. It just doesn't work well.
These are your best bet:
Fovitec StudioPRO - 5' x 6.5' Green/Blue Double-Sided Pop-Out Muslin Backdrop - [Collapsible Background][Matte Finish][Carrying Case Included] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FJ1JUXS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Ov6PCbZ257N5H
StudioPRO Pop Out Muslin Background Backdrop & Reflector Clip Light Stand Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PLEX7Q4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Ox6PCb7DH78VK
I'm currently unemployed. I have a lot of time to fill (you can only apply to so many jobs a day, you know) so I'm catching up on some of my hobbies I've let slide recently. One of them is scrapbooking, and I could use some more of these photo corners to secure my photos without gluing them down! I love them because if I want to take a photo out to scan or show someone, it's pretty easy.
Thanks for the contest and pay attention in class!
Yeah, I got this guy for my stream and it's super small when not in use, and fairly small when in use.. I don't have any special lighting, and it works great for me.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FJ1JUXS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I don't think it would be any weirder than walking into someone live streaming with you in the background.. 6 one, half dozen the other.
Like most have said lighting, lighting, lighting. Lighting also includes the back drop, as it can provide lighting in a smoother way. Here are two images to compare:
Good Lens, just ok lighting.
Ok Lens, Good, smooth lighting.
Personally I like the Good lighting photo better. The gold seems more unified and rich in color. This was done before I had a light box, so I made a light box out of white sheets of paper.
This one it has a led light on the top as well you plug in with a micro USB cable
u/lilypichu get a sandbag for your mic stand please
here's an amazon link https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Photographic-Sandbag-Studio-Stands/dp/B00LIRRLBU/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1521486820&sr=8-5&keywords=sandbag&dpID=51ZWFs4puvL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch
Get one please. I beg you.
CC u/sleightlymusical
I think you're over-killing this. My daughter is a professional photographer so I'm somewhat familiar with the needs and requirements.
For less money you can just buy a much lighter gear for this. It will be also more versatile, easier to store and offer the bottom background - all in one.
Example:
https://www.amazon.com/Julius-Studio-Photography-Backdrop-Background/dp/B015YHXHWQ
If you're looking to do product photography, focus on proper lighting first. I'd recommend you should get a small lens kit for your iPhone and one of these
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00TIAH33U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_lpFYzbG1FDQQM
I use these. You can get them up to 60". Tons of different people sell them so depending on which vendor you can save a few bucks more. They work well, though I have never been able to get one to fold into its tiny form again... but you can still store them flat and its fine.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008JO1QGQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
That's going to be a great room. For a studio, your principal needs are going to be lighting and backgrounds, soundproofing and camera motion. Assuming you have sound proofing taken care of, I recommend:
Lighting
With this setup, you will have 3 point LED lighting for less than $350. Cooler than tungsten - more energy efficient than either tungsten or fluorescents.
Backgrounds
With Savage background paper and tape you won't need light stands - as seen from about 0:40 to 1:00 in [this video] (http://wistia.com/learning/diy-office-video-studio). You can also get Savage paper in [white] (http://www.amazon.com/Savage-107X12-1-Background-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B001196MG0/?tag=battleforthew-20) or [black] (http://www.amazon.com/Savage-107X12-20-Background-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B005J6SCPK/?tag=battleforthew-20).
Camera Motion
Smooth dolly shots will add a lot of production value to your music videos - and this 12 foot dolly/track setup will cost you less than a lot of 3 or 4 foot sliders.
Hope this is helpful and good luck with your studio!
The Light Box I have
Example of miniatures using light box
My lighting setup is very similar to the set up on the amazon listing except using desk lamps. Just remember that the light box is used to soften light, so use straight bare bulbs.
The Amazon Basics Video tripod (make sure it's the video one with the pan handle) is a good starting point, $23.49. You'll need some sort of iphone to tripod adapter too - they're available at price points from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. No need to overspend if you're just starting out.
I'd recommend you keep that iphone on a tripod at all times - it's so small and light that hand-held footage will be shakey and offputting.
For lighting, assuming you're in a bedroom-sized space then a 3-point photography CFL lighting kit like this will be great. Nice, soft light which will make whatever you're reviewing look good. Cheap too - $46.99
Although I may be biased, I think sound is probably where most of those funds should go. People will happily watch 240p, grainy, blocky, blurry video on youtube but if they can't hear what you're saying then they're gonna switch off.
