Ikea is best known for its affordable living arrangements, but along with its reputation as a home furnishings company, it is also regarded as the go-to retailer for cheap DIY hacks using preexisting components.
A case in point is this clever little product photography setup made from an $8 side table. As shown in DSLR Video Shooter‘s latest video, Ikea’s popular Lack table can rather easily be turned into a product photo booth with only a few other pieces. With it, you can photograph your Ebay or Etsy wares that make them shine.
In addition to the table (the white version, to be specific), which can either be bought in-store or online, you will need a generous piece of white-foam core, some poster board, and a light. You will also need a pair of scissors or a box cutter for cutting the foam core.
Once you have all of the components, it’s time to get to work. As explained in the video, you’ll first need to make sure the Lack table is constructed with only three of the legs attached. Once you have it built with the three legs, it’s on to attaching the background and cutting the foam core.
Using the color of your choosing, attach a piece of paper — often referred to as a seamless — to the back of the Lack table and underneath it.
Then, with a sharp object, cut the foam core in such a way that you’ll have individual pieces that can be mounted on the underside of the table, as well as on both sides of the platform where the product will be sitting. This can be done in a dozen different ways depending your specific setup, but overall, make sure to create an even wrap around the area where the product will be sitting to achieve a clean, soft light.
Speaking of the light, almost anything will do: an LED panel, a speed light, or even an incandescent bulb. Simply place the light — or lights — in the area of your choosing, make sure it’s secure, and adjust the foam core accordingly.
It might take some time to get the lighting just right, but for roughly $10 after it’s all said and done, it’s a solid setup that can easily be disguised as an end table when not in use.
