Sep 23 2007
Weekend Photography Workshop
It is funny how one hobby can lead to another… and then another. Knitting still reigns supreme, but I have to say that photography and blogging are not far behind. I so enjoy working with the fibers and the patterns, capturing the textures and rich colors, and then portraying them in this online environment. Each process leads so seamlessly into the next.
As an archivist, I get to dabble in museum studies, the theory of space, and object portrayal. At work, we are working on a large scale photography/digitization project, and I was shopping around for some supplies. I came across this great professional photography stand, that is great for object/artifact photography. Looking at this equipment, I realized what an asset this would be for my own personal knitting photography and blogging – but with a $255 price tag, it was a little steep. I have seen several bloggers use a light box setup, so Kris and I conferred and planned, and within a few hours, we got the supplies together and had a fully functional photographic light box – perfect for yarn photography, finished knits and other crafts, as well as any other objects. AND it cost less than $20. We used this small tutorial at Strobist.com as the “jumping off point” for the work, and made a few changes and enhancements with our specific interests in mind.
So, here is how you can have professional quality photographs that will showcase your yarn collection, finished knits, and enhance the quality of your blog (we all realize that photographs are a major part of knit blogging, right?)
SUPPLIES NEEDED:
- large(ish) cardboard box
- box cutter or razor blade
- white or off-white tissue paper
- clear packing tape
- posterboard/foam core/felt/plastic sheeting/fabric for backdrop
- white paper or box top covered with tin foil
- remote flash(es) or bright/flood lighting
- tripod or stand (if using remote flashes)
The Strobist site gives a photographic display of actually cutting your box, so I will not post pictures of that process here.
- Using your razor blade or box cutter, you cut out three sides of your box – leaving one side in tact, as well as the bottom and top flaps. The uncut one will be your base.
- Using the clear packing tape, attach your tissue paper with the clear packing tape. Make the paper taut enough to take away the tri-fold wrinkles, but not too taut to break if you touch it. This doesn’t have to be perfect, it will never show up in a photograph, so if the tape gets mangled and wrinkled, don’t worry.
Once the taping is complete, you can begin to experiment with backdrops. We purchased a small selection of posterboard – one in white, one in grey; two foam core boards – one green and one black; two backdrops of indiscernable material – kind of like a foam(?); two plastic aida cross-stitch counts; and two terracotta tiles – one black glaze and the other white glaze. We had trouble narrowing our options, but all of these are not necessary to get started (but all of them were quite cheap in the overall scheme of things).
The KEY factor to a successful photograph is your light source. We used two separate remote flashes – one on a tripod above the box, and one to the right of the box at a distance of about three feet. (We propped this on our kitchen counter). However, if you do not have a remote flash for your camera, you do not need to buy one for this project. You can use flood lighting, a halogen lamp, a compact fluorescent, or even an incandescent light source. With any light source, you will have to take a number of test photos to determine how bright the light should be, and how close you place it to the box.
Tripod set on the table, above the box
Choosing your backdrop and arrangement is definitely the most artistic part of the process. Your object is the most important part of the photo, so you do not want to have a distracting backdrop to take away the viewer’s attention. Therefore, it is best to go with simple neutral papers and non-printed fabrics. Testing your camera’s depth of field is also an important key – do several test shots to see where you should place the object to fit into the frame without showing the sides of the box (or these can be cropped later with a photo editing software).
You also want to determine the best angle for the photograph. Ideally, your camera should be at eye level with the object. If you were to take the shot from above, it would cast odd shadows and could possibly look distorted in shape. Leveling your camera with the box may require you, as the photographer, to kneel on your knees or sit on the floor.
When your object is in place, and you are satisfied with the settings of your light source, do several test photos. Depending on the textures and/or colors of your object, you may find that you still have significant shadows. This is often the problem when trying to photograph darker colors like black, navy, aubergine, and even red. A reflector board, or paper may be your best bet for illuminating these dark spaces. You have the option of using a white cardboard (this worked well for me) or using one of the leftover box sides and covering it with aluminum/tin foil. This reflective surface will counteract with the light sources and bring those shadowed areas to light.
Holding the reflector board at an angle either to the side or above the camera (depending on where the shadow is) will help eliminate the dark areas of the photograph. If you have a partner to help you in this process, they can hold the board above the camera as you snap the photo, but it is also possible to prop the board on the side and wedge the camera between the box sides and the board.
So what do these photos actually look like? Well, considering how easy it is to set all of it up, the photos came out very well! You don’t need the most expensive products to get good results! To ensure good results, however, you have to consider several factors:
The Importance of Backdrop
Each object has its own color spectrum, bouncing light off, and our eyes read that information and process it. Some colors can actually complement others and this aesthetic is what is pleasing and appealing to the eye. The two images below show the same object, in the same light, with two different backdrops.