For piece-to-camera shooting I'd recommend getting a Rode Smartlav for $71.90. You can plug that straight into your iPhone for sync sound recording.
I'd also suggest getting a large-diaphragm microphone for voiceover work - i.e. whenever you're not filming yourself while talking at the same time. The Behringer C1-U is a great budget option that plugs directly into your computer's USB port for recording for $59.99. You'll need something to put it on such as a Suspension Boom ($17.99) and to make sure your audio is clean you'll need a pop filter. ($8.99)
So that's the very basics covered for $157.45 give or take though you can probably get that cheaper if you shop around. That leaves you $242.55 for some more specialist gear...
Depending on what you're reviewing, I'd recommend looking at lightboxes (5-walled cubes that you put the product in to give yourself a white background and even, soft lighting), and a motorized lazy susan (turntable) to give you some interesting options for b-roll.
If you're filming bigger stuff, then a white backdrop would work as well. You could go for something in optical green for chroma keying but keying is a pretty precise art and chances are if you're a total beginner it won't look that great until you really get the hang of it - so go for plain white first.
Chances are you'll still have some money left over after that too... iPhone footage is pretty damn good but you should start putting together a kitty for upgrading to a proper interchanagable lens camera.
Get two of these and then you can attach the whiteboard to the poles. https://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-170-Spring-Loaded-Ceiling/dp/B001M4HUGA
Privacy filter and one of these:
​
Portable Chroma Background
Oh totally. I'm currently planning for such fairs & markets coming this spring and summer! I don't know if anything will come of it but I'm currently talking with a succulent shop out of San Fran who might possibly be interested in carrying my terrariums, someone who works there found my stuff here on Reddit! The internet is absolutely amazing and creates so many opportunities for us creators.
Hmm, tips.. well it's important you have an account on most social media platforms, as many as you can personally manage. Etsy, Instagram (use as many hashtags as you can!), Reddit, Snapchat, Facebook - when you create a Facebook page it allows you to turn your Instagram into an official business page too which gives you a LOT of useful data/analytics that will help you market you wouldn't otherwise have.
It's also important you're constantly putting out content - even if it's not completed pieces be posting behind the scenes photos.. pictures of your glass, pictures of your process, pictures of your to-do list, anything! People love to see new things and staying active is important in keeping an audience and expanding it as well.
Another reason it's important to be active on a variety of platforms is due to the fact that everyone has different go-to apps. Some people may only use Facebook (usually people 40+), some people may not be on Facebook but use Instagram and Snapchat religiously (usually teens - young adults) etc.
Working on photographing your products is also something some people overlook. You want to be sure you're finding the optimal backdrop & lighting that best show off your work & craftsmanship - I'm looking into getting one of those product photography set ups with the lights and white back drop that give you a really clean look - something similar to this, there are lots of options with these will give you photos like these
If you want to really get into it I suggest listening to Gary V, or sorting through his podcast episodes and YouTube videos to what you think would apply. He's an entrepreneur and what makes him stand out is he realizes how absolutely huge the internet is for people trying to make a living off of their craft - people don't realize how easy we have it if we're smart about connecting to others. The internet connects everyone in the world into one spot... and it's all at your finger tips :)
Edit 1: ooo that would be awesome!! I'm personally a fan of cold weather but I can totally see the appeal in those locations. Where are you at now?
Edit 2: Interact with your audience no matter how small or big it is!! That's huge and really important as well, we love giving our opinions and simply talking so have conversations when you can or even something as simple as creating small polls on your Instagram story: Hey guys!! I'm having a hard time deciding which of these colors I should use on my terrarium, which do you think would look best? Etc.
When people have a positive experience with you, when you're personable and kind and interact they're way more likely to spread positive word of mouth to their friends/family which will get you a bigger audience over time - not only bigger but equally important, your audience will be filled with wonderful people that are kind and happy <3
Edit 3: sorry, I'm scatter brained lol. Marketing your product is important but marketing yourself is equally as impacting & will affect your success just as much if not more.
They have photo corners
FWIW I will be disabling the beeping as the first time I power it up. I have young kids, I know how to kill obnoxious noisemakers.
