Lighting a table is just not working

Question

We are trying to take short videos of a small product. The video happens on a table of 1x1 Meters, where the camera is about 40cm above the table-static.

1. I have 4 6000k led bulbs each 20W (=100W) , 1 meter from each corner
2. I have a little light comes out of the window

What happens is that only when I film very close to the object ( 10-20cm above) I get great video. If I go up to 40cm and more - you do not see details good enough.

1. Have tried good Cannon, and Fugi with different lenses

2. Tried iPhone 6 that surprised me with much better videos.

But still, 40cm above that table you see good picture but not detailed enough. On 3 of the camera I used, I get great picture only when close to the product.

What else can I do on a budget ? if I put diffuser around the table would it help ?

Answer 1

That sort of "product shot" is frequently done by firing your lights through a diffusing "tent" that surrounds the subject. You're looking to get good "modeling" of the shape and detail without specular reflection.

Cars are frequently lit the same way, but with a bigger tent.

Here's an example, although you can rig your own cheaper: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1123911-REG/surface_light_ltd_68056998365_pop_up_photo_studio.html

Answer 2

You definitely want to diffuse the light. Sounds like you have enough, and well-distributed.

It's not clear what you need from the video, though. If you need a lot of detail, fairly close-up, consider a telephoto macro lens.