I'm by no means an expert. I got my lightbox today for Christmas. Need to switch to florescent bulbs, the halogens make my face drip with sweat. The pics of the ASE did not turn out like I hoped, I don't know why. If you have any tips or criticism, please share.
Try taking pictures with a paper towel over the light, diffusing it. Then post pictures and let's hope for a difference. I would also try taking from straight on.
They appear a little too "cool" or blue color. Try changing the color balance, or if your camera has a way to point at a piece of white paper under the lights and push a setting button to change the color balance. I also see a little of "out of focus", maybe due to camera shake rather than actual lack of focus. This can change a sharp appearing coin into a blah coin. Don't be discouraged, as each new piece of equipment has a learning curve. Jim
Quality is fabulous, but the luster is being muted do to insufficient or improper lighting. Toy with diffuse or axail lighting and see which you prefer. Along with the lighting problems, there seems to be a bit of discoloration... Which could simply be a result of the poor lighting. Either way, try adjusting a few balancing-related settings on your software that was hopefully included with the purchase of this "lightbox" (which I've never heard of). The device has potentional... Just needs some tweaking. -Brian
Lol...I feel stupid. This is the 1st time I ever used a lightbox, did not realize until after seeing pictures of them that your supposed to keep the lights on the outside of the box. Pics of the ASE still didn't turn out like I wanted. I also played around with the settings on photobucket to make them look better.
Changing the lighting, then looking through the camera is not the best answer. Whenever possible, witness the changes in lighting in real time, through the lens (of a DSLR). Watch for changes in lighting on hair and lettering for example, where small changes can have major effects. You are seeking results that look natural, accurate and well lit. In your top photo in the OP, glare from lighting is reflected from slab, and affects parts of the coin. With slabbed examples, try to avoid light reflecting from the slab. If that can't be avoided, crop later to eliminate reflections or glare on slab. You've made a very good start. If you can shoot straight down, you'll have a better chance of being square to the coin. You can use bubble level to level surface where coin will rest, then on back of camera. Of course, most everybody needs a tripod or copy stand to take great photos of coins. The camera's self-timer, or a remote release will be helpful. Eliminate any source of camera movement, including shutter, mirror, lens and body. I am wondering what you mean by "pic heavy." Thanks. : )