Any advice on lights? A couple years ago I bought this kit: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KGXNHSI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and found the lights to be not nearly bright enough. That was shooting with my point and shoot Nikon, though. I got a smaller tent ( https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L4VDU60/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 ) which seems appropriate for the smaller items I make and it was better but the pictures are still quite dark.
I'm going to recommend that you look into Paul C. Buff AlienBees. They offer a lot of value and aren't that expensive ($225-$360, depending on the power output), are built like tanks, last for years (my oldest is around 6-7 years old and still going strong), and have tons of inexpensive accessories available for them. I'd pair it with one of their softboxes - probably an octabox. For the specific model, I'd suggest a B800. It has a decent amount of power vs. daylight, but can be reduced enough to not overpower too much in a studio environment.
There are cheaper options than AlienBees out there, but Paul C. Buff has an excellent reputation for quality, reliability, and customer service that you just aren't going to find with anyone manufacturing a cheaper strobe... and AlienBees are pretty cheap for what you get anyway. :-)
For light stands, I'd suggest either Westcott or Avenger. Westcott's 13-foot heavy-duty light stand will get the job done for around $60, though Avenger's C-stand is much more stable for around $200 ($250 if you want the removable base, which is nice for collapsing during transport). Avenger also makes a solid boom for another $120. You can get away with just a single light stand for now, however. Just make sure you sandbag it. (I recommend pebbles rather than stand, and fill up a gallon-size ziplock bag rather than dumping them directly into the sandbag to avoid mess.)
Hi, I want to use a green screen. I've purchased this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PLEX7Q4 and this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FJ1JUXS
And now I just need some good lighting to be able to Chroma Key out the green screen. What would you guys recommend? I guess Amazon links would probably be the easiest? This will be used on a Twitch live stream to chroma key out the background.
My office is pretty small, even that green screen takes up a ton of space in it.
Thank you.
Similar thread here:
https://www.reddit.com/r/PSP/comments/84koy6/anyone_know_where_to_get_a_binder_or_case_to_hold/
Some people use baseball/trading card binders, or photo/floppy disk organizers.
https://www.amazon.com/Print-File-Preservers-3-5x3-5-Inch-Prints/dp/B00DDTQFN6/
Alternatively, those 4/8 disc soft cases are super cheap and easy to find. Organize your collection into genre, alphabetical, most-used, whatever and split it up among multiple cases.
As most people here have mentioned, paper is going to be the easiest to deal with for solid colors. The best thing about paper is that if you scuff, crinkle, or tear it, you just cut off that section and unroll it some more. It's cheap enough to not worry about, and super-easy to work with. No cleaning (like vinyl), and no worrying about permanent footprints. A 36-foot roll of paper in most colors will run you about $40 for 53" or $60 for 107" width. You mentioned groups, so I'd recommend a 107" roll to avoid running out of room. 53" is really just for individuals, groups, and pets or products. Here are a few other things to consider:
Are you always shooting at home, or does your backdrop need to be mobile?
I have two sets of triple-rollers set up in my studio. They can be found for around $70 on Amazon, and can be wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted. Each set lets me mount 3 different rolls, and I have one set for 53" rolls and one for 107" rolls. If I want to switch colors, I just pull on the chain to raise one and lower another. To swap out a color, it only takes a couple of minutes.
For mobile situations, get yourself a backdrop crossbar and a pair of light stands. If you only use them once in a while, you can again find them on Amazon for around $40. But if you plan to use them consistently, I'd recommend getting something sturdier. Westcott makes a really nice 13-foot stand for around $80 each (you'll need two), and their crossbar is around $90, though some cheaper crossbars can be found for roughly half that. You can spend less on a smaller stand, but I wouldn't recommend it; anything smaller or cheaper loses a lot of stability. These stands will last you forever, are still cheap enough to not worry about it too much, and are fully usable as actual light stands in case you decide to start working with off-camera lighting later.
Safety
I'd also recommend 2-3 sandbags for each stand to reduce the risk of someone kicking them over. We live in a litigious country; don't get sued. You can buy empty sandbags pretty cheap (about $20 for 4 on Amazon) and then fill them with $5, 50-lb bags of playground sand from your local hardware store.
How are you using your backdrop?
For either of these scenarios, you'll need some way to keep the background down, as it tends to curl. Your local hardware store carries simple spring clamps for about a buck apiece, and 3-4 of those at each corner and in the middle will keep things stable. I'd recommend picking up a few extras as they're crazy-cheap, and great for keeping your backdrop from unrolling if you aren't using a roller system with resistance.
