Setup for product photography

[soboyle]

I'm looking for advice on a setup for product photography, a minimal (read inexpensive) setup.
I'll be shooting many different small objects, from jewelry to dolls, dried flower arrangements
to christmas decorations. I realize that jewelry photography can get very specialized, but what I will be shooting is estate/inexpensive jewelry, so no need for a special setup.
So I am looking for a white background setup, and a simple lighting arrangement.
I have a canon 5DII, and many lenses including the 90 TSE.
Any thoughts on a simple and not overly expensive setup for this?
150-200 W Monolight setup with umbrella? Direct lighting?
Cheap background setup? Doesn't need to be too large.
Can it be done for under $200?

[David Saffir]

One old trick that you can try is get some white ripstop nylon from the fabric store. Buy a big square piece.

You'll use it to make a "light tent". You can attach one string right in the center, and pull it up to make a kind of teepee. Or you can use several to adjust size and position. Total cost should be less than 10 dollars. Be careful with lighting that gets hot - don't burn it up!

David

[tokengirl]

Can it be done for under $200?

You bet.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/4374...nt_2_Light.html

the background materials are pretty cheezy (construction paper), but it gets the job done.



For additional background materials for small objects, you might want to visit a craft store that sells scrap-booking materials.  They sell 12" x 12" papers with all sorts of interesting textures, patterns and colors.