Taking photos of jewellery is notorious difficult, so we have teamed up with our friends at Digital Photo Magazine to give you some basic hints and tips.
How To Take Better Pictures of Jewellery
Your Camera
Most modern digital cameras have a Macro function or mode, identified by
a
small flower symbol. Using this macro function allows you to magnify the
subject in the picture and therefore get a more detailed, attractive picture.
Make sure your camera's White Balance is set to Auto to avoid the picture
looking yellow.
If possible, use a tripod to steady your camera when shooting a steadier
camera means sharper pictures.
Preparation
Make sure the item is free from dirt, dust and fingerprints as these will
stick out like a sore thumb in the photo.
Pick a suitable background that doesn't fight the item of jewellery you're
shooting. Black are dark velvet is good, but a sheet of white paper will
do
fine, too.
Lighting
If using a compact camera in Macro mode, switch off the inbuilt flash,
because if you're close-up to the subject, it will be too bright.
Instructions for how to do this will be in your camera's manual.
Use an external light source like a desk lamp or similar.
To minimise glare, reflections and shadows, diffuse the light source by
placing a sheet of greaseproof paper or similar.
Other Equipment
If you take a lot of jewellery product shots, invest in a professional light
tent. Interfit's Studio Light Tent, or Photo Box cost as little as £35 and
will greatly improve the lighting of your pictures. See
www.warehouseexpress.com
for more details. Practical Photography also have an excellent for anyone
who is thinking about buying
a new digital camera.
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