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Did a talk this week on close up photography and dark backgrounds, so thought I'd share this tip for those interested. There are many ways to achieve this but here is one if your on a budget?
All you need is a pane of glass and a desk lamp as seen in photo.
The key is to put the item on the glass and keep the background away from the glass, and not to allow any light to get on it. (For this example I have rested the glass on the corner of a kitchen worktop and the background is the kitchen floor)
Keep the lamp at a low angle to bring out the details.
When doing this turn off any other lights in the room. The only light should be from the lamp and onto the item to be photographed.
I hope this has helped and was of some use.
Ceri

I take it the Guinness is optional?

PS. The first tip should be to get something worth photographing!

I for one  think a gold stater is worth photographing!!!!  ( Don't know what you have been finding rjm )
Thank for sharing the tip staterchaser
Phil

Thanks for the tip Ceri, I'll be giving that one a try,

Same here, thank you.   ;)

Thanks for the tip Ceri, wise words from a professional photographer.
I used to use a scanner to photograph my find, you can get really good detail but shade, and defused light really brings out the detail.

Whats your take on light boxes, ???? I know a few members have made there own

ATB
Phil

heyy thats good, thanks,

What if you have no glass ;D Wheres photos from yestreday >:(

top tip Ceri. Nice one fella

Yes Phil, a scanner works fine if the subject is totally flat. As the depth of field is very shallow any raised object and the focus can become soft. I'm sure you know this.
As far as a lightbox, unsure what you mean? You dont mean a light box to view trannies do you?

Hi ceri
I was thinking about a 7 sided light box,
http://www.studiolighting.net/homemade-light-box-for-product-photography/ (http://www.studiolighting.net/homemade-light-box-for-product-photography/)

I have used these for product pack shots, great even lighting eliminating shadows. Ideal for feebay  :)
However I find when you need detail you need strong directional lighing to pick out detail. One light and maybe a small reflector.
cu Wednesday, Ceri ;)

Hi Ceri

I made one years ago when i used to be into .....dont laugh, Making model aircraft and Photography (35mm)
I think they can give a very harsh image when really you want shadow to show definition and shape

see you tomoz
Phil