If you're looking for something seamless, you should also consider a roll of gaffers tape (or blue painter's tape, if you're trying to save money) to keep your paper on the floor, in case you want to create a sweep. In case you aren't familiar with this term, a sweep is where the background makes a rounded, 90-degree turn at the floor, resulting in a seamless background with no "corner". It's how you get those images where your subject is isolated against a background.
What it'll cost you, total
All-told, your total cost for this setup (doing it "right") is going to run you about $300 for your supports (including clamps, tape, sandbags, etc.), or about $100 if you go with the wall/ceiling mount. Paper rolls aren't included in this. This is about as cheap as it gets to do it "right", unless you're looking at an entirely DIY solution... at which point the price can drop to 1/10th of that.
Alternatives to paper rolls
If you're looking for more interesting backgrounds, you have three main options:
Dyed muslins will start at about $40-60 and look like these. Printed or painted ones (muslin fabric or vinyl start at $60-100 and go up from there. But if you have a spare flash, you can pick up the Rosco Strobist Collection of gels on Amazon for between $10 and $20, and then have any color background you want, with a nice, smooth gradient. You can toss it on a backward-pointing light stand behind your subjects, or backlight the backdrop from behind. Note that your camera and flash will need to support wireless triggering to do this, or you'll need some radio triggers.
What you get out of your setup depends on what you put into it
You can do some really interesting things with just a simple white backdrop. The biggest factor is going to be how much time you put into learning how to use it. Here's a post to get you started. Note that this article also has a link at the end to a second article about how to create interesting backgrounds using random objects in front of the flash. Definitely a good read.
Good luck! :-)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01JHR5I8A/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_6?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=A2IXKAD5ED4Q12
Most tripods have a hook to add additional weight which can help with stability. If not you can still use sandbags to help.
I have this light box on my wishlist.
I keep my cards and pilot bases in binders:
The ships I actually keep on their bases and pegs, using the ID token holders on the bases to hold the chit for the maneuver dial and the actual maneuver dial (I'm using the dial upgrades: https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/products/x-wing/products/imperial-maneuver-dial-upgrade-kit/). That way, when I want to fly a ship, I can just grab it off the shelf and I've already got the maneuver dial and the chit ready to go.
This is the actual seamless I used - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001196MG0/ref=oh_details_o01_s01_i00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
There are links to other qualities/sizes in that Amazon page.
It's pretty thick and sturdy. I think in a controlled environment, like my basement, it will be fairly durable/easy to maintain.
The floorboard covers puncture/scuffs from shoes.
So here's some quick research (And note, I am not an authority on this but I'm takin' a stab):
The cheapest solution would be to buy some Muslin fabric. This stuff seems to be the fabric of choice for photo/video sets and theater. From a fabric store it looks like you can get it at about $2-$4 per yard and based on the sizes of some pre-made backdrops, a generic size seems to be about 2 yards in width and 3 yards in length.
But when fabric is sold to you, it's sold to you in 1 yard width pieces and you tell the employee the length to cut it in. So if you get two 3-yard long pieces, you could probably more than cover the space behind the couch. You could probably even do less. Two 3-yard long pieces at $4 each would cost you $24. You'd also probably need some super strong tacks and a hammer to hold up the fabric behind you on the wood.
Cheap Muslin Fabric
More Muslin Fabric Options
[There are also pre-made backdrops] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001196MG0/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B001196MG0&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=theslalen-20&amp;linkId=EN2AURLSZQNLT4XY) but they're a bit more expensive.
Last option is to just yolo swag out with some middle school photo backdrops lol.
Anyway, let me know if this helps! If anyone is more knowledgeable on cheap video backdrops, please chime in.
I've been thinking about getting these for a while.
Stand: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00PLEX7Q4/ref=aw_wl_ov_dp_1_2?colid=1AJS6W6U61BZP&amp;coliid=I2GXDTG78VKNIM
Green screen: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FJ1JUXS/ref=aw_wl_ov_dp_1_3?colid=1AJS6W6U61BZP&amp;coliid=I2OAU8956BD83&amp;vs=1
I do thing a Stand would work with this item
Yeah, I've just found the photo tent idea and did a quick google search. This seems like a good thing to start with. Quite cheap, I can test the waters and build something better later on. I don't know if 60x60 or 80x80 though. Considering that the LACK table is only 50x50, on the outside, I guess 60x60 should do the trick? Just have to find a way to handle filament hen, it may fit in with 80x80 too. Hm.