It may be a matter of opinion, but the colors on the right, with the green background, seem to stand out more, while the photo on the left seems slightly overexposed. The colors in the yarn do not “pop” in the same way. Perhaps if the yarn was a solid color, it would look better on the solid background?
If the backdrop is too busy, or the colors do not complement the object, the eyes will drift away from the image. If the object is ornate and colorful in and of itself, a simpler backdrop would definitely be the best choice. Case in point: the third frame is the perfect union of object, space, and backdrop. The first two do not complement the object appropriately.
The different backdrops on the yarns above cast different moods on the photos: the white is austere and minimalist, while the black is more sophisticated. Both are successful in showing off the yarn, and even the textures of the fiber or fabric. It is the photographer’s decision to determine the mood they are trying to convey in the photograph.
Reflector Board vs. No Reflector
Depending on the shape and texture of the object, a reflector board may be a necessity. This pomegranate (a gift from Amy for my collection) had a harsh shadow because of its irregular shape, and the reflector board brightened up the photograph considerably (maybe even too much?)
The combination of reflector board and appropriate backdrop helped illuminate the notoriously-hard-to-photograph black yarn:
The glossy paper of the label caught a glare from the side flash, but the yarn itself is illuminated well, and you can see the textures of the yarn (a souvenir gift from my sister Mimi – she was recently in New Zealand and brought back these lovely merino wools for me!)
Arrangement of Object / Spatial Considerations / Shadows
The above triptych of the Thai pottery shows three different arrangements – the middle is too close to the camera, as the viewer cannot determine the size and the focal point of the object, while the first fills the frame appropriately. The third image balances the negative space around the object. It is important to note that the eye needs space around the object to fully register what it is. This balance of negative and positive space makes up the balanced composition of the photograph. Some negative space can be attractive to the eye, but too much can be distractive. Experiment with your object’s arrangement to get the proper placement and space. Watch out for odd shadows that an ill-placed object may cast.
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The spoon, in the middle of the photo casts an odd shadow in the first photo, and when it is slightly adjusted for the second photo, it looks much more cohesive.
Effective negative space?
It is an arbitrary question in some ways, but the amount of negative space surrounding these acorns allow the eyes to focus directly on the objects.
Proper Arrangement – Differing Heights
The babushka nesting dolls descend in a predictable manner, but items of different sizes and heights can be grouped together and arranged properly. If the items are indeed a unit, as is the case with these dolls, it is important to show them close to each other. If you were arranging a ball of yarn and needles, you would arrange them in much of the same way – the various objects come together in the photograph to show one cohesive object or process.
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Each photograph is an experiment. Do not become frustrated if it doesn’t work the first time! Digital photography gives us that luxury. I do hope that you have found this tutorial helpful. Please let me know if you decide to construct your own light box! I would love to see your results.
You spend a great deal of time, effort, and money on making your hand knits and your various crafts, why not show them off in the best light possible? 
This is an awesome post. I read something similar on MK Carroll’s blog (mkcarroll.typepad.com) awhile back, but your bringing it up again reminds me that I should try it. I am way to lax with my photographs sometimes.
That was really interesting
I happened along your blog one day while looking for a ballet cardi pattern for my daughter and love it. I’ve been meaning to leave a comment for a while but really felt I had to today cause you have WOOHOO New Zealand merino!! Hope your sister enjoyed visiting our lovely country, you should come and visit! You are a bit more spoilt for choice in your yarns and patterns though, we don’t have nearly as much choice 
Consider yourself lucky!! Bye
this is a great post
Thanks for sharing everything you’ve learnt. I made one of these a couple of years ago, but it didn’t survive moving. You’ve inspired me to make another.
*great* post. thanks for taking the time and effort to put it together — that had to be a lot of work!
i agree about how knitting brings other hobbies out as well. i bought a somewhat inexpensive light tent a couple years ago but i made a bad decision and bought the jumbo size (which is often more than i need). i’m tempted to make your type for the smaller items (i’m thinking it could fold flat to be stored?)
Thank you for this post. I’m often so excited when I have an FO to show off that I don’t take the time to photograph it well. Of course it never looks too good in the picture.
This is a really nice tutorial, Lolly. Thanks. I need to get a good secondary light source and try working with a reflector board. My combination of presentation boards and the natural light coming through my sliding glass door is a little unpredictable. I’ll be bookmarking this post for future reference.
