DIY Lighting Set-Up

[DSJohnson]

I'm looking to create a relatively cheap and easy lighting set up as I am preparing to photograph all of my architectural models for my portfolio.

Everyone at school usually just shoots outside on white foam core so you get that nice rich sunlight, and good shadows. The issue we always have with that is that living in Florida it's hot (even in the winter) and uncomfortable to shoot for long periods of time. Also the sun gets so intense that the backgrounds make the shots overexposed.

So I want to set up an indoor studio for myself. Here are my requirements...

Cost: $100-150 Max
Type of Light: As close to Sunlight as possible*
Backgrounds?

So any thoughts? I don't know the type of light to purchase... Fluorescent? Halogen? How many lights? Reflectors?

And any ways to make this D.I.Y. would be great... I can easily make light stands and diffusers, no problem.

[archersdad]

What equipment do you have now? I assume a camera and tripod. All you really need is a couple lamps and a sheet to use for the background. Since your subject isn't moving anywhere, you should be fine with regular household lamps and a long exposure. I have even seen some long-exposure shots using an LED flashlight as the primary light. You can wave it around the structure to "paint" the light where you want it. It takes some practice but can work very well.

Introduction To LED Lighting | DIYPhotography.net