any simple tips for photographing toned coins

Discussion in 'Coin Chat' started by Danr, Jul 25, 2007.

  1. Danr

    Danr Numismatist

    I was looking through some coins last night and I wanted to (show off) and post some pics of some great toned coins. I just can't seem to get a good photo that shows the toning and luster. I would appreciate any simple ideas (I really do not want an elaborate set up and I do not have expensive equipment- just a 4 mgpxl Sony camera).
     
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  3. codydude815

    codydude815 Wannabe coin dealer

    To capture toning you NEED at least 3 lamps, and you need a tripod or a copystand.
     
  4. Treashunt

    Treashunt The Other Frank

    And Cody would know, look at some of his pictures.
     
  5. bqcoins

    bqcoins Olympic Figure Skating Scoring System Expert

    I always fiddle with the settings a lot when it comes to pulling out the toning, then maybe tweaking the picture after its loaded onto the computer to pull the colors out
     
  6. Danr

    Danr Numismatist

    ....in other words it is tough to get without a serious set up. I will keep noodling and see what I can do.
     
  7. Just Carl

    Just Carl Numismatist

    #1 clean off the toning and it will be easier to photograph.
    #2 don't bother taking photos of those coins. :smile
    #3 Try going outside on a bright sunny day. Place the coins in the shade on a dark service. Good idea is on a picnic table with an umbrella. You can't beat that lamp up in the shy called the sun.
     
  8. GDJMSP

    GDJMSP Numismatist Moderator

    To capture toning in a coin pic all you need to do is find the right angle. It's just like looking at a coin you are holding - in order to see the toning you have to turn the coin in the light. It is the angle between the coin and your eye that allows you to see the toning. You just have to do the same thing with the camera.
     
  9. silvrluvr

    silvrluvr Senior Member

    One consideration that you might ponder is the 3 dimensional effect. A coin can only be seen in 3D with 2 eyes. That's the principle of a stereo microscope. A camera has only 1 eye, and may not capture what you normally see with your 2 eyes...Just a thought.
     
  10. AvgCollector

    AvgCollector New Member


    Clean it off? Isnt cleaning coins a no no...
     
  11. GDJMSP

    GDJMSP Numismatist Moderator


    Carl was just being his usual self - tales a while to figure out when he is just being a wise guy and when he is being serious ;)
     
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