Wow! I’m so impressed. Thanks so much for the tutorial. I never would have imagined that the background would make such a HUGE difference. I know you put a great deal of work into this post – thank you!
oh my gosh, thanks for the amazing tut!! amazing pictures. i’m gonna make me one of these real soon. i was wondering how i was going to take pictures with it being getting too dark to take pictures when i get home from work.
Boy, is this post right on time! I’m in the midst of investigating camera and lens pros and cons, as well as light box options. Thanks for the info.
Thanks so much for the awesome tutorial! I’m always looking for ways to do photographs and you have given some great information here.
Wow! Great post! Thank for the amazing tutorial; loads of information here!
Trust someone to come up with a tutorial that’s WORLDS better than mine, mere days after I post mine!
I said something very similar in mine, too–how interesting it is that one hobby leads to another! My photos were always decent but never very good until I started photographing my handspun yarn on a regular basis. Now I think my photos are quite good, though your tutorial shows a way for me to make them even better.
If you want to check mine out, they’re linked on my blog at the end of the entry called ‘Recovery and Business’. I will definitely be using some of your suggestions (like making a lightbox) to augment my current skills!
AWESOME post Lolly, Thanks so much!! I feel so inspired! I’ve been loving photography the last year or so – in fact blogging has really brought that out in me -like you said, one craft linking to another!! xo
What an excellent tutorial. I don’t think I need a light box just now, but you raise critical points for all kinds of photography. The fussing is always worth it, esp. with digital photography! Many thanks for what has to have taken a lot of effort.
So interesting, thanks for yet again taking the time to go into detail about a fascinating topic!
I love this tutorial and your good/better/best images. I learned a lot and love that you focused on fiber photography
What a great tutorial on it all Lolly! I agree how one hobby morphs into the others. The photography is definitely the next thing that I want to focus on. Thanks for the info!
wow – these are fantastic tips and considerations. I had bookmarked this set for a future purchase, but of course it looks easy enough to do on my own now – and probably a lot more customizable to one’s own needs this way too. Thanks for the tutorial!
what a great post – thanks so much for sharing your tips and techniques. as winter approaches and natural light becomes even more scarce, photography gets more difficult.
Lolly, as you so often do, you’ve created an informative and inspiring post. I’ve been thinking in the last few weeks about striving for more beautiful pictures, and you’ve given me a lot of information to start my journey in that direction. I adore you!!!!
wow — it’s interesting to see the comparison of the objects you shot. i can’t wait to see how your knitting photos change after this…
Great tutorial, thanks!
Thank you so much for this Lolly; I’ll be back to this post often!
Lolly, thank you SO much for this. You’ve definitely cleared up some of the finer points.
Wow, this is hardcore. I can see that you and Kris are both trying to learn the tricks of your camera thoroughly, and you’re getting some good results for it. The lightbox is a great idea, especially as the days will start to be so much shorter soon. Thank you for leading us through the process and giving this valuable information of how to improve our photos. I know I will use it!
you are unbelieveable!! i heart thee. so much. (and yes your haircut, too!) This is great and is going into my bookmarked pages. You’re so fabulous to share this information! Off to collect the Goods.
What a great tutorial. I have toyed with the idea of making a light box, but had never done it. Your tutorial shows how simple it actually is…and inexpensive, too.
Wow, thank you for the tutorial and the demonstrations! I’m going to have rocking photos soon
Lolly – perfect. And so timely. Thank you! I will be reading this over and over.
This is so, helpful, L!! I’ve been thinking about building a light box for a while, and this is a great kick in the pants — such useful info!
great post Lolly! Excellent photos.
Great tutorial Lolly! Thanks for sharing!
This is very cool! Excellent photos!
thank you so much for taking the time to do that – extremely helpful!
very cool. i wish i had the space for a light tent! i barely have room for my stash
what a great tutorial! All the pics came out great – what a difference a little tweaking makes!
What a great tutorial, I just loved reading about this! It’s been on my mind often lately, trying to photograph items to their best potential. Thanks!
What a great post! Thanks Lolly.
Absolutely fabulous post!!!
Awesome tutorial Lolly! Frequently the lack of good light keeps me from posting about a project until it is done. I like the idea of a DIY lightbox. Thanks for sharing!!
Bookmarked! I really need to try making one of those — it looks like a fun project, and I could really use one.
Thanks for this–I’ve been wondering how to do this for a while now. I am definitely going to be revisiting this post!
Great post! I’m inspired to drag out my own light box.
Yeah for gifts from around the world! I love the dolls from Azerbaijan as well.
Great photos.
this is a GREAT tutorial – thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much for this tutorial. I’ve been very unhappy with the quality of my photos of knitting, and I really have been unable to figure out why. You’ve explained it and given me some help for solving those problems.