This one and this one look cool too. With included LEDs, so camera would work better. Maybe even a permanent solution.
Have you considered a contractor pole? You can also use cheap sand bags. In terms of filler, you can get cheap playground sand for $5/bag, but I recommend spending just a few dollars more and get pebbles instead. Place whatever you decide to fill the sandbags with inside gallon size ziplog bags. These extra steps help to avoid getting sand and dust everywhere.
I ordered a small photo box off amazon
and a couple spotlights. It makes all the difference in the world, cost about $30 total and its big enough for about 1 - 3 or 4 figures. I use an ancient 5 megapixel digital camera (top of the line a decade ago lol) and get pretty nice pictures. You can certainly get very good pictures without spending a fortune.
I'm only entering this because I could really use these items. Even though I don't think girlsplaywow is a jerk at all.
This paint shaker and this light box would be so insanely helpful for my nail polish business.
What about something like a floor to ceiling tension rod?
http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-170-Spring-Loaded-Ceiling/dp/B001M4HUGA
(I'm guessing you'd be able to find or jury rig something less expensive than that particular item.)
A floor to ceiling rod seems like it'd be an even more stable non-permanent solution than the tripod solutions people have been talking about, with the advantage of having a smaller, almost non-existent footprint.
edit: Here's a cheap floor to ceiling shower caddy pole that might do the trick:
http://www.amazon.com/Zenna-7013W-Behind--Tension-Corner/dp/B004EPXKLS/
Like Lowfat_Cheese said, a light box works wonders, and doesn't break the bank: https://www.amazon.com/Foldable-Portable-Lighting-Background-adjustable/dp/B01JHR5I8A/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1495326749&amp;sr=8-11&amp;keywords=light+box
It’s the 16” version of this one
It’s fairly well made and provides pretty decent lighting coverage. I need a light to help illuminate the front better when I have the front flap completely exposed but all in all I enjoy it. Has a top down flap as well.
The camera I’m using is an older Canon DSLR set at 1/100 SS F/8 ISO 200 if memory serves correctly.
You won’t be able to achieve these pics with a phone I don’t believe. You have to be able to control the aperture to really dial it in and you can’t control the aperture on a phone.... or iPhone at least.
We had this problem and I actually bought some sandbags to weigh it down so they couldn't move it. Not dirty outside ones, but nylon bags for putting sand it. It worked really well.
Edit: these are what I used. Saved us from drilling holes in our walls. [bags](StudioFX SANDBAG Sand Bag SADDLEBAG Double Zipper Design 4 BAGS WEIGHT BAGS FOR PHOTO VIDEO STUDIO STAND by Kaezi https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CXUT5ZG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ryojDbQSA6FND)
Lavalier Lapel Microphone Omnidirectional Mic with Easy Clip On System Perfect for Recording Youtube / Interview / Video Conference / Podcast / Voice Dictation / iPhone https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E3L1ESS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_0k9gDbFKCNQXH
Apple Lightning to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LXJFMGF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Gl9gDbSFZ8MF9
Webaround Portable Webcam Background, 56" (Chroma Key Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y2G2YP5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_qv9gDbWA8XX2W
I put the lighting, the microphone and adapter and a green screen so he can change the background. I think it comes to 110usd.
>Including (2) 45 Watt 5000K Light Bulbs
I think as /u/willcodejavaforfood mentioned your lights are too far away from the product AND your light tent looks really thin and is probably not diffusing the light enough either. Have you tried putting the lights right up to the tent? Is this the light tent kit you have?
I think your problem could be that with only two harsh directional light sources essentially 30" or more away from your products there's no way to avoid a lot of shadows.
My system has four large diffused florescent daylight-balanced bulbs INSIDE the light box, which fills the box (it's a reflective silver/white color) with light and casts very few shadows. You could try adding more lights or finding some bigger light sources (soft boxes) maybe.
Very much like those! The ones I've used are a full triangle of clear, like this: http://www.amazon.com/3M-Scotch-Photo-Corners-Adhesive/dp/B000ELL2A2/ref=sr_1_1?s=arts-crafts&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1410828467&amp;sr=1-1
If you are in the states, you should be able to find them at any scrapbooking store. In Michaels or JoAnns they would be by the scrapbooking adhesives.
