Lightboxes

A lightbox is an illuminated display or viewing device that uses a translucent panel with a light source positioned behind or inside it. The purpose is to provide bright, even backlighting for translucent materials, to reveal detail, or to display signage and artwork.

In photography, lightboxes or light tents are used to photograph flat subjects such as products, documentation, or artwork. They combine diffusion layers with a uniform light source, typically LEDs or fluorescent tubes, to minimize shadows and reflections. Color temperature is often around 5000 kelvin, and a high color rendering index helps represent real colors.

Advertising and retail lightboxes are rigid enclosures with a translucent front panel that evenly transmits backlighting from LEDs or fluorescent lamps. They are used to illuminate posters, signs, or graphics in storefronts and exhibitions, in a range of sizes from small display cases to large wall installations.

Medical lightboxes, also called X-ray view boxes, are tall, flat panels that backlight films of radiographs for diagnostic viewing. They require even illumination and high brightness, with modern units typically using LEDs and diffuse panels.

Common construction materials include diffusion sheets or acrylic panels, white plastic or metal frames, and LED or fluorescent light sources. Many models offer dimming, adjustable color temperature, and dim-to-wake features; portable units may use USB power.

Advantages of lightboxes include efficient, even illumination and reduced shadows; limitations include heat generation in older models and the need for electrical power. LED-based lightboxes offer energy efficiency, longer life, and better durability.