How to Use Desk Lamps for Pro Product Shots with the Light Cone

When it comes to product photography, lighting can make or break your shot. However, achieving professional-quality images doesn’t always require expensive studio lights. In fact, with our Light Cone by Karl Taylor, you can create stunning, reflection-free product shots using something as simple as desk lamps.

Why the Light Cone Works

The Light Cone is designed to eliminate unwanted reflections and hot spots when shooting shiny or reflective products. It wraps around your subject, diffusing light evenly across the surface and ensuring a clean, professional result. Typically used with studio lights, the Light Cone is surprisingly versatile and can also work wonders with everyday desk lamps.

Setting Up with Desk Lamps

Here’s how you can use the Light Cone with basic desk lamps to achieve a high-quality shot:

1. Position the Light Cone: Place the Light Cone over your product. This creates a 360-degree soft light effect around your object, minimizing harsh reflections.

2. Arrange Desk Lamps: Use two or more desk lamps and position them around the Light Cone at different angles. Make sure to aim the light through the sides of the cone, so the light is diffused evenly across your product.

3. Adjust Intensity and Distance: If your lamps have adjustable brightness, experiment with different levels. You can also move them closer or farther away to control the light's softness.

4. Camera Settings: Use manual settings on your camera to have control over the exposure. Lower the ISO for a cleaner image, and adjust your shutter speed to balance the light from the desk lamps.

Why It’s a Game-Changer

This setup is perfect for photographers working with limited equipment or those looking to achieve professional results on a budget. Desk lamps are affordable, accessible, and, when paired with the Light Cone, they provide high-quality, diffused light that works for almost any product photography session.

With the Light Cone, even everyday lighting tools like desk lamps can be transformed into powerful photographic tools, allowing you to capture clean, reflection-free images of any product.