Thank you for the tutorial and all of the photos with the different backdrops, etc. I’m always looking for ways I can improve my photos. I’ve filed this information away for future use!
Wow! You went over the top on this one! This is so helpful, thanks a bunch!
Great post! I’m inspired enough to go looking for the camera manual pdf and burning it on CD so I can go over to Kinkos to print it out. Need to get better acquainted with my digital camera and with your tips, I think I may well be on my way to better pictures.
Very interesting post. Thanks for sharing!
I love that srobist tut, i found it earlier on in the summer and made one myself. It’s remarkable how well the photos come out when you have some semblance of professional lightbox isnt it?
You rock star. This post exemplifies a few of the many reasons why I love your blog, you and how you contribute to our “little community.” You rock.
Thanks for the tutorial and taking the time to write it.
Thank you so much for this post! This is just what I needed to set one of these up for myself and experiment. Thanks again!
Wow, what a wealth of information. Thank you so much for taking the time to document all of that!
Excellent tutorial and your photos are perfect example of decent, good and best.
thanks so much for the tutorial, Lolly! I’m going to bookmark it for when I get around to making a lightbox!
[...] Jetzt gibt es bei Lolly einen großartigen Artikel mit vielen Tipps, wie man die Fotos noch besser und interessanter gestalten kann. Von der Wahl der richtigen Hintergrundfarbe bis zum geschickten Einsetzen von Reflexionsflächen ist alles genau beschrieben (allerdings auf Englisch). Wer sich fürs Fotografieren interessiert sollte unbedingt mal einen Blick drauf werfen: Weekend Photography Workshop. [...]
Thanks so much for the great tutorial. Love your haircut too! I am ready for Socktoberfest with three socks going.
[...] Weekend Photography Workshop [...]
lolly, thank you so much for this!
i am currently searching for the perfect box!
Your blog is one of the most skill enhancing out there – thanks Lolly for an interesting AND understandable post.
Next weekend I am going to try this out.
What excellent ideas and examples. I’m tempted to make up my own box and try out the techniques. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Lolly,
I’m a staff writer for the Daily Chum and I’d like to link to this post in the column I’m writing and wanted to make sure that’s ok with you.
Thanks.
[...] photos of yarn or FO’s you might try making your own light box or investing in a light tent. LollyKnitting wrote an outstanding tutorial on constructing and using a light box if you want more details. They [...]
Hi Lolly – I teach photography and it’s great to see a tutorial like this helping knit bloggers take better shots of their projects/yarn. There’s nothing more disappointing than seeing poorly lit/exposed/arranged/focussed photos of projects that have otherwise had so much love and care go into them. A few suggestions though – a lot of people don’t seem to understand that different light sources have different colour casts – it’s important if using artificial lights to set the white balance of your camera accordingly (for some AWB just doesn’t cut it). Because of this it’s equally important to try and avoid mixing your light sources – using an artificial light (a lamp) to supplement daylight will result in odd colours (when compared to each other daylight has a cool cast while a lamp, depending on the type of bulb, has a warm cast). The other thing that is important to note is that the camera may not necessarily give you the best exposure for the situation when set on ‘auto’ – setting the camera to slightly over (or under) expose may give you the better shot (richer or more accurate colours, more detail etc.)
cheers
[...] my bloggy travels I have encountered a few tutorials on light boxes. After seeing the new pics at Dyed in the Wool I thought it was time to make my [...]
Fabulous. Thank you. I intend to make one very soon and will be printing out your tutorial as a guide. It’ll help me a lot.
Oh and apparently I was living under a rock – I had never heard of you until tonight via Tessa’s blog. Glad to have found you!
[...] picture is not fantastic. I am using a light box, which is really cool but I need a little more adjustment to my camera (all photographic [...]
[...] other night, Jeff helped me build a light box for taking still-life photos. I saw the idea chez Lolly, and used the tutorial at Strobist.com. It was a snap! I let Jeff do the cutting though, since box [...]
[...] Original post by lolly [...]
[...] usual, the colors don’t show true. Wish I had the room here for a fancy lightbox, a la Lolly, but I don’t!! Until that day, I’ll do the best I can. (and keep the location of [...]
This is such a great tutorial. I’ll try this and post the results at my blog.
I love your blog.
Wow this is incredibly helpful! Thank you so much!
[...] for quite some time), but want to know about when and where. Lolly has written a great post about making a lightbox and although I don’t have one, I appreciate her generosity. In the same spirit, I’ll [...]
[...] for quite some time), but want to know about when and where. Lolly has written a great post about making a lightbox and although I don’t have one, I appreciate her generosity. In the same spirit, I’ll [...]