I have been considering getting a soft box kit for photograp...

I have been considering getting a soft box kit for photographing jewelry, and am wondering if its not possible to rig something together that would give me the same effect out of white paper and white fabric, thus defusing daylight, using different little lamps for a little extra contrast or light were I need it, lighting through the construction. What do you think?

Try this link: http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/07/how-to-diy-10- macro-photo-studio.html

Jim, I will be forever in your debt
I just skimmed the posts, but it is exactly what I was looking for, including some instruction on the use of lights. Thanks you so much

You're welcome. Glad to help.

I made my light box this afternoon. I had some gift bags made of plastic that are semi-opaque that I used instead of tissue paper. I think they'll last longer than paper. I took a pic of an orange. My light source was the light from my slide sorter (old timey one)with the cover off and another desk-type light on the other side, no flash. Came out OK. Will post later after I play with it some more. So, thanks! You guys rock! This will be fun when my new camera gets here and its to cold to play outdoors.

I agree! Way too cold.
Can't wait to see the pictures

You can also light it with clamp lights, like they sell in the hardware store or home depot. They are only $5-$10 each and use regular household bulbs.

I do need to work on my light sources. The pic of the orange has some pink light b/c of the shade on the desk lamp I used. I used my Sony point and shoot digital. Can't wait till my new camera arrives.

http://s291.photobucket.com/albums/ll318/donnacsmith/ lightbox/

Your critiques are welcome. I have been writing long enough i can take it;o)

Looks good. You're on your way. Now to just work out the small details.
From the pictures, it looks like the diffusion plastic is almost clear. A more diffused material will disperse the light more evenly and lights of equal intensity will help minimize shadows.

Oh, OK. What if I tape the tissue paper over the plastic? I did this with the camera flash off - do I have the right idea there?

And on the opposite end - if I line the box with black velvet and shoot with flash from front can I get the effect I get when I photo a horse in the barn doorway with all the windows and back door closed. I get a nice portrait with black background when I photo a horse this way.

Camera flash off, yes. You can try the tissue paper also. In the past I used mylar drafting film, available at art or drafting supply places.
I just found Vellum Drawing Paper at Staples. $11 a package.
As far as the horse, you'll need a much bigger box!!
I would try just like you did, but substitute the white paper background with black velvet. Black velvet reflects very little light. It should stay pretty dark.
Experiment, that's the beauty of digital. Move the lights closer, then farther away. Move more to the front. Go ahead, try your flash. You'll see it's a harsh light, and will probably cast shadows. The idea of the light tent is soft even lighting.
Black velvet- just in the back of the box, as a background.

Thank you, Jim. Will try all of those suggestions. FUN!

This pic of the mule is an example of using the barn for the box. Close all the windows and doors (except the one where the subject is standing) and turn off the lights in the barn.

(is shameless self book promotion allowed?)

Every time I look at this photo I want to straighten the nose band on the halter. Bugs the heck out me.

I take it your talking about photographing small objects in a light box and trying to get the effect in the picture. Right? Line the inside of the box with black velvet or even black spray paint. I'd use available light coming from behind me, such as a window, so face it (the opening of the box) towards the window. Just as you did in the other picture, but substitute the box for the barn. Move the box closer or farther away from the window to control your light.
The box you made with the tracing paper is used for "high key" lighting, where there are no shadows in a bright environment. You're doing the opposite now.

"(is shameless self book promotion allowed?)"

Rule 2: Do not spam. No blatant promotion, neither commercial nor non-commercial. No spamming, link-spamming or transmitting malware and viruses. If you want to advertise, do it on the Compare Deals section.

I don't think you crossed that line. The book cover is just an example of what you're trying to do.

BTW:Nice shot.

Out of about a dozen I got one picture with white background. The others are like the second photo. I don't know what I did different with the first one. I had only light on the right. The last one I tried light on both sides.

If you only got one with a white background, what colors were the rest.

What camera are you using?
Did you set the white balance?
Did you try exposure compensation? +1/2, +1? If you are using the "auto" mode the camera can't tell it's a white background. It wants to make it middle gray. Increase your exposure.

In the picture you posted you have uneven lighting. More light coming from the right. Light it from both sides. Use the same wattage bulbs, the same type of bulbs.

Off white/yellowish. I am using the old point and shoot Sony Mavica. My new camera still has not arrived. So, I'll just leave ya'll alone until I get the new one. I like the photos that are off-white though. This exercise has been a lot of fun.

I will keep note of all your tips and REALLY appreciate your time in helping me.

No problem. It must be frustrating waiting so long for your camera.
Hope you get it soon.