My "Zero-Budget" Softbox for Professional Photos

I recently invested in some basic equipment to improve my product photography for my MakerWorld and Printables models. While the LED light panel I got is bright, the light was too harsh and created strong reflections.

Professional softboxes are expensive, so I decided to design and build my own using the tools I have: my 3D printer and some basic materials.

This project uses 3D-printed brackets to create a lightweight but sturdy frame for a DIY softbox. The walls are made from simple cardboard, and the front diffuser is a basic white fabric which is fixed with thumbtacks to the cardboard.

I hope this helps other makers on a budget to elevate their product photography!

What You'll Need (BOM): 3D-Printed Parts:

• 1x SoftboxMale.3mf
• 1x SoftboxFemale.3mf
• 6x Fixture 6x.3mf

Non-Printed Parts:

• Cardboard for the 4 side walls.
• A piece of white, translucent fabric (an old white t-shirt, a bedsheet, or baking parchment paper works well).
• Aluminum foil to line the inside walls.
• 6x Heated inserts for M3 screws, 6mm long.
• Hot glue or strong tape to assemble everything.
• I bought this light from Aliexpress