How to get the best light on an oversized item?

[cushncovers]

I take both my pictures for my listing and ship my items the same day. My items are all custom made and bigger than a piece of jewelry. : ) I live in MN so sometimes natural light is not available. And....too cold outside to step onto the deck to take a picture even if a sunny day. . I make large cushions. Can someone give me an idea for good lighting. I though of bringing a shop light in or one on a stand. Thanks for any help.

[Former_Member]

I use 3 work lights (bought at Home Depot for about 7 bucks each) clamped to the back of three chairs and then I just direct them at the piece of clothing I'm shooting. Then I go to FotoFuze.com and 'clean them up'. I also do composites on pixlr.com. Here is an example:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/112509639/spring-sale-1960s-trench-coat-london-fog?ref=shop_home_active

It's not perfect but it works for the moment. I hope this helps.

[Former_Member]

I have these long banners that have been a challenge at times. However, I live in The Sunshine State, so lighting isn't normally an issue.

This listing looks great, as far as the lighting goes. The only thing I would do is change the background. It would benefit you to get something that allows you to take the photo from a distance and not be distracting. I use a big piece of plywood that's painted white. Then I use fotofuze.com (that's just a preference though).
http://www.etsy.com/listing/123666202/bench-seat-cushioncustom-65-x-18-x-3-use?ref=shop_home_active

I also photograph inside. I use the window and a floor lamp. I'm sure this is not the most "proper" way, but it seems to work. I just try not to point the light right on the item or it creates a harsh shadow.

Hope this helps!
Here are some threads you may have already read:
http://www.etsy.com/forums_search.php?search_query=photograph+large+items&search_type=title&ref=foru...
http://www.etsy.com/forums_search.php?search_query=pictures+large+items&search_type=title&ref=forums...

[cushncovers]

Thank you Sandra and Jenni. I wish I could redo some of these photos but the cushions are gone. Your tips and advice will help so much. I do appreciate. Maybe NOT using a flash on the camera will help with the shadows too.

I take these in my porch, which is my brightest room. I throw down a black cloth on the table for the lighter cushions, and a light cloth, usually for the darker ones. I have two ugly sofas I want to either replace or slipcover so, yes, and my desk, many things to distract. The white board sounds good if it is light weight and portable. I will give hubby a project now.

Thanks again!

[cushncovers]

Hi Jenni,

Thank you for the links...I never read those before. Good ideas.