Another DIY light box, with build and test pics

My quickest advice is to shoot in manual mode with a tripod, start off with an exposure value of +1, and then take 6-8 shots with a 1/3 stop slower shutter speed each time to increase the exposure value for each successive shot. Then pick the best photo and process it in the software. I'm not sure there's a way to get around post processing unless you really know what you're doing which I don't.

You dont need any live info if yu use the same equipment all the time. Same lights same tent etc etc. Such as I know I need 1 to 1.5 stops of overexposure in my setup to get the subject exposed right. I basically set the Exp Comp to +1 and start shooting. I check it to fine adjust it and Im off. No PP needed to make it white. The camera and lights take care if it automatically. Just do as suggested above and ignore the meter. You want the subject right. Find the exposure you need.When it is correct most likley the background wil be blown out automatically. If you always use the same stuff just remember the Exp Comp and set the camera next time.

More About My Setup, If Anyone Is Interested.

A couple of people have sent private messages asking about my setup, so Here's a little more info with a few quick snapshots. I got some plain white foam boards from Michael's (marked down to $1.00 USD apiece) and some white cardboard paper in several different colors. I prolly coulda gotten somethin' cheaper than cardboard paper, but it seems to be working. (Hint: save your money and don't get black cardboard paper. It'll look like crap and won't come out black at all! )

Then I went to Home Depot and got some o' these guys to attach the white foam boards together:

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In a studio, I'd shoot & chimp the histogram. Outside, I use this: Need an exposure crutch?

Here's a quick'ish example of a low-key watch shot with a black velvet background...

...and yes I now realise I should have set the hands to 10.20 o'clock! Also picked up a replacement watch the other weekend so now have a plastic strap shaper device with which to hold the watch in place better.

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Actually 10:10. But we know what you mean. On this monitor (at work) there seens to be no white. It is all gray. But I like the shot a lot.

made a new one today.

this is just on camera flash

That is not bad at all for on-camera flash! Probably because it is flat black.

I'll bet you can make it look better! Try a light film of oil on it & the knife & Browning threads here:
FAQ - Studio Lighting

I think I like this one better.

Been reading this thread for a couple days now, and put my box together using the foam core, and the orange box light method. Used custom white balance and this is my FIRST shot using the 30D and Sigma 30 1.4

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OK I went walmart cheap with my lightbox..lol. It's not that bad though.. I now know I need brighter lights...and more practice.

Second attempt with the DIY lightbox...

EF 100-400L

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Very impressive.

How do you meter your exposures to get the background evenly whitened?

Indeed - very impressive (the pictures as well as the lens collection)

What paper have you used for the background - the slight shadow at the bottom looks grainy which might be the paper texture ?