Posted by lilitu-books-and-music on 03-Sep-2010 00:05 Report
Any tips on photographing jewellery
I have a heap of stuff I'd like to list but I'm not so good at photographing them.

Any tips?

Lil
 
Replied by bunny-boosbitz on 03-Sep-2010 00:13 (Ref 2191720) Report
Have a browse around the really big international craft site (if you don't get which one I mean, just message me). There are 1000's of amazing photographers on there, and a lot of the jewellry shots are outstanding and should give you heaps of ideas. :)
Replied by Toy-Crazy on 03-Sep-2010 00:23 (Ref 2191724) Report
The best way to photograph jewellery is to get yourself a photo light box or light tent (google for information and pictures) and have the jewellery displayed on proper jewellery "mannequins" etc.
Replied by ejholden on 03-Sep-2010 01:35 (Ref 2191729) Report
Use indirect lighting, no flash, & the macro setting on your camera. A tripod is a necessity.
Replied by meena on 03-Sep-2010 07:51 (Ref 2191758) Report

Hi, You can make your own light box by using an opaque plastic tub. I used one to photograph my jewellery. Turn it on it's side and take it outdoors. Not in direct sunlight though. I used to sit it o a white sheet then place flowers or something pretty in with the jewellery. Use your macro setting on your camera. It takes a few shots to get the direction and distance right but it works a treat. ...Hope this helps

Replied by richbartim on 03-Sep-2010 09:08 (Ref 2191793) Report
for an opaque plastic tub ..make one from an empty clean 2 or 3 lt milk container. cut off base and near handle.
Replied by annieoakley2000 on 03-Sep-2010 12:15 (Ref 2191889) Report
I used to take the most horrible photos of jewellery and despite playing with the cameras settings, different light angles and backgrounds it was more a fluke than good management when a jewellery photo came out slightly better than oke.

I then discovered by putting necklaces on the headless mannequin clothing torso they came out perfect, so that is finally a winner and I also often use a black velour background for other jewellery items with good result.

The next trick is to take photos of jewellery away from the item themselves, that way they often come up sharp and clear.

Of course the above is all advice from someone unfamiliar with the technicalities of photography and proper camera settings - LOL !

Replied by dichroiccreations on 17-Sep-2010 20:05 (Ref 2199592) Report
I think photographing is an art in itself, it's taken me quite a few years to master it, but am finally happy with my photos now. Good photos...leads to more sales. Yes all of the above tent, good camera, no flash, good natural light etc.
Replied by reynajewellery on 04-Feb-2011 16:23 (Ref 2265682) Report
I sympathize as I was also faced with this daunting task a few months ago when setting up my online silver jewellery store. I also read a number of reviews/blogs and decided that a light tent was the go. It was easy to build and I got great results.

However, upon some advice from a photographer I tried a much simpler approach (and it was free). Simply to use a while table (or your choice of colour) outside in the early morning light - just as the sun is coming up. Only a very simple manipulation was then required in PhotoShop for light adjustment (which I was having to do in any case).

Good luck - although from the date of the post you may be able to teach me a thing or two my now!!