HOW-TO: Still life lighting 101- Basic terms & a cardboard cove

Starting out with still life/ small object table-top photography doesn't have to be expensive. Sometimes the simplest designs work out the best. Here is a simple, economical solution to window light tabletop still life photography.

Here's HOW:

• Cut open one end of a cardboard box and attach seamless paper to form a cove. Using a cove eliminates the distracting horizontal line formed where the vertical and horizontal surface meet.

• Position the box, with side open and seamless paper in place on a chair, table, or stand that is lower than a window.

• Select an object that is not too small or too large for the set. Avoid glassware and reflective objects — these require other lighting techniques.

• Keep the composition simple — one or two items only.

• Turn off the room lights. Window light should be the only source of light. You may find that the form and cast shadows are too dark. Use a white matte board or white foam board as a reflector to fill in the dark shadows and provide a fill light.

• Use a tripod and bracket your exposure.