Taking pictures

We are learning how to take pictures of the stoneware, and wow, what a learning curve. Getting the lighting right, the angle of the shot, and all the variables of the camera takes a lot of time. Then once you get a halfway decent shot you can spend another 15 minutes adjusting it on the computer. It really gives you an appreciation for good photos.

Here is the process:

First we set the lights up and the white box. The most important aspect is the lighting. Too much, and it shows up as glare when you get the shot in the computer. Too little and its dark and doesn't show enough detail. We also have to decide the background, usually black or white, depending on the color of the piece. The closer you can get to a final shot without using a photo program the better.

Then we adjust the angle of the piece and distance of the camera on the tripod. This varies a lot with the pottery due to differences in size.

Next we take the shot, usually starting with the portrait setting and going from there. From there its trial and error to get the right settings. After seeing a few shots come out we are able to narrow it down to a good camera setting for that style of work, and then it becomes more of a rhythm.

From there its a slight adjustment in our photo program, and on to the website. So far the blue and white collection from Lee Davis has been the most forgiving to our amateur efforts. Next we'll try Erin's work using a black background.