Inexpensive Modular Photo Studio Stands

This Instructable shows to make 4 expandable/collapsible lighting stands and 2 expandable/collapsible backdrop stands inexpensively ($50 or less depending on how resourceful you are).

I got the idea from this video, but I wasn't keen on the idea of storing an 8' tall stick in a can even if 8' might be nice to have as an option.  These I can easily store in a closet.

If you want something a bit more beefy/potentially taller, use larger buckets, more cement, and more wood.

 

Step 1 Materials

Materials:
-9 Furring Boards (1"x2"x8')
-6 Buckets (4-5qt)
-Saw and Miter Box
-Gloves
-Latex Gloves (not shown)
-Rubber boots
-Mask
-Tape Measure
-Masking Tape
-Scissors
-Pencil
-100lbs of Cement (2 x 50lb bags)
-Hose (or full watering can; not shown)
-Piece of wood for mixing (not shown)
-Junk Cup/Can (shown later)
-Level (not shown)
-12 2" Mending Plates (not shown)
-Screws (or bolts with washers and nuts; not shown)
-Drill and Drill Bits (not shown)
-Sander (not shown)
-3/8" Dowel Rod (not shown)
-5" lengths of Bamboo (or 1/4" dowel rod; not shown)
-Rubber mallet (not shown)

 

Comments

[bajablue]

1st: That's the most interesting pair of Rubber Boots I've ever seen.

2nd: Thanks for another great ible. I'm trying to improve my photography skills and I've found your ideas immensely helpful!

Thanks!

[qman007]

as this is a great idea on the cheap, something like these aren't that portable. I couldn't imagine lugging 2 backdrop stands and 3-4 light stands to a wedding.

[piperjon]

OOOO!!! These are so cool! I really want to make some cool backdrops that I have ideas for, but haven't really settled on anything yet on which to hang them. I love this idea! You rock, sista girl! - Pj

[J@50n]

 u should use some spray paint or put some finish on them so they last longer!

[AngryRedhead]

You can use some wood oil finish to prevent the wood from becoming brittle and splintering, but it's up to you and how you use/store the stands.  So long as you aren't leaving them outside, you're probably fine for a decade or so without any finish.

 

[scoochmaroo]

Show me how you use them!  I want in-process pictures :D

[AngryRedhead]

I sorta hoped I could get away with just the inspiration video for now since my house is a wreck right now.  :-P

 

[scoochmaroo]

Ok, ok. 
Next time!

[Jayefuu]

I'm with Scooch! (please? :D )

[yokozuna]

Not sure if I mean the same thing as Scooch, but I'm curious what backgrounds you have/use and if they were bought or DIY.

[AngryRedhead]

Should I post an Instructable of a backdrop I'm going to make and submit some photos of the modular studio in action?

 

[yokozuna]

Absolutely!  I cite the first rule of Kiteman. :)

[AngryRedhead]

Oh my gosh, I don't know what that means.  I joined a little over a month ago.  Is there a whole set of rules?

 

[Jayefuu]

Rule 1) If you think of it, instructablise it.

I can't find the forum post now, I don't think that's quite what Kiteman said but it's similar.

[AngryRedhead]

I will, but today is "moving all the crap out of the closet and into the living room so we can install closet organizers and hopefully get this wreck under some sort of control" day.  Tomorrow might not be any better, but hope springs eternal.  :-P

 

[Jayefuu]

Eughhh. That day's the worst.