Homebuilt flouresant setup

[Tony B]

Hi guys,

I am looking to build a fluorescent lighting setup. I design websites and currently use a worklight setup with photo umbrellas for product shots etc. Got the idea from a photography site that I visit.

It works good, but puts out a lot of heat.

Here's what I have in mind for my new fluorescent setup:

I want to create a 2' x 2' box with an open front (like a commercial photo/video light box) and mount 8 - 24" bulbs in it (from Lowes).

I will install the individual sockets and get a ballast to run all 8. Buying those premade shop lights would be pretty steep, not to mention a lot of extra weight.

I would make two of these and make them where I can put them together and latch them. (like a flight case). They would mount onto the same worklight stand.

Question is buying 16 professional bulbs would cost a good bit. What type of 24" bulb that you can get at Lowes would you guys reccommend?

I am trying to do more video work, and defiantly want to get a DVX100a when I can later, so keep in mind that I want to make an all around light setup.