What's your set up for photographing antique coins?

4 years 5 months ago #664391 by Raymond Z
I've been asked to photograph some coins for someone and don't have a clue what to use for this.  Focal length, lighting, etc. 

If you were to photograph a bunch of old coins with sharp detail, what would you use?

Thank you!


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4 years 5 months ago #664392 by Nikon Shooter
What would I use?

A 105 macro lens,
a flash with diffusor and reflector
a tripod.

Light is free… capturing it is not!
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4 years 5 months ago #664397 by effron

Nikon Shooter wrote: What would I use?

A 105 macro lens,
a flash with diffusor and reflector
a tripod.


Yup.

Why so serious?
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4 years 5 months ago #664398 by Raymond Z
Thank you.

Would you consider using a LED constant light of some sort?  Or an actual flash?


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4 years 5 months ago #664402 by Nikon Shooter
Only flash for me, more flexible in any ways!

Light is free… capturing it is not!
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4 years 5 months ago #664424 by effron
As stated, diffuse and bounce a flash for the best, easiest to work light.

Why so serious?
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4 years 5 months ago #664429 by garyrhook
If you're using a tripod, you can use whatever shutter speed is required, so constant light would work. The issue is diffusion, but you'll probably still want some shadows to define detail.

Experiment. Try plenty of light from all directions vs. primarily one direction. You could probably invest in one of those little diffusion tents  for a small amount of money. In any event, you'll likely want two or more light sources.


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4 years 5 months ago #664552 by Tim Dordeck
One of those light tents like what Gary posted will become your best friend for photographing these coins and other small items.  When you have your light dialed in, the lighting is defused nicely and just makes shooting small items a breeze.  

Focal length around 100mm will be best IMO.


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4 years 5 months ago #664862 by Pete Franko
I picked up a light tent last year and it's a handy item to have.  I don't use it much, but when I need it, it's gold.  


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4 years 5 months ago #665000 by Mason Latka
How small do those light tents fold up when not in use?  Are these something you can travel with?


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4 years 5 months ago #665029 by Sanford
Depends on light tent, most will  fold up like a book or roll up once you take their frame apart. 


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