Author |
Replies: 12 / Views: 1,170 |
|
New Member
United States
24 Posts |
One thing I have always really struggled with is photographing coins for sale. I see other sellers, like this example here https://www.ebay.com/itm/196633167082 (note to mods, this is not my listing, I am not selling this item, just using as a photographic example) and the photography is excellent. It beautifully shows the coin, without embellishing its flaws. I have a small light box and an iPhone 15 Pro Max. My coin photos always come out too dark, and the flaws seem embellished. Does anyone have an inexpensive system for taking easily repeatably good coin photos? By inexpensive, I mean under $100 or so. *** Moved by Staff to a more appropriate forum. ***
|
|
Bedrock of the Community
 United States
18732 Posts |
Itamae, by "light box" do you mean an axial lighting system? That is how best results are achieved.
Inordinately fascinated by bits of metal with strange markings and figures
|
New Member
 United States
24 Posts |
Edited by Itamae 10/31/2024 5:02 pm
|
Bedrock of the Community
 United States
18732 Posts |
How do you position the coin and your phone?
Inordinately fascinated by bits of metal with strange markings and figures
|
Bedrock of the Community
 United States
94367 Posts |
 to the CCF!
|
Bedrock of the Community
United States
17524 Posts |
Please post a photo or two--examples of your efforts. Might help us better address the challenges. Thanks.
|
New Member
 United States
24 Posts |
|
Moderator
 United States
164377 Posts |
Quote: As requested, below are a few of my "efforts" lol. A strong effort.  I will allow the experts inform how you might be able to improve.
|
Bedrock of the Community
 United States
18732 Posts |
Itamae, your photos are actually pretty good. - For slabs, I take pictures of the full slab as you do, then close-ups of the coin. I use Earle42's method http://goccf.com/t/422658#3638021) using a gooseneck ring light instead of a clamp-on. - When possible, remove coins from their capsule / 2X2. - Proof coins are an absolute bear to photograph - every bit of dust on the coin / holder is disproportionately emphasized. If you photograph straight-on, you'll get a reflection of your camera / phone. One method is to position your camera at a slight angle to the coin. The coin will still reflect - what I do is hold a piece of white paper on the opposite side of the coin at the same angle as my phone. Hope this helps!
Inordinately fascinated by bits of metal with strange markings and figures
Edited by Hondo Boguss 11/03/2024 2:23 pm
|
New Member
 United States
24 Posts |
Great stuff Hondo, thank you! Yeah I can't figure out how to get rid of dust all over my holders, coins, and especially, my background. Any tips on that?
|
Bedrock of the Community
 United States
18732 Posts |
For your background, try using a lint roller, duct tape, or masking tape. If all else fails, perhaps you can wash it with your clothes (it might bleed or disintegrate, however). For dust on coins, many people use lens cleaning brushes / blowers. There are many types, and very cheap online (why don't I have one yet?). 
Inordinately fascinated by bits of metal with strange markings and figures
|
New Member
 United States
24 Posts |
My background is a semi rigid plastic. Dust sticks to it like a magnet. Does everyone else take their photos in sterile surgical room? I didn't know if there was some kind of editing program that had a "remove dust" feature.
|
Valued Member
United States
335 Posts |
I've used the "white box option" (several provided) and seem to get the best results. While not perfect, I have not had a single complaint about the coin I deliver on a sale (280+). The pictures I post have been effective. Note: using an android/Samsung phone camera ... much easier to post right from the phone it seems ...
|
|
Replies: 12 / Views: 1,170 |
|