Coin Photography

I just recently recieved a Sony Cybershot Camera for Christmas and am trying to take some pics of my coins for my own references but I cant seem to get many of them to turn out clear even if I use the Macro setting. Does anyone have any tips or suggestions on this subject? I'm totally lost with this. :headbang:

 

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I'm still learning myself and am using a NIKKON D200.

There are two keys...the first is to find the focal point of the lens to get the best "closest" shot. This is easy, just hold the coin or item as close to the lens until its out of focus.

The second is much more tricky. That is the lighting/flash. Every coin has a different texture: some reflect much more light (proofs that reflect most of the light), and those that abosorb much more light (dull coppers) and requires more of it. You'll have to experiment with the angles.

Since these cameras are digital, trial and error are much cheaper....

 

I didnt know that the Macro icon changed colors, I'll have to pay more attention to that. No, Im not using a tripod or a copy stand, Im attempting these photos holding the camera in my hands, which Im sure is most of the problem. I have however found that lighting is a major factor and a matter of experimenting and lots of trial and error getting it right. Id love to post some of my coins here and show them off if I could just get the actual picture taking part right..lol. Thanks guys, you've really helped.

 

wolves69, I also have a Nikon D200 plus a Canon 500D Close-up lens/filter. I think it will be a good set-up once I get a decent tripod and lights. I've been trying it hand held with 1 desk lamp and/or Nikon SB-800 Speedlight without very good results. I get much better pictures with my Kodak DX7630 through the eyepiece of my binocular microscope, but I can't get full coin shots of anything larger than a dime.

 

I've been using the camera by hand and without a speedlight. The results aren't too bad, but my old 35mm does a lot better, but only a lot more costly. I have a speedlight for the older Coolpix 990...I wonder if that will work on the D200?

What did your close-up lens/filter run you?

 

This is really true of digital cameras. For some reason they take more light than film cameras. One thing to check on in the instructions is if your camera can change the ISO (ASA) rating. If you appear to require more lighting an increase in ISO may be all you need. For example on film cameras the film could be purchased from ASA25 all the way up to ASA1,000 and with slide film even higher. Many digital cameras are shipped with a rating of ISO(ASA) 200.
Another thing I've always found is taking pictures outdoors with a digital camera works better than anything indoors. Of course if your in Alaska that is difficult now.
Try a web site called TableTopStudio for photo hints.

 

Check out this link. He gives some great advice and takes superb digital photos of coins.

 

You also need to go into the menu and select "incandescent" or your photos taken using indoor light will turn out brown.This is especially important when photographing silver.

 

In case I need to create photo of coin as soon as possible I'm taking shot from a distance about 1 meter with camera zoomed, to avoid illuminations

Sometimes it is nessesary to change exposure value if photo is overexposed. In any case, just try!

 

I use this camera. get a tripod andgood light

Ruben

 

wolves69 - Sorry it took so long to answer. I spent $120 on the close-up lens. It definitely helps with focus on small objects.