How do you take good photographs of pearls?

Hi Valerene, well you're pretty darn good... I'd add a tripod, and cord to trigger the photo to remove your reflection, and somehow lighten up your camera color, to remove it from the reflection. How about one of those camera cases? Look for a light one, something that won't emphasize the outline of the camera.

As you'll see in that thread, I believe Cliclasp mentions fussing with the background, the area around the pearl, post-photography.

How are the photos showing up on your website? I'll have to take a look tomorrow.
 
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Hmm post photography editing. What software would you recommend besides photoshop?

and about painting my black digital camera white... i don't think i know how to do that without spoiling my camera! hahaha that is a really cool idea though. maybe i should also wear white gloves when taking pictures. maybe that would work!
 
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I love the idea of a white digital camera! And your photos are better than mine..... BTW I still wear the 12mm shown above. the pearls in it only cost $10 at the 2005 Gem show. They have chunks missing- I think a result of the dye job making the pearls too brittle in places. The dyes have improved immensely since then. And the crater pearls still look great! They have mostly blue overtones.
 
yes, the white digital camera idea is cool...but spray paint on a camera, how can i prevent the camera from getting spoilt?

2005 wasn't that long ago...it's amazing how much technology has improved since then!
 
cookierookie said:
yes, the white digital camera idea is cool...but spray paint on a camera, how can i prevent the camera from getting spoilt?

2005 wasn't that long ago...it's amazing how much technology has improved since then!
Click to expand...

If I may, you need NOT paint anything.
Rather use a tent. Look at this link, scroll down.
Light tents are quite suitable for depicting silver and other shiny metals. However, as the lighting is very soft they are not suitable for all jobs. For example, the brightness, structure and beauty of precious stones is best emphasised by specular reflections and tonal variations. Similary the light may be too soft for objects if you want the picture to show the surface structure. In such cases, combine soft light with a small light source aimed at the precious stone, and surround the object with white screens to obtain appropriate reflections.
Click to expand...

I have something similar for reptiles but the idea isn't reflection, rather protection... ;)
 
Hi Cyril,

I just looked at the link, that is so very creative! i think i can easily make that and place some LED desk lamps next to the tent to create the diffused daylight effect. I shall attempt to make it this weekend. hohoho. how exciting!
 
Hi Cyril,

I will give those a try...will look up Zoner Photo studio. and yes i was after freeware! Photoshop is so expensive!
 
Eek! Whoa! No spray paint! Sorry. Whew. Dabs with a tiny sponge for mottled look (which you would want) or paintbrush, and of course avoiding all moving parts and meters and gauges. Also, AFTER your camera warranty has expired, because otherwise messing about with the camera would probably void a warranty, to say nothing about complicating any resale.

So Sorry, I didn't think to clarify that :-(. The tent is a better suggestion :). Thanks for the link, Cyril.

Also simple, one of those camera covers would do as well, and not void any warranties.

I'm going to edit out the paint in the other post. It's frivolous anyway.
 
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well it was a great suggestion anyway lisa! reminds me that next time i shop for a digital camera, I should get a white one! eliminates all problems...haha
 
hi Valerene, thank you ​for not spray painting your camera! Thanks also for your nice attitude, and laughing :)
 
lisa c said:
Thanks for the link, Cyril.
Click to expand...

Most welcome.
This said I do like the idea of painting the camera.
Wouldn't do it on a point and shoot or dslr because they are a pain to dismantle.
Some dslr and some lenses have "skin" (what you refer to as cover) that are used mostly for protection.
But those could be customized and painted to suit your need e.g: camo theme for animal photography.
Link for skin.

Your idea isn't that frivolous, It is actually quite cool for a pro oriented market.
 
thanks for the link to the skins, they are pretty amazing! that's the first time i've even heard of anything like that.

wish me luck...hopefully i'll get to make the diffused light white tent this week...and also spray paint my camera (kidding!)
 
Your idea isn't that frivolous, It is actually quite cool for a pro oriented market.[/QUOTE]

Thanks Cyril, I won't feel so sheepish now.
 
Heck, a tube sock with a few judicious holes would do in a pinch. :)
 
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