Hello, Coin Talkers! I see many people asking how to take great photos showing details. It is frustrating, especially for high relief coins like Buffalo nickels. It's also cheaper than buying expensive equipment. Here are some of my photos: 1932 s quarter, 37-D 3 legs, 09-s vdb, henning nickels. Notice how clear every spot of these coins are visible, especially the Buffalo. This might sound dumb, bizarre, and/or unorthodox, but what I do is take them outside on bright overcast days. I use the early morning where the sun is not directly above, and thus when my camera hovers over, it doesn't leave a shadow which darkens it. I then angle the coin just slightly until I get the shot I want. I hold my camera above the coin and zoom in (because oftentimes getting up close means the sharpness wavers in and out). Thus technique works on every American coin from Peace dollars to Buffalos to Franklin halves and everyrhing else. It's also great for trying to photograph jewelry. Try it and you will see it works, but it should be a bright overcast day. And I would advise you to not attempt in the rain or snow.
That's only part of your secret. PLEASE post what camera, lens, settings etc. you are using. I have been a lurker here forever and just now registered to ask you this. LOL
I hate to disappoint you, but all I am using is my new LG smartphone. I don't even own a standard camera. I hope this isn't a letdown for you. I'm telling you, use natural outdoor light. Early morning. Bright Overcast days. That's it. And it beats out a lot of other people's high tech stuff by far.
What model number? I have a LG (old one) and all my pics look like I'm shooting in the world's best potato competition. I guess I need to upgrade
I'll have to test this for myself when the weather improves in late spring or summer. Perhaps by then I will have a system in place where many of my coins can be photo'd that way and I will compare some against what I do inside.
This type of lighting is called "diffuse" lighting. The professional coin photographers have methods to replicate this in a more controlled environment. You pictures are good, and clear (much better than I would have expected from a phone). The problem with this type of lighting is that it is very difficult to show luster. For example, I'm assuming that Washington quarter has quite a bit of luster in hand under a regular light. Your picture shows a lot of detail, but no luster at all. Diffuse lighting is good for certain types of coin pictures, but by no means should it be your only method.
Excellent points, and collectors like luster. I can take photos to show that as well, but I hate when luster masks contact marks and other problems, especially when I have to buy online. Thanls for the polite and professional comments, my friend.
