DIY Mini Softbox not using a clamplight

J

jmarshallplz

New member
Hey all, finally subscribed to the forum. I don't have access to clamplights where I'm from which is what most of the DIY softboxes are based on. So I had to come up with something else.

 
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That was a very well made DIY video. Good job! I have saved that as a favorite video and I am going to put together notes on the particulars of the construction of a light like that and put it into my notebook that I carry around for my references. You never know when making one of those lights might be real handy. My only suggestion is, if using that type of base/socket, I would replace the Phillips head screw with a comparable sized bolt and a wing nut so that the tilt angle could be adjusted without tools. I would add a washer on both sides to keep the bolt and nut from tearing up the plastic.

Here is a DIY tip for you. In the opening shot, where you are addressing the camera with the hot windows in the back. I have found a simple and inexpensive way to knock down windows like that. I carry in my kit a roll or two of black nylon screen material. The type I use, Phifer brand 48" X 84" black pet screen, would knock down those windows about a stop and a half. It is real handy stuff to have around to lower the intensity of practicals and what not. I would get something like this to adjust the intensity of the soft box that you make; since they can not be dimmed. Just cut sheets to fit the front of the light and then you could lower the intensity of the light output to what ever you wanted. Here is a link to the type of screen I keep around.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Phifer-48-in-x-84-in-Black-Pet-Screen-3004153/100565927#.UZw_v4Jt9r0

For the scene in you video, just cut a piece to cover the windows behind you in the video and gaf tape it to the outside of the window.
 
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Thanks everyone for the positive feedback and tips, it's appreciated.

@Zephyrnoid - I will definately see if I can customize the design to try fold it flat
@David G. Smith - Thanks for the clever tip about the background light, I'll give it a try.
 
Don't bother. I've already done one. Just too damned lazy to post. I did use corrugated polyurethane though ;)
jmarshallplz said:
Thanks everyone for the positive feedback and tips, it's appreciated.

@Zephyrnoid - I will definately see if I can customize the design to try fold it flat
@David G. Smith - Thanks for the clever tip about the background light, I'll give it a try.
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