I photograph my coins several times each, typically in a controlled environment. Yesterday and today, i tried a combination of natural sunlight and LED white light. There was a decent amount of cloud coverage. I spent 3 hours in the courtyard. I haven't been this happy with a batch of photos in a long time.
Great photos! Natural light with slight cloud cover is how I take my pictures as well. Often, I have to wait a handful of days before there's just the right ratio of clouds/sun to take a decent picture. I've been known to rearrange my schedule when the lighting is particularly cooperative for coin photos (we all have our vices).
Outstanding! You've really captured the toning on those coins! Lovely coins and lovely photos! I love photographing coins in sunlight. I have photographed a few of these just this weekend. Seller's photo: My photo: Seller's photo: My photo: Seller's photo: My photo: Seller's photo: My photo: Seller's photo: My photo:
Fine work. The secret of lighting can be nothing more than recognizing it when it comes your way. Some, I like better than others but all show promise. I tend to be too careful not to have blanked out highlights and can make muddy images as a result. All extremes are less desirable than a reasonable balance. If I were to change yours to have more detail in the bright spots, would I ruin their sparkle? Sometimes we achieve different when we try for better but we still try. I see 3 hours well spent. What will tomorrow bring?
I have a couple of friends who help me with my photos Both use very different methods But overall I am pleased with the results. Syracuse Dekadrachm unsigned 400-390 B.C.
That's essentially the caveat; I'm sacrificing detail for luster and iridescence. I always try to strike a decent balance. My setup is always so dynamic that I find myself not being able to improve on certain facets. Definitely going to experiment with the artificial/natural combo over the next few days, though. One of these days I'll buy a real camera. Still using the smart phone.
Those are great pics, especially for a smart phone, and very nice coins, too. I haven't taken photos of my coins in natural light for a couple of years now and do feel that many my pics these days lack a little something. I'm probably just not putting enough effort or thought into my lighting set-up. I was quite pleased with the results of this one I took a few weeks ago, however. The iridescent toning just came alive with a little tilt of the lamp. Some coins just love the camera.
What a fantastic photography day you had, @iamtiberius! I don't often use solely natural light because it's so hard to control, although I always shoot in daylight and there is abundant indirect light in my home. @zumbly, that Longinus is gorgeous! I also play with tilt when trying to maximize the colors of toned coins.
Just curious: what make/model smart phone did you use? The capture of the silver metallic tone is excellent. PeteB