The corners are very secure. I mounted them on cardstock, then slipped them into a typical 12 x 12 scrapbooking sleeve type album. I did this ... in like 2005 or 2006 and the pictures haven't moved at all. And they are clear, so honestly they blend into the background. The pictures really do take center stage.
Laughing at myself for a bit right now, I should have taken pictures of what I did!!
Good luck with your project and holler back if you have any other questions.
Is a backdrop like this any different than a large white piece of fabric that you can buy at walmart or target?
Maybe this kind of poles?
http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-170-Spring-Loaded-Ceiling/dp/B001M4HUGA
Looks good to me. I would add one more thing.
Some sand bags for the stand. Only $17.
It's a big umbrella, and although it most likely won't tip over. Better to be safe than sorry, especially if you are going to be shooting newborns, lol. Only takes someone accidentally bumping into it.
I was going to try to do a studio shoot in my apartment with some white seemless and maybe some other colors? I have worked with seamless paper background but never bought it before. is there anything I should know or watch for. was looking at [this]?(https://www.amazon.com/Savage-107X12-1-Seamless-Background-107-Inch/dp/B001196MG0/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1468362790&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=white+seamless+backdrop)
You could do it with the scrapbook corner sticker things.
These would work. You would only need two per picture to keep it in place!
Thanks for sharing. This is pretty good if you have the stuff already laying around and don't mind keeping a bulky box around. I had been looking at some cheap setups on Amazon as listed below, but maybe a hybrid approach of getting a pre-made box that collapses and then using cheaper lights, including some I already have.
Just a world of caution, especially if you use halogen or incandescent lights with tissue paper... fire hazard, be careful there.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008JO1QGQ/
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005CX9S8A
Also see "spring loaded pole". Some suggested harbor freight sells a cheaper solution (not as pretty as mine).
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001M4HUGA/
I would change your "camera stand" to simply a tripod stand. Camera tripods are very different from the type of stand you link to, which are more typically used for lighting or green screen placement. No photographer would use a lightweight flexible tripod like that for camera use- and tripods typically don't reach 6-7 feet in height. And, you might also mention to use a sandbag to weigh down the stands for greater stability on the tripod. These work well and call attention themselves nicely to keep others from missing the black tripod legs.
https://www.amazon.com/StudioFX-SANDBAG-SADDLEBAG-DESIGN-Photography/dp/B00O4H6AI6/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=tripod+sandbag&qid=1557117727&s=gateway&sr=8-3
&#x200B;
And, in addition to the tripods, they should get a ball and socket tripod head to attach the tripod to the base station. They typically don't come equipped with them.
Just two things;
You may want to invest in a Light Tent, something cheap like this would work, for your images of accessories and kits. The lighting in the images could really be better, and would help give the viewer a more clear image of what they are buying.
Additionally, there is nothing in the "Support" tab, maybe just some contact info or something. Perhaps even additional FAQ information could go there...something.
Otherwise, the site looks nice! I'd buy from you!
if I win, I love rootbeer, and am proud of my own DIY rootbeer, but would love to try yours! 18-12mg is fine for me, in a 50/50 pg/vg if possible
https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Photography-Shooting-Including-Backgrounds/dp/B00KGXNHSI
And replace the bulbs with
https://www.amazon.com/LimoStudio-Photography-Studio-Fluorescent-Balanced/dp/B009F37KO2
Should be plenty of light...
I just yesterday got the 16x16x16 version of this yesterday to do some product shots. Pretty pleased with the results. It's as 'plug and play' as you'll get once you put the box together. It comes with two adjustable LED strips which attach to the top. Brightness is more than sufficient and they have a nice daylight colour. It's not perfect but for the price I can't complain. That said: I live in China and over here it costs about 1/3 of the price listed on Amazon, so you're getting ripped off a bit, but even so I think it's a pretty good deal.
I also got a backlit LED panel which fits into the base but I can't seem to find it online. If you can find something like this I'd highly recommend it as well.
