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Photographing Jewelry… Harder than it looks!

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I am a jewelry designer and yes I do my own photography.

3 Sacred Spiral Amethyst cholla

Amethyst Sacred Spiral Earrings

As in the case of most artists who create limited Edition and one-of-a- kind pieces.. It is not cost effective to hire a professional to photograph each design!
So I decided early on to take my own photos. And I can tell you that this became a whole new learning curve for me. I read lots of comments and tutorials online, purchased proper equipment for photographing small objects (jewelry in my case), purchased editing software  and then experimented a lot!
Each time I played around with the process I got just a tiny bit more competent.

Then earlier this year I took a workshop from a real photographer and had to unlearn  and rethink it all. Doug Baldwin, the instructor and photographer for over 30 years, drummed one rule into our heads.. and it finally sunk in.  “Don’t photograph on artsy backgrounds. Customers want to be able to see the product clearly.. they don’t CARE about the surroundings.”  Of course there were lots more helpful hints and insights in the workshop…I improved the way I photographed the gems and learned how to use diffused lighting.  I even ended up purchasing another photography system that I love. 

I live in Arizona and Love the outdoors. So a dried piece of cholla cactus seemed like a great option for a background. As you can see by the two images above… the background, while so cool looking, does not allow you to see the earring design clearly. The image to the left gives you a focused, clean image… so you can decide if this design is a must-have for your own collection.

Here is another example.. Again using the cholla cactus.

2SSSANT cholla Sacred Spiral Pendant

See how much better the image to the right is?

It shows off the texture and beauty (OK so I am a little prejudiced on that) of this pendant!

The Cuff image below is yet another example. Malachite is highlighted and featured prominently in the photo to the left.

Yes, I am still a novice when it comes to photography.. and yes I will continue to learn and improve my photos.

Copper Cuff Malachite cholla

over the next several months, I should have all the images on my site converted over to the newer, cleaner looking images.

My next step is a class on editing. Cannot wait!Malachite Cuff

Check out my jewelry (and the current photos online) and give me your feedback.

Every bit helps me to improve my craft!

 If you liked this blog you may like The Secret Life of a Metal and Hammer Hoarder.

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Comments

  1. Laurien says

    Yes, it is hard taking photographs of jewelry! But also so rewarding, to be able to show them off properly. 😉 I am also learning a lot and it is nice to read about what you are learning, as well as seeing your words illustrated in the pictures that go with it. I agree that in the pictures without the cactus the jewelry stands out much more. Thank you for sharing this information, I’m looking forward to reading more!

    Reply

    • alenegeed says

      thanks Laurien. I agree completely. Once I complete the editing class I am hoping to make more improvements. I have self taught myself the editing process but know there are tips and tricks… and shortcuts that will enhance my process.
      alene

      Reply

  2. JoAnn Williams says

    Thank you for the wonderful tips. I just started using props because I thought it gave the pictures more personality and I wanted to infuse my brand into my pictures. My business cards show a beach scene and I thought shells and driftwood would be good props. I guess I am really confused on how to project my brand. I definitely see your point about the pictures and the pieces do stand out more clearly. Well, I am happy I read your blog before I continued any further. I think I’ll put the driftwood and shells away. And, a class in photography would be helpful too. Thank you so much for the photography tips. I really appreciate your sharing your knowledge.
    JoAnn
    rubylane.com/shop/kaminskijewelrydesigns

    Reply

    • alenegeed says

      Hi JoAnn. I am with you on the background confusion. I really did LOVE my CHOLLA CACTUS background. But selling the jewelry is the objective and I do feel that my photos are so much cleaner and easier to look at now.
      Just keep plugging away. This is a huge learning curve, I Lapidary Journal. He has a couple of DVD’s you can buy and here is his UTUBE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjHeJ3EfMHA

      alene

      Reply

    • alenegeed says

      thanks so much Carrie. What about photos needed for jury selection though? they have to be in a higher resolution than the phone (point and shoot) allows. Just curious if you have used it for that purpose

      Reply

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What People are Saying

I really enjoy wearing my ‘Alene’s Adornments’ spiral earrings. They’re exactly what I want and like in an earring: authentic materials, light weight and beautiful design. I look forward to adding the next item to my collection of Alene’s creations. I highly recommend shopping here if you want beautiful jewelry, along with great service!

Reba Linker

I have bought several sets of earrings designed and made by Alene over the past few years. I am happy with the design and quality of all. Get many compliments when I wear them. also, once ordered the merchandise arrives on time.  Would highly recommend purchasing one of her designs.  Rating “5”.

Joan Alexander

Alene’s creations are not only beautiful, but truly unique. A rare find and appreciated for their one of a kind look and feel. Highly recommend!

Sarah Mckinney

I still have the first pair of earrings I bought from Alene and wear them frequently.  I could  almost open my own store with all the cuffs, earrings, and necklaces I own of Alene’s.  I admire and respect her talent.  It has been  wonderful to watch her jewelry progress over almost 20 years.  What a pleasure  to wear her talent.  Always compliments!!

Peg Doerfler

Alene is extremely talented her pieces are not only amazing they are well made at a reasonable price. She also will create custom pieces for you. I have several of her original and custom made pieces and love them all💞 You will not be disappointed!

Mary Jo Edel

After I purchased my first piece of jewelry from Alene…I was hooked. Her craftsmanship, detail and creativity is above and beyond. I will always look to her for gift ideas, and of course, treasures for myself too. Thanks for sharing your talent with us.

Linda Mangun

I was introduced to Alene’s Adornments through a customer from work (grocery industry). I loved the unique pieces that Alene creates. I purchased a ring and received it gift wrapped and very quickly. The ring is one of my favorites and I receive nice comments when I wear it.

Lynn

Alene has a gift for creating the perfect, unique piece of jewelry. Her ability to combine copper and sterling creates pieces of jewelry that are second to none. Alene then adds pops of color to create a piece that will call your name. Always eagerly await her new designs to see what new amazing piece will call my name.

Robin Meador
I am so thrilled to own several pieces of this Artisans’ creations!
Designs are wonderful and jewelry is well made.
Naomi Flink

I like the uniqueness of Alene’s jewelry and the quality of her craftsmanship! Made with love!

Mary Slusser

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