How can I photograph jewelry using light but not get any shadows?

[Former_Member]

I see many beautiful photographs of jewelry on etsy where there is obviously a light being used. The photographs are lovely because they highlight crystal or translucent stones. Every time I try to photograph my jewelry using a light a get shadows. Any suggestions on lighting techniques?

[Former_Member]

I would suggest you use a light box or a light diffuser. Don't shine the light directly on the item being photographed.

Here are some great tips on getting the photos you want
http://www.etsy.com/blog/en/tags/etsy-success-photography/

[Former_Member]

Thanks crochetgal!

[ForgedMettleJewelry]

The best light for photographing jewelry comes from the shaded side of you home/building/etc.

that, (which I have "cause all my picture were taken indoor "cause our weather's been bad here for 2 months straight) I have a setup where I have two lamps with natural day bulbs and no shades set up on opposite sides of my desk, but anything with an overhang will work like a shelf. Then to the underside of that overhand I taped a piece of tracing paper a couple inches in from each bulb and then tape the dangling ends to the lamps themselves. Sort of a like the tracing paper is cupping the bulb, but nit so close that it will start a fire after being on for a couple hours.

This set up gives you almost NO shadow whatsoever...

[FallenAngelBrass]

I shoot in an east facing window sill on cloudy mornings. Best diffused light ever.

[Former_Member]

if you set your camera timer you can then pick up a light,( i use natural bulb in the aluminum clip on work lites from home depot) aim the light from your camera direction towards the jewelry, watch the shadow move... practice this before setting camera timer. you might want to hold the lite slightly raised up or point it straight ahead...so i have lites on the each side of my photo cubeand then a light i aim from the front

[vintagecalif]

Enhancing the photo with the free google program Picasa 3 is simple and easy. Download it for free and spend 15 minutes getting familiar with it.

It is sooo easy. And the pics come out great.

Took these pics at dusk and they were really dark. 30 seconds with Picasa 3 and here is the result.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/54972179/blown-glass-and-sterling-pendant-vase

Good luck.

P.S. the lightbox is also great idea.

[Former_Member]

Light box, definitely. I prefer sunlight rather than the lamps.

[Former_Member]

Yes, light box, and use the White Balance on your camera. Actually, I like a little bit of shadow.