Lightboxes not only soften the light being cast on an object, but they often provide the right background as well. Other things to consider in a soft light box include multiple backdrops, and interior space. If you just want a lightbox, we think you should just buy The Fositan Photo Box. It can’t teach all the skills needed to be a good photographer, but it can help you get enough light for a great image, which is why it’s our top pick for the best photo box. Our experts have looked at many lightboxes, and we have our other picks below. The photo box comes with a case for easy transportation, but it does take a while to set up and take down, so budget your time appropriately. The box has integrated, step-less, dimmable lighting, which is a nice bonus, along with the four colored backdrops that ensure you can get the exact shot you’re looking for. There’s a lot to like here. Dimensions: 90 x 90 x 90 cm | Weight: 17 pounds | Color temperature: 5,500 +/- 200K | Wattage: Not specified You get a lightbox, backdrops, lights, and a phone tripod and holder, which all packs away into a neat carrying case. Keep in mind: It seems the background fabric easily wrinkles (so you’d have to iron it) and the spotlights aren’t the brightest. If those two marks don’t worry you, this kit is a bargain. Dimensions: 17.5 x 3.7 x 17.75 inches | Weight: 4.09 pounds | Color Temperature: Not specified | Wattage: 75W For added versatility, you can shoot from the top or the side. This is a very compact size and, because the two sets of lights are USB powered, you can use a wall adapter or a portable battery to light up your item. And, heck, it’s pretty cheap. Dimensions: 9 x 9 x 9 inches | Weight: 350 grams | Color Temperature: 6000 to 6500K | Wattage: 7.5W Now, the lower price comes at a cost: There’s no carrying case for all these pieces and the light stands can tip over easily. Overall, this a good kit if you are starting with nothing other than a camera. Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 12 inches | Weight: 8 pounds | Color Temperature: 5500 to 5600K | Wattage: 300W Now, the Foldio3 is more expensive than the StudioPro, but, come on—it’s got a turntable. That’s super handy for some images and can make quite a bit of difference in your final shot (or animated gif). Plus, thanks to its Bluetooth controller, you won’t have to keep touching the object and risk fingerprints or knocking it over. Dimensions: 25 x 25 x 22 inches | Weight: 7.28 pounds | Color Temperature: 5700K | Wattage: Not specified The box itself is made of thin plastic and held together with velcro, so we’re not talking about a rock-solid build quality here. There’s an included light that has an admittedly short cord, so remember to keep an extension cord in your gear bag. But overall, as long as your items are not too large, this is a great inexpensive option that will help you capture amazing product photos. Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches | Weight: 7.7 ounces | Color Temperature: Not specified | Wattage: 3.5W The MyStudio MS line of photo boxes comes in a variety of sides, but we’re recommending the MS20PRO because we think it’ll meet the needs of most people most of the time. Because there are other sizes, you can make the final decision. Its seamless background, powerful lights, and the included bounce cards make this the best photo studio box to have. Dimensions: 30 x 28 x 18 inches | Weight: 7 pounds | Color Temperature: 500K | Wattage: Not specified
Accessories
If you need a little more flexibility in your lighting setup, some lightboxes come packaged with a variety of accessories to let you fine-tune your lighting environments, such as different backdrops or supplementary lighting.
Portability
Much of this will have to do with the size of the lightbox you choose and whether you have a dedicated space for photography, but having a lightbox that makes it easier to set up and break down will give you greater flexibility in where you can stage your photos.
About Our Trusted Experts
Katie Dundas is a freelance writer and journalist who has been covering tech for several years. She’s also an avid photographer and a digital camera expert.
