- 1). Decide on a size for your light tent. A recommended starting point is 24 inches wide, by 20 inches deep, by 12 inches high. If you plan to shoot only small objects such as coins, you can make the dimensions smaller and use 1/2-inch CPVC. Larger setups may work better with larger diameter pipe.
- 2). Cut two pieces of CPVC of equal length for the width of your small product tent. A tee fitting will be placed on each end, as will a street elbow, so factor this length into your total, approximately four inches on each side, depending on the pipe size used. Dry fit tees on each end of both pieces, with the side openings of the tees facing the same direction. Place these assemblies so the tee openings face each other. Dry fit a street elbow into the end of each assembly, with the elbow's open end pointing up.
- 3). Cut two pieces of CPVC of equal length for the depth of your light tent. These pieces will be crossbars between the tees on the width assemblies. Dry fit these pieces into the tees. Make sure the pipe pieces lay flat, and use a square to assure the elbows are perpendicular to the frame. Glue each of the joints together using PVC cement, returning each piece to its dry-fit position.
- 4). Cut four CPVC pieces of equal length for legs to establish the height of the light tent. Glue the center opening of the remaining tees to one end of each leg. Orientation is not important. Dry fit a leg into each elbow on the upper frame. Flip the frame so that the tees on the legs support the structure. You may glue the legs to the frame if you want a permanent frame; however, pressure fitting the legs allows for easy storage.
- 5). Orient the frame with a wide opening toward the camera position. Use tape to attach bristol board to the back crosspiece. Tape the front end of the bristol board to the table to provide a smooth, seamless curve to serve as a background.
- 6). Arrange the sheet over the top and sides of the frame. You can cut the sheet to size, making several pieces. Using extra layers on one side can give you easy control of lighting ratios. Fasten the sheets with clamps if necessary.
- 7). Arrange table lamps around the outside of your small product light tent to provide illumination. Different bulb types and colors will produce various effects. Starting with a full-spectrum bulb will give the best overall white balance. Try a small quartz halogen bulb for spot effects with more reflective highlights.
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