Shop Class: How to Build a Tabletop Photo Studio

Want to improve your product photos on eBay, Etsy, or your own website?

Here are a few simple things you need to set up a basic white background photo studio in your home or apartment.

1 - photo backdrop support system

These are easier to find -- and less expensive -- than you'd thnk. Check with your local camera shop or score one online. 

2 - pendant paper globe lamp

Readily available from Ikea, these pendant lamps plug into a wall or overhead outlet and provide ample fill light for your object and background. You might want to add a little wax paper to the open-ended shade base to prevent a spotlight effect.

3 - clamp light

Any corner hardware store should stock a few basic clamp light models. This light clamps on anywhere (I recommend using a tripod stand so you have a range of movement) and functions as your key light. To soften the light, you can add some rip stop nylon as a shade. (Instructions here on how to do that.) This is a cheap hack designed to replicate the soft, bright light you get with more expensive softbox lighting.

4 - butcher paper

For your backdrop. Just be sure not to get too heavy a roll so it will mount on your backdrop support without issue. Camera shops also carry paper especially for photo backdrops in a variety of colors. These rolls last a long time (years, even), and cost as little as $45.

5 - a camera tripod

A tripod allows you to stabilize your shot so you can maximize the exposure without your photos getting too blurry. It also can serve as a stand for supporting your clamp light if you're freehanding with your camera.

6 - a basic table

So you don't have to clear off a surface every time you want to take photos in your living space, I recommend getting a dedicated flat surface (even one that breaks down) to stage your photos and drop your backdrop on. 

A word on lighting: If you plan on taking your photos during the day in a room that's receiving sunlight, you should use daylight balanced lightbulbs, available online or at your local camera supply shop. There's all kinds of fancy science involved, but daylight balanced bulbs have the same color tempearture as daylight and therefore won't contrast over your object or background, like this: