posted 10-03-2009 09:07 PM            

Hi all

I recently took the plunge a bought a new digital camera (with image stabilization, 12 megapixels, macro setting etc.). Compared to my old one, the new pictures are so much better. However I was hoping I might get a little feedback on my results. I read through previous posts and was able to incorporate many of the great ideas that others have shared so far. I used the "lamp shade" box idea to take this picture and while I don't have Photoshop, I did "enhance" it with the Windows Photo Gallery software.

Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Here is a hallmark that I took as well:

Thank you

Robert

posted 10-04-2009 11:36 PM            

I would not have known that your server was considered a waffle knife. The term knife does seem out of place.

posted 10-06-2009 12:10 AM            

Btw I should have cropped them before I posted but didn't realize it until it was too late LOL.

posted 11-05-2009 04:11 PM            

One suggestion is to maybe try a bit more light.

Also, you might think about eventually buying a purpose built light stage which should improve your results over the lampshade approach. They are not very expensive.

posted 01-02-2010 01:43 PM            

You can use daylight directly from a window if you cover the actual light path with a sheet or two of bubblewrap. If it's used and a bit crumpled, no problem . But old selotape (for Australians that the clear adhesive tape) can give slight colour cast problems as will tinted bubblewrap. You can actually make a light box of this material .

If you have just bought your silver , do not clean very thoroughly . Leave a bit of dirt to give contrast and definition of edges.

Pieces of card make great refectors for daylight - I use sheets of white bond circa 16 inches (400mm) by 12inches (300mm) and cut to suit the situation.

Run a lead from your camera to a computer monitor to access the effect of lighting .

Always rephotograph if you're not happy with the results. Film was expensive and time consuming, digital you can learn form you mistakes and rectify in minutes .

Remember that silver is technical basically impossible to photo well . It's either black or white. Despite even a good grey patination that holds true. So whatever you do is going to be a fraud , but if you get it right will look even better than the original.