I tried searching, is there a definitive thread on how to photograph coins?

This weekend I took photos depicting my basic coin photography setup. The lamps are daylight Tungsten bulbs. I use the old wooden labyrinth-toy to accurately adjust the angle of the coin.

Depending upon the coin’s surface characteristics and toning, the lamps may be diffused using a couple pieces of plain paper. I typically use drafting velum (translucent paper) as a diffuser.

When photographing a proof coin, I sometimes use a tube of velum to diffuse the illumination all around the coin while minimizing the axial illumination. The camera is aimed down the tube depicted. We sometimes put a black card on the camera so that the camera’s reflection doesn’t appear in the coin’s mirror surface.

Here is a thread in the World/Ancient coin forum that describes more photography discussions:
Read more: http://www.cointalk.com/t222401-2/#ixzz2Kd91WADO

 

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Here is a link to Mark Goodman's website with a very informative article on how to photograph coins.

My Approach to Coin Photography
by Mark Goodman

 

Mark's book and website put me on the fast track to learning how to image coins. After that it's all about the practice a person is willing to do. I found it important to study imaging one type of coin at a time. Dark copper can drive you crazy. Silver takes time but it's getting easy after a few thousand images. Fun stuff.

 

Another photography thread:

Diffused Lighting Coin Photography (Capture the Color)

As I find them, I am going to add links to other topics into this one, and ultimately try to build something that could be added to the FAQ section.

PCGS photos - what type of lighting?