4 DIY Lighting and Flash Tutorials

Apr 8, 2009 by Matt Voran

Professional looking lighting is something that for many beginners or hobbyists, is just a bit out of reach monetarily speaking.  But have no fear, there are some very clever people out there that have come up with some great ways to get professional results with just a few bucks, a little effort and some experimenting.

1. Homemade “Snoot”

A snoot, is really a tube that focus’s the light from your flash into a more concentrated form, allowing you to get very dramatic lighting effects. This tutorial    from DIY Photography shows you step by step (its super super easy) how to make and use one.

2. DIY Ring Flash

A ring flash is something that many photographers use, often on portraits or macro shots.  It gives a nice effect in a subjects eyes as well as spreading the light out nice and evenly.  This tutorial is awesome, I have used this exact method and I love the results I get from it.  And it is free, assuming you already drink milk.

3. Poor Mans Light Tent

A light tent is really a box, or trapezoid shaped well…tent. Its got translucent material on all sides and is often used for product photography.  It can dramatically improve your results and they can be purchased for as little as 30 bucks, but if you are on a budget, one can be had for less than ten dollars, or even free if you have the materials laying around the house.  Check it out!

4. Pocket Bounce Flash

I LOVE this one.  I used to use this method all the time before I bought my bounce flash.  If you have a business card laying around you can bounce your on-camera flash with ease.  Not only is it next to free, its super portable and you can almost always find something that will work no matter where you are. Read More

Hope this list helps you on your way to professional lighting on a budget.  Please leave comments with any other suggested links you might have!

MV