Essentials for the DIY Cardboard In the Box Photoshoot

Are you looking to take your in-the-box cardboard photo shoots to the next level? Viral TikTok and Instagram-worthy shots don’t just happen—they’re crafted with creativity and the right gear. Whether you’re going for a clean aesthetic or a funky, eye-catching vibe, having the proper tools can make all the difference. Here’s a list of must-have gear to elevate your cardboard box photo sessions and wow your audience.

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1. The Perfect Tripod A steady tripod is a non-negotiable for crisp, professional-looking photos. Look for one with adjustable height and a phone holder that rotates 360 degrees. Bonus points if it comes with a Bluetooth remote, so you can snap away without needing an extra set of hands. Check out this top-rated tripod on Amazon.

2. Lighting Kits for That Perfect GlowLighting is everything! Ring lights and LCD panel lights are favorites among creators because they provide soft, even illumination that eliminates harsh shadows. For more dramatic effects, consider RGB lighting kits that let you play with colors to match your theme. Shop this highly-rated lighting kit here.

3. Grab a Cardboard BoxThe star of your photo shoot is, of course, the box itself! You can buy sturdy boxes from local retailers or simply repurpose one from your latest delivery. Make sure it’s in good condition with no major dents or tears for the best results. You can also purchase a sturdy one here: Check out our favorite box to shoot in here. 

4. Photo Props and AccessoriesAdd some flair to your setup with props like fairy lights, faux greenery, or themed items that match your cardboard box aesthetic. These small details can turn a good photo into a great one. Check out our favorite photo props here.

5. Phone Mounts for Tight AnglesCapturing unique angles inside a cardboard box can be tricky. A flexible phone mount with a gooseneck design allows you to get those tight, creative shots. Look for one that clamps onto any surface for maximum versatility. Browse flexible phone mounts here.

6. Editing Apps While not physical gear, editing apps are an essential part of the process. My go to is of course Photoshop, but that is not the most user friendly. Lately, and especially for my DIY photography, I LOVE Canva! Check out this video that shows you how I edit the cardboard box using Canva: 

7. Photo Templates: One of the items that makes editing easier and gives more creative options is using a template. Photo Box Designs offers a great selection of Cardboard Box templates. Browse templates here.

If you are a photographer and are interested in learning the process of photographing in the box and talking with other creative, like minded people, then consider joining the THRIVING Facebook Page: INSIDE THE PHOTO BOX PHOTOGRAPHY AND PHOTOSHOP. This is the largest Box Photography Page on Facebook, with over 20,000 members learning Box Photography! Isn't that amazing! 

Photo Box Designs and the Facebook Group "Inside the Photo Box" also give away a FREE 3 BOX TEMPLATE along with guidelines on how to build the box and edit the photos. Grab your FREE template here: Photo Box Designs Store.

Join here: Inside the Photo Box Photography and Photoshop
I hope you enjoyed this blog post and found it helpful in your endeavor to create amazing Box Photography Composites!!
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