How to photograph coins and similar items for posting in forums

[West Jersey Detecting]

I see a lot of blurry images in the forums, so I thought I would post a quick tutorial.

First you need a DECENT digital camera. Notice I did not say expensive. You will also need a tripod. I use a $9.99 model and it works just fine. Just make sure the camera has these important features.

1) Macro mode (for close-ups)
2) Tripod Mount
3) Self Timer
4) Manual Flash Control (to overide Auto Flash)
5) Zoom Control (optional, but recommended)

OK here are the steps to taking great photos. I prefer not to mess with white balance and other color controls. These can be adjusted on your computer after you upload your pictures.

1) Place the object you are photographing on a flat surface that will contrast with the object. I like to use a natural colored cutting board. Do not use anything reflective, smooth, or clear. It will make it difficult for the camera to focus.

2) Place the digicam on a tripod about 6 inches to two feet away from the object you are photographing.

3) Turn the cam on.

4) Place the Cam in Macro (Close-up) Mode. This is usually represented by a Tulip icon.

5) Turn OFF the flash. This is usually an icon of a flash with a circle and line through it.

6) Change the file size or quality to the low setting. This is 0.3M on the Fuji Cameras.

7) Turn on the Self Timer to avoid camera shake.

8) Zoom in to the desired focal length (If available)

9) Depress the shutter HALF WAY and hold until the camera focuses on the object. If the camera will not focus you may need to move it back a bit further, or try a different background.

10) Fully Depress the shutter button and release

11) Wait for the timer to take the photo.

This should give you sharp photos EVERY TIME!

Good Luck!

 

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[Mona Lisa]

Thanks Neil.....good advice! 8)

There is a photography board down below with some other ideas for macro photography. There are some good techniques posted in there too.

 

[West Jersey Detecting]

I looked for one, but I muyst have missed it!!

Thanks!

 

[Sandman]

Now here is advice I needed. I was ready to give up on sharp images of some of my finds. Even if I don't post them, I like to save a pic of them for my records.

 

[Mirage]

Thanks for the tips. A blurry pic is better than no pic. But a clear pic on a nice find makes for a sweet post.

One thing that also helps if you don't have a tripod or want to fuss with some of the other stuff - use LOTS of LIGHT. 400 Watts or more usually will do the trick. This will allow you to hold the camera(faster shutter speed) without blurring. I also like to use light at various angles because it creates "mood" or adds a certain effect that you don't get from a straight shot.

BTW - nice V nickel. Found my first about a week ago.

Mirage

 

[Don in SJ]

http://forum.treasurenet.com/index.php/topic,51350.0.html

 

[aa battery]

Thanks

 

[West Jersey Detecting]

http://forum.treasurenet.com/index.php/topic,51350.0.html

Great idea, Don! I hate when that one leg gets in the way! I usually set the tripod near a kitchen chair and place the object on a small butcher block cutting board over one corner of of the chair so that the tripod isn't in the way.

 

[Monty]

My best pics come outside in natural sunlight with a black background. You have to be careful about where your shadow falls though. Monty

 

[Merf]

I hold a Maglite flashlight [the kind that takes 4 C cells] in my left hand and take the picture with the camera in my right hand. I hold the flashlight at different angles and then pick the best pic to post.
Good advice on getting a tripod. I will buy one and get sharper pics no doubt.

 

[manscamp]

very nice picture. i am new here and this may sound dumb but once you download a picture on your computer how do you post it here in the forum. manscamp

 

[West Jersey Detecting]

very nice picture. i am new here and this may sound dumb but once you download a picture on your computer how do you post it here in the forum. manscamp

If you notice when you have the posting dialog box open, You will see a dialog box at the bottom that says "Images"
Click on the "Browse" button and click on the picture you wish to upload.

 

[MountainFan]

When you take a picture of an item, it will look better on a solid background. I use a piece of black felt. This gives great contrast and the background doesn't distract from your picture. Also lets the edges come out a little sharper.

As far as lighting, I've found desk lamps work great. Just set them on either side a foot or two away. This will highlight the different textures on the coin. If the lights are creating a glare (or if you're photographing a rounded shiny object like a badge), go to Walmart and buy a cheap lamp shade. Shoot the camera down into the shade at the object with the lights on the outside of the shade. Makes an effective "photo tent" and results in great shots!

Don't be afraid to experiment though. What works for one object might not work for another.

 

[DDEXPII]

thanks that all