Often, when discussing about light box, people make it seem like it is such a big project. However, simply by using your head a little, you can create something to your desire with least amount of budget.

1. One paper box that is of the similar dimension as the tank. The height should be at least equal to the height of the tank. Double that amount would be even better, but do take caution.
2. Plastic-metallic tape, which can be found at hardware stores.
3. Aluminum foil; sold at supermarkets.
4. 8W T5 tube set X2
5. Nylon thread
6. White corrugated plastic board, which can be found at bookstores. Usually come in 3ftX2ft

Aluminum foil

Necessary accessories

Place the aluminum foil inside the cardboard box

Since we are only using a regular flashlight, therefore we must turn off all other lightings to avoid reflection from the tank glass. That’s why we install the light inside the box. We can buy one or two 8W T5 tube sets which can be tied to the nylon thread across the box.

Use a razor knife to cut an aperture that is of equal size to the flash. Place the flash at the aperture. Pretty much the whole light box is completed.

Flash choices: 1) It’s not necessary to buy a certain brand or type. 2) Either an extension cord of some sort. 3) Able to adjust the brightness or level. 4) Power matches to that of the tank. 5) An extension is needed to connect the flash and the camera.

Extension cord connected to the socket

Once everything is ready decorations can be made. White plastic board is used on top of the box to accommodate it as well as spreading the light.

Few points to consider during photography: 1) Adjust the camera to manual 2) Reduce the aperture to F8 or lower, for instance, F11, F16, etc…3) Adjust shutter to above 1/125, 1/250 4) A tripod is a must 5) Other than the light box lighting, all others must be turned off 6) ISO must be adjusted to the minimum value, for instance, ASA100, ASA 200, etc…7) Adjust accordingly the flash and aperture to attain the right exposure. Once this is done, there won’t be any necessity to change anything else. One can even shoot the pictures without the use of tripod. This kind of light box is best suited for tanks under two feet long (60cm and under). Once finished, it can be folded for easy storage. The largest box I ever made was three feet long, and at that time a better flash normally suited for photography studio was more ideal.

Comments (2)

2. Written by max838, on 24-11-2006 08:53 真應該好好學習攝影的技巧  來保存自己的作品   不知道有沒有人試過用水族運送  常用之大保麗龍箱來製作

Only registered users can write comments.
Please login or register.

Powered by AkoComment Tweaked Special Edition v.1.4.6
AkoComment © Copyright 2004 by Arthur Konze - www.mamboportal.com
All right reserved