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09/05/2014 09:35:22 AM · #1 |
For most photos I like to use natural light. But when I need to light a subject, I don't haven anything really. So I use a 50W halogen desk lamp and a powerful LED torch. I don't have money for lights and I don't have much space either. So I've been wanting to build some continuous light (my DIY skills are ok). The other day I decided to build the light. Cost me R100 (about $9), some pieces of wood lying around and some electrical wire and a plug I also had lying around (took me all of half an hour to put together). I'll try post a picture of the light - it's a 230W halogen flood light (I can put in a 500W bulb if I want). I'm also planning on adding a dimmer to it.
I made it with the intention of attaching a diffuser so that I can get softer light too. I must say it's really nice to have this light! It works very well. I'll use it as my key light and the desk lamp as the secondary light. Now I must do some learning how to use it. Oh, and if I was to buy a similar halogen light at the local photography shop (300W), it would have cost me R3300 (about $310), so you could say I saved a bit. |
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09/05/2014 10:06:28 AM · #2 |
| to be honest, you'd be better off taking the strobist approach. for $50 you can get a cheap flash with a stand and umbrella and the light will be more portable and be easier to work with and easier to color balance. |
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09/05/2014 11:26:11 AM · #3 |
| I admire your initiative and DIY-ness. It's a good place to start for learning light use and placement. Once you get used to using them, you will run into their limitations and may get frustrated. Although I couldn't get used to flashes (I went with studio lights), Mike is right about their value, portability, etc. Once you have a better idea of what you need (power-wise, etc.), you'll be able to do a more targeted search for equipment. |
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09/05/2014 11:29:29 AM · #4 |
| Thanks. Yes, I agree with all that's been said. I want to get a flash. I like using continuous, but a flash is portable and will provide better light. There is one big problem for me though; I can't spend the $50 on the flash right now... :D |
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09/05/2014 12:43:54 PM · #5 |
| If you add a dimmer, the light will become more and more orange as it's dimmed. With two lights at different color temps, you'll never get them to balance right. If you're shooting B&W...no worries. Otherwise, big headaches. I understand that you don't have $$$ for lights, but I suggest saving what you can for flash. Just don't go too far down this road and expect great results. |
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