My career in photography started at Polaroid. I was there for almost eighteen years, leaving to take over as president of Hasselblad USA. Even though Polaroid has changed dramatically from the 20,000+ employee powerhouse it was over thirty years ago; I still have a soft spot for the company. When I got a press release a few months ago about their portable softbox studio, I had to contact them for a test drive.
It arrived a few days later, and for an inexpensive product like this, it's pretty respectable. The upgraded pro version comes with: two daylight LED lights with small light stands, four colored backdrops, a tripod stand, the 20x20 softbox "tent" and its own nylon kit case.

Remember, I've got virtually no experience in tabletop work, and to a pro, I know it shows. But here's my point: I needed a shot of the GH4 with a lens for a blog post, the Polaroid softbox studio was perfect for the job. I set it up in my office and just shot it.
To do the job right, I really need to learn some of the techniques for solid table top work. However, we're talking about a $99 product ($89.99 at B&H this morning).

Like everything in my life there's a story behind the ring that's fun to share. My Dad bought me the ring when I was twelve in New Mexico on a cross-country family trip. I thought I'd lost it over the years, and found it recently in a box of old photographs and letters.
Building a tree house with friends when I was a kid, I slipped off the ladder and caught my ring on a nail. I came close to losing a finger, and the ring had to be cut off. Fast forward fifty+ years later and I found it recently. Kay Jewelers cleaned it up and fixed it for me, and Sheila's having fun wearing it as a pinky ring.
While I know many of you are working pros, and might look at this as a more amateur product, this little kit does the job. It's inexpensive with a lot of bang for the buck. It's perfect for photographing small objects and imagine how much better my images would look if I took the time to perfect my table top technique.
Interesting in checking out other fun products from Polaroid? Just click the thumbnail below: