My Self-Tape Setup
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This is the setup I use and recommend to every actor I coach. It's simple, it's affordable, and it gives you soft, flattering light without a studio. Build it once and you can tape anytime, without hunting for a free room or a good window.
The Light
White Paper Lantern
Hang it from the ceiling and it casts the most beautiful soft, even light, with no harsh shadows. This is the heart of the setup.
Pendant Cord with Bulb Socket
Powers the lantern. Drape it over a ceiling fan or run it to a ceiling hook and plug it into the wall.
Light Bulbs in Different Tones
Warmer or cooler: choose the tone that looks best with your skin. Test a couple on camera before you commit. (LED bulbs stay cool inside the paper.)
Damage-Free Ceiling Hooks
Hang the lantern exactly where you need it, without wrecking your ceiling (or your security deposit).
The Setup
Backdrop
A double sided background so casting watches you, not your room. Skip stark white; pick a color that works with your skin tone.
Rolling Cart
Stores all your gear in one place and doubles as an easy, adjustable spot for your camera or phone.
On Camera
Translucent Setting Powder
Takes the shine off under the lights, so the camera sees your face, not the glare. Invisible on camera.
Putting It Together
Hang the lantern from the ceiling, a little in front of you and just above eye level, so the light falls softly on your face.
Set up your backdrop behind you, with a little space between you and it so you don't cast a shadow on it. You can use the wall hooks for this too!
Put your camera on the cart at eye level, lens slightly above your eyes.
Do a test take. Check for shine, shadows under the eyes, and how your skin tone reads, then adjust the bulb or the lantern height.
Questions about your setup? Bring them to our next session.
— Adria