Another DIY option for photos is to create a light box or softbox for yourself. Soft lighting is best; fluorescent lighting is too harsh. (My pictures aren't great at this point, but I grew up with a family of professional studio photographers...so I know better! Haha.)
Creating a white or neutral colored background is also helpful to define your object. Use white beadboard, white linen, white wall with white floor (or other colors that suit your taste). To get the right lighting, you can rig a light box and/or reflector for yourself. To make the light box you can take something as simple as a larger cardboard box with the bottom cut out or a handmade wooden frame (not a photo frame...think fat box), and staple a bright white cloth over one of the open sides. In the other open side place your light source. You can get creative with this, such as suspension from ceilings, simply setting your creation on a surface, or attaching it to a tripod. Using this bright, soft light for your photos will make them more appealing.
Also, the reflector can be used in conjunction with the softbox. If your object is in the center and the softbox is on your right, for example, you will want to place the reflector on the left. This will let light from your softbox (or natural window light) bounce onto the object. Experiment with reflective surfaces: you can use a mirror, tin foil, white foam board, etc.
You don't need to go outside to get natural-looking or soft and illuminating light. You can produce lovely light at home, indoors, even when it's stormy. :) Good luck!
