Mastering the Art of Jewellery Photography

Nothing can be more challenging than shooting tiny pieces of gemstones or delicate pieces of accessories that women wear. And it is equally a stimulus to master the art of jewellery photography with studio infrastructure.

The art of the shooting jewellery items involves a series of techniques, lighting and a systematic method to achieve the finest effects. To start with, the accurate camera with slr is needed to capture the objects. A 35 mm camera with TTL (through the lens) is ideal and most professionals have it in their kitty. Well-known brands like Nikon and Canon have sophisticated models, which are perfect for shooting jewellery photography. The digital cameras for product photography have evolved towards more complex versions for detailing. Since the items are small and exquisite the delicacy needs to be captured in style. To make dangling earrings look attractive to the buyers, the photographs will feature focused lighting. For diamond (solitaires) and pearls (necklaces), soft reflections can do the trick. In the same manner, rubies and emeralds are highlighted with the right sharpness and exposure. Getting the act right will ensure that the shoot does not remain a mystery or a perpetual failure.

Dramatic lighting is essential in this special breed of jewelry product photography. It will take some effort to set up the equipment and get the items displayed. And it requires no super model to prop up its glamour quotient. One undisclosed tip that can really be helpful is that after the shoot, image editing can create the lengthy or short drop shadows for added effects. Before that let’s concentrate on the shoot itself. With the lights, camera action in place the studio will ensure that a clean clutter free table is used. A white satin cloth is draped around for the setting. The photographer decides the sources of lights. It could be a single source or a series of multiple angles. The look can be ‘daylight’ or it could be ‘sepia toned’. These are done with the addition of fluorescent bulbs. Special shutterbugs also use the LED bulb, which is considered a fine diamond sparkler. These are remarkable in getting sharp pictures. The camera can be put into ‘spot mode’ where the focus is directly targeted on the main item-diamond, emerald or pearl stones. The photographer is able to restrict the surrounding jurisdiction of the item. The spot mode is applicable when the close up of the items are targeted. While a user can close in towards the item while shooting, the lens or the hand movement can be unsteady while shooting. A tripod can be a savior. Sharp images can then be clicked.

Some jewels shine when soft lighting is thrown on them. The use of the diffuser on the lens is the key to such shots. In the studio shots there is no need for flash for close up shots. It may overexpose the picture and ruin the hard work. It may also create shadows that may be distractive. Therefore, controlled lights around the jewellery are the best option. These days the trend is to use the compact florescent bulbs is a great balancer. The right exposure brings best results. Mastering the art eventually will take some years and employment of creative skill also.