Proper lighting makes a huge difference when it comes to photographing jewelry. This prior post shows the same bracelet photographed with poor lighting and then again with much better lighting. In the past, I photographed my jewelry primarily for historical purposes so I had a record of the things I had made. I took the photographs using regular household lighting and a flash. That was adequate at the time because I sold most items in stores where customers saw the actual item. So, it didn’t really matter how the photograph looked.
Once I began Internet sales and blogging, I knew I had to take better photographs because a potential customer would have to make a decision based on the photograph, not the actual piece of jewelry. I made initial improvements by taking photographs outside. Shooting in strong sunlight produced harsh shadows so I tried shooting in shade. I got it to work if I was in the shade but close to the bright sunlight. I got great results when the lighting was exactly right. However, there were factors at play that I couldn’t control – weather and how light changed in different seasons. So, I knew I had to take it indoors.
I searched the Internet and ended up purchasing a light tent and lamps designed specifically for the purpose of photographing jewelry and other small items. It made a world of difference and has been totally worth the investment. I’ve seen Internet articles on how to make a light box and I know people who have done so with good results as well. The best thing about resolving the lighting issue (aside from not having jewelry blow away in the wind or looking with despair at a forecast calling for seven straight days of rain) is the freedom it gives you to then focus on the composition of the shot, not the technical aspects.
May 12, 2009 at 5:12 pm
Will need to buy one of those light tent and lighting. Photography is tricky for the web. I have trouble getting the colors to look right.
The lighting for the tutorial videos we shoot is great, but it’s too harsh for the jewelry shots.
I have a great deal of respect for the bead artists with the great photos. One day I hope to have them too!
May 13, 2009 at 3:42 pm
Cindy,
It was totally worth the investment and I think some people have had success with items they made from cardboard boxes and large plastic totes. The diffused lighting makes a big difference.