Abstract: A photographic lighting apparatus (100) comprising a plurality of panels (101), each panel (101) being separated from adjacent panels on each side by flexible webs (102) such that the panels and webs define a wall of an enclosure (100), and a removable strut (117) associated with each web for maintaining the panels in mutually fixed relation, the enclosure having an opening (103) at a proximal end adapted to be mounted to a light source with proximal edges of at least some of the panels being weight-bearing members for the apparatus, and a distal end of the enclosure (104) being adapted to transmit light therefrom.

Abstract: A method of photographing an object (50,52) and associated photographic apparatus are disclosed. A camera (60), a light source (40) and a collapsible background unit (10,90) are provided, wherein the collapsible background unit (10,90) comprises an enclosure with an illuminating wall (18,95) that is translucent. The light source (40) and the background unit (10,90) are arranged relative to each other so that light from the light source (40) is directed into the interior of the enclosure, at least some of said light being transmitted to the exterior of the enclosure through the illuminating wall (18,95). The object (50,52) and the camera (60) are arranged externally of the enclosure such that the illuminating wall (18,95), or an additional translucent component (74) interposed between the illuminating wall (18,95) and the object (50,52), constitutes a background for the object (50,52). A photograph of the object (50,52) is then taken using the camera (60).

Abstract: A photographic lighting apparatus is adapted to rest upon a support surface, and comprises an operative panel having a light reflective and/or light transmissive wall, and a support member which supports the operative panel in an inclined orientation relative to the support surface. Such photographic lighting apparatus may be used as a light reflector or a light diffuser and is of particular utility for lighting the subject of a photograph from below.

Abstract: A method of photographing an object (50,52) and associated photographic apparatus are disclosed. A camera (60), a light source (40) and a collapsible background unit (10,90) are provided, wherein the collapsible background unit (10,90) comprises an enclosure with an illuminating wall (18,95) that is translucent. The light source (40) and the background unit (10,90) are arranged relative to each other so that light from the light source (40) is directed into the interior of the enclosure, at least some of said light being transmitted to the exterior of the enclosure through the illuminating wall (18,95). The object (50,52) and the camera (60) are arranged externally of the enclosure such that the illuminating wall (18,95), or an additional translucent component (74) interposed between the illuminating wall (18,95) and the object (50,52), constitutes a background for the object (50,52). A photograph of the object (50,52) is then taken using the camera (60).