SO my Dad called me this morning with a couple of questions about lighting.
He is going to set up a little studio in the factory to take better pictures of his products.
He asked me whether he should get a tent, or reflectors, and what kind of lighting he should do. Whether it be a top light, side lights or Strobes or continuous lighting.
I have no idea, I am useless when it comes to lighting and have no clue as to how to help him.
So anyone got any ideas??? On how to set up a studio or lighting? (it would be permanent, he would have a table and just stick things on there and shoot at the same lighting (I think)
I've done some similar product photography at work, and what I have done is to blast the area with light. My 430ex on the camera, pointed at the suspended ceiling provides some strong diffuse light and triggers optical slaves on the other flashes. Two speedlights on lightstands with umbrellas at about 7:30 and 4:30, and one on the floor behind the product to illuminate the background. A couple of reflectors (automotive sunshades)at the sides to help fill the shadows on the sides of the item.
Since your dad is going to leave this up permanently, a setup with speedlights might be too fragile and finicky. What about some inexpensive studio strobes? I've seen some stuff at Adorama for about $60 per light. Not sure how good they are, but for your dad's use I'm sure they would be sufficient. I think the key is going to be keeping it simple and robust.
I'm sure someone with more lighting expertise can give you a better suggestion.
In his case, i would recommend constant lighting. It is easier to visualize with it and usually much easier to use (no triggering, easy to adjust output by adjusting distance to subject).
I do some product photography, shoes, on the side. I got Elinchrome D-Lite 4 strobes. Also the Skyport wireless trigger, softbox, and barn door attachments, stands.
There's plenty of great lighting info for using these. Check out the video section of the website. Applies to other lighting rigs as well.
They more than paid for themselves on my first shoe shoot.
You can also thank my Elinchromes for such classics as these:
