Sylvia Williams  


In-the-box  by Sylvia Williams

July 2024 - In-the-box

About the Image(s)

I've seen some in-the-box photography online and wanted to try it. I did not have a box, so my husband built one for me. It clearly cannot fit a whole person - maybe next time.
I used two lights plus an off camera flash. I do not think that I changed my settings once I got started. I shot the younger woman with dark hair first. I am not clear why the wood frame looks different in different photos.
I spent more time than expected putting this together (I never was good at estimating).
I know that it could be lined up better.

I am hoping for tips or trips in either shooting or editing.

Nikon Z7ii
1/10 sec at f/16, ISO 320
37mm(Nikkor z 24-70mm)


This round’s discussion is now closed!
8 comments posted




Jim Overfield   Jim Overfield
Very clever project. Your time and effort in producing this fantastic collage is very impressive. I smile and laugh when looking at the body language of all three players. I'm also impressed with your use of lighting, which is also done very well, something I'm not adept at all in using. I don't know the technic in constructing a collage, but regarding why the wood frame looks different in different photos; could the sizing of each photo used be different from each other? Great job Sylvia.   Posted: 07/09/2024 13:36:40
Sylvia Williams   Sylvia Williams
Thanks. It is hard getting people to pose like you want - I tried passing from block to block but nothing lined up (even with tiny marks on the side).
I am wondering if the cube got nudge just a bit in between my models.
And I actually struggled with the lighting. My non-photographer hubby helped me line up the shot and the lighting.   Posted: 07/10/2024 00:22:29



Sabine Nehls   Sabine Nehls
Sylvia, I am amazed by your creativity and the amount of work you put in. I just saw a YouTube video by Jennifer Earle doing "In The Box Photography" and I admire your work even more.
There is so much to discover in your picture, it's just fun to look at it. I can imagine that it was difficult bringing the people in the right position, but you did a good job.
I like the vertical on the right best. Some of the women are watching while the one in the middle pours water into the glass of the one below. The situation is effective in itself and made me smile.
Unfortunately, I can't give you any tips on either editing or shooting. I have not made a collage like yours yet. I will definitely give it a try.
Thank you for sharing the result of your creativity with us.
  Posted: 07/15/2024 07:26:13
Sylvia Williams   Sylvia Williams
Thank you. I saw Jennifer Earle doing "In The Box Photography" as well and have already told my husband that if I can master the small box, and enjoy it, I may need a bigger box :)   Posted: 07/19/2024 20:37:42



Douglas Gerdts   Douglas Gerdts
I am intrigued by the placement of the 3 models. They form 3 triangles, never repeat in columns but each bookend a row. Love the thought that went into the arrangement - plus - the water pouring is so fun and whimsical!

This reminds me of the some of the choral presentations done during the pandemic with singers/musicians in boxes (virtual, however!). Plus…those of us in the States of a certain age may recall a TV show with this same grid opening!

Love the willingness to try a new technique - and it does appear that your spouse is handed a new project for every shoot!   Posted: 07/15/2024 22:55:14
Sylvia Williams   Sylvia Williams
Thank you. I did but thought into the arrangement, but did not realize they formed three triangles :)
and yes, on IG I as DaSyWill Photography (Da for Dave, Sy For Sylvia and Will for Williams) as he is involved quite a bit.

I keep trying new techniques as I try to find my niche.   Posted: 07/19/2024 20:39:28



Yvonne Cary Carter   Yvonne Cary Carter
Sylvia, The tv show is Hollywood Squares! This would be a good family reunion project. The interaction of the two squares with the water works must have been hard. Can't imagine the time and patience it took for you to create In-The-Box. Looks like the trick is to have interaction between subjects and eye contact to camera. Fantastic job!!   Posted: 07/19/2024 20:00:37
Sylvia Williams   Sylvia Williams
Thank you Yvonne, i have had a couple of friends as if they can borrow the box for a gathering   Posted: 07/19/2024 20:40:00