...

How to Make a Cylindrical Illuminator for a Road Shooting

Examples of such illuminator are LitePipe P and SaberStrip models, which are used when shooting portraits. Because of their shape, they have a number of advantages over standard softboxes and umbrellas: these lights are easy to install in tight spaces, they are more mobile and more stable in windy conditions. Photographer Joe Edelman offers a DIY version of a similar illuminator that’s easy to assemble and much less expensive than production models.

Flashes

In addition to on location shooting, these illuminators can also be used in the studio. Joe Edelman based his version on the SaberStrip, which uses a standard flash as its light source.

Here’s a list of the materials you’ll need to assemble them:

1. A 76.2mm diameter and 1,524mm long mailing tube with end caps tube length may be shorter

2. Velcro strips for securing the flash

3. A sheet of white translucent plastic film

4. Gaffa masking tape in black matte or similar

5. 1/4″-20 screw, two washers

6. Tripod adapter

7. Super Glue

8. Glossy white spray paint

Assembly steps

The first thing to do is to cut out a part of the tube according to the following pattern:

Photo equipment

After everything is cut out, the inside of the tube is coated with white glossy paint. The resulting white surface helps create a cleaner light without the yellowish tint of the cardboard. Once the paint dries, the tube can be taped over with Gaffa tape. You can also use black paint for this, but it will be much faster with tape.

Next, you need to secure Velcro ties on the back of the tube with superglue. Since the glue dries quickly, you can attach the flash in a few seconds and begin to find the center of gravity of the resulting system. To do this, you can put the tube on your finger and find the point at which the equilibrium position is reached. At this point you need to make a hole and install a 1/4″-20 screw and screw on a tripod adapter. Washers are pre-installed in the areas where the screw and adapter will be in contact with the surface of the tube.

Photo equipment

The final step is to cut a strip of the required size from the translucent plastic film. The strip should be bent and placed inside the tube, where it is fixed after straightening. If necessary, the strip can also be glued with superglue if it is not expected to be replaced in the future. Once the film is in place, the front of the tube is closed with the end cap.

Photo equipment

Flash units

Installation of this illuminator is possible in horizontal and vertical positions and also at different angles if you use an umbrella holder. Also, you don’t have to remove the flash every time you want to change settings because all the controls are easily accessible.

For more on the assembly, check out Joe Edelman’s video, available at: youtube.com/watch?v=fzeDGV7K0-M

Here are examples of photos taken using this version of the illuminator:

Tripods

Photo equipment

Flashes

Flashlights

Rate this article
( No ratings yet )
John Techno

Greetings, everyone! I am John Techno, and my expedition in the realm of household appliances has been a thrilling adventure spanning over 30 years. What began as a curiosity about the mechanics of these everyday marvels transformed into a fulfilling career journey.

Home appliances. Televisions. Computers. Photo equipment. Reviews and tests. How to choose and buy.
Comments: 3
  1. Everly

    What are the necessary steps and materials required to create a cylindrical illuminator for road shooting?

    Reply
    1. Magnolia

      To create a cylindrical illuminator for road shooting, you will need several necessary steps and materials.

      First, gather the following materials: a cylindrical tube (preferably made of aluminum for durability), LED strips or individual LEDs, a power source (such as a battery pack or power supply), wiring, a switch, and mounting brackets.

      Next, measure and cut the cylindrical tube to the desired length. Make sure it is wide enough to house the LED strips or individual LEDs comfortably.

      Then, attach the LED strips or individual LEDs onto the inside of the cylindrical tube using an adhesive or brackets. Ensure that they are evenly spaced and provide sufficient illumination for road shooting.

      Afterwards, connect the LEDs to the power source using wiring. Ensure the wiring is secure and properly insulated to prevent any electrical issues.

      Once the wiring is complete, install a switch on the exterior of the cylindrical illuminator. This will allow you to easily turn the illuminator on and off.

      Finally, mount the cylindrical illuminator onto your road shooting equipment using the mounting brackets. Make sure it is secured properly to avoid any movement or vibrations while shooting.

      In summary, the necessary steps and materials to create a cylindrical illuminator for road shooting include: measuring and cutting the cylindrical tube, attaching LED strips or individual LEDs, connecting wiring to the power source, installing a switch, and mounting the illuminator onto the shooting equipment.

      Reply
  2. Mia Bennett

    Could someone please provide instructions on how to create a cylindrical illuminator specifically for road shooting? I am interested in learning how to make one myself. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

    Reply
Add Comments