Whether you’re looking at mockups for a new product, paintings, photographic negatives, or layouts for a magazine, you’ll need consistent lighting for accurate color representation.
Standard light bulbs in offices and studios vary considerably from manufacturer to manufacturer, and it’s hard to judge accurate color in such variable and inconsistent conditions. That’s where lightboxes and accessories can help!
There are several different varieties of lightboxes, but no matter which type you prefer, using a lightbox means maintaining bright, even, and color-consistent illumination in any artistic medium.
Lightboxes vs Light Tables
A lightbox is typically defined as a backlit box that you place transparencies or artistic collateral on top of for viewing and tracing. Some art boxes, called viewing stations, are more like illuminated display cases for examining products and sculptures.
Light tables are free-standing lightboxes with a large surface area, giving you room to spread out and work. Many light tables are height and angle adjustable for better workflow customization.
Lightbox Accessories
While most lightboxes come with everything you need to use them, there are a few key accessories that you should keep on hand to make the most of your equipment.
Replacement Bulbs
When your lightbox bulb burns out, you can’t use just any fluorescent tube to replace it. Replacement bulbs and tubes are calibrated to maximize accuracy for press and artistic applications. With a lightbox bulb, you’ll have accurate color in your preferred color temperature, dimmable brightness, minimal flicker, and long-lasting use.
Carrying Cases
To prolong the life of your lightbox, you should always transport and store it in a protective carrying case. Look for a case with convenient carrying handles and internal pockets for cord and accessory storage.
System Cabinets
Store flat art pieces, material samples, and proofs within an archival, protective case called a system cabinet. These durable cabinets feature multiple individual drawers for organization, and come in floor-standing or table-top varieties.
For a convenient, all-in-one proofing station, consider using a system cabinet as the base for your viewing booth or station.
Get the Consistent Illumination Your Work Deserves
Whether you work in the publishing industry or focus on cutting-edge product development, you need consistent, accurate illumination. Lightboxes and accessories from JUST Normlicht, Pantone, Porta Trace, GTI, and Kaiser are among the best on the market. With carefully calibrated equipment, durable surfaces, and innovative solutions for artists, these leading brands have earned your confidence.