This is the kit I bought:
https://www.amazon.com/Fovitec-StudioPRO-Photography-Fluorescent-Lighting/dp/B00TIAH33U/ref=pd_sim_421_3?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B00L5TGT82&amp;pd_rd_r=ZW5E866HS7TXEB73390Q&amp;pd_rd_w=3TTgm&amp;pd_rd_wg=a3QBQ&amp;refRID=ZW5E866HS7TXEB73390Q&amp;th=1
Portable Photo Studio Box for Jewellery and Small Items Portable Folding Photography Studio Box Booth Shooting Tent Kit（2x20 LED Lights 6 Colors Backdrops https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078ZT9L9F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_FGBvCbEVKXWJJ
Nothing fancy. Just basic
This usually runs around 19$ depending on availability: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GKG4JVE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_lO5Syb549D0KW
You can pre-order Cam Link now on Amazon with an expected release /ship date of August 18th.
Green Screen should be available for pre-order soon as well. Link to Amazon page.
I second the lighting suggestion. Good lighting will do a lot.
Look into something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078ZT9L9F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_bHz5BbN0K63DB
https://www.amazon.com/Webaround-Portable-Webcam-Background-Chroma/dp/B06Y2G2YP5/
Hey friend! I'm a relatively new streamer too and I can tell you all the things that I have found that I wanted and reasoning behind them. Sorry for formatting, I'm on mobile.
First things first, I got a nice webcam like this. The better quality your camera, the more genuine your interactions with chat become. Plus, you can eventually add a green-screen later if thata something he's interested in.
On that topic, Elgato sells a green-screen that is super easy to set up and tear down that's a little pricey, but it can be worth it. I've seen people use this for all sorts of things. One guy I know, if he died in PUBG, he would switch scenes to one where his face is on a flip phone, and it would appear like his team that he was spectating was holding it, video chatting with him. Real cute haha.
If you're planning on getting him a headset, I ALWAYS suggest getting a USB headset, not one with an auxiliary plug. This reduces static noise and allows for surround sound transmission if the headset is surround-sound enabled.
Now, I'm not a big fan of the boom mic setup for a couple reasons, but here's a few reasons why I think people have bought them:
Here's my reasoning why I don't like boom mics:
I can't really say anything about the stream deck, but I've heard both good and bad things about it. I know a lot of big name streamers use it.
An interesting idea would be to give him codes to giveaway on stream. You can buy codes for online currency for Xbox, PS4, or individual games on Amazon, and then he can run giveaways and give them to his viewers.
Finally, there's some program Twitch made called Twitch Affiliate which allows people to start earning money through Twitch after accumulating a certain amount of viewers and followers. After meeting all the requirements to join this program, you get access to having you're own emotes (3 to start, more if you become a Twitch Partner which is way harder to do), accepting donations, subscriptions, and subscriber badges. If you think he has an idea of what he would want for emotes and sub badges, you can always find someone to make him some as a gift.
I'm so sorry that I just typed so much but if you have any questions feel free to let me know!
TL;DR: consider good webcam, green-screen, maybe stream deck, I have certain negative feelings against boom mics, you could buy codes for giveaways, and maybe even commission some emotes/sub badges for him
I have this one and it's nice because the 2 mini sub ends go to one regular sub port so you only need one charger.
www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Foldable-Portable-Background-Adjustable/dp/B01JHR5I8A/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref=yo_pop_d_yo_pop_d_pd_t2
thing works great.
Hello, we run a small online consignment shop and sell high end clothing. Today we use this equipment:
Limo600W Triple Photo Umbrella Light Lighting Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B8Y4IPU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_HlCszb7T19N8W
LimoStudio Set of Two 105 Watt, 6500 K Fluorescent Daylight Balanced Light Bulb for Photography and Video Lighting, AGG878
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0089Q1HCC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_XnCszbM0XM5CQ
For background, white seamless background paper: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001196MG0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Canon T2i is our camera.
The pictures aren't bright enough. Any suggestions for bulb or umbrella/light box upgrades? Thank you.
Further info: I am set on auto mode. I've tried manual with different exposure, iso, and shutter speed levels. Auto has worked the best so far.
I've used these for the past couple years, and most of them are holding up (some handles are breaking, mostly from being thrown around). They're a 4 pack for relatively cheap. Sand still needs to be purchased. To prevent the sand from taking on water weight (if used outdoors), to prevent mold, to prevent the sandbags turning into dust bags, and to give one more layer of protection, sand should be poured into gallon-size ziploc bags before putting into the sandbag.