Question:
Currently I'm looking into purchasing a digital camera for my beads
and jewelry. I'm looking at the Nikon 995 right now. I've been pleased
with the pictures I've been able to take with it, but was wanting to
get other advice. I do not want to spend anymore that 450.00. That
will take care of the camera piece. The other area of needed advice is
lights and "tents" although, I don't know what the tents do,or if I
need it. If I do need one, I need to learn how to make one and use it
to get the best affect out of my jewelry. Also tripods.
Anyone have advice on taking pictures of beads and jewelry?
Answer:
-I have an Olympus Camedia Z2000 that I purchased because of it's outstanding
macro abilities. I got a refurbished one off of www.overstock.com and paid
about $340 for it. It retailed for $700, so I feel that I got a heckuva
deal. The only difference between my camera and the current Z2xxx series is
that the new one will record short video. I didn't need that (we have a
camcorder), so I bought the refurbished and love it.
If you check out this picture on my site, it was taken with the digital
camera. It uses 8 mm fiber optic beads - you can see how close I got to the
item and I don't think I even used the macro feature on this pic and it's at
Standard quality.
http://www.penguintrax.com/Images/Jewelry/ztabraceletberry.jpg
Also check out this picture, again, taken with the Olympus, but this time,
at night. I think I used the macro feature. The pic you will see at this
link is sized down 50%.
http://www.penguintrax.com/Images/visitor.jpg
-I don't think you can go terribly wrong with the Nikon. In my personal opinion
it has the best macro ability. I started out with a Casio back in 1996 ot 97,
have had several Kodak digital cameras, and now primarily use a Nikon. Also
have a Canon S100, not great for jewelery but wonderful as an everyday digital
"snapshot" camera.
