How-to Photograph Jewelry: Get the Basics with Vadjutka

Vanessa

Story by Vanessa

Published on June 04, 2008 in Seller Handbook

Photo by violetbella

Vanessa


vadjutka.etsy.com recently submitted a piece on Hungarian traditional and contemporary crafts for the Etsy World Tour series.  Turns out she has worked as a professional photojournalist. She now sells her jewelry on Etsy, and so she has some crucial tips for jewelry sellers who want to take great photos of their items.  Read on, sellers, for more on exposure, background, angles, and more.…

I think most jewelry makers have faced this problem at least once: how to take a good photo and how to style that photo to make the most of an item. In the next few paragraphs I’ll try to sum up the practices I learned as a photojournalist — which could be useful for photographing still subjects like jewelry.

1. Light: Sharp vs. Smooth Shadows
There you are, with a beautiful piece of jewelry, ready to take some photos and list it in your shop. Right before you push the button on your camera, there are a few things that might be good to consider: for example, the angle of the light coming from outside (or inside), and the shadow it casts on your item. Some may like sharp lines, others may like smooth. For those who belong to the first group, natural light it is best, and it is useful to take pictures around noon, when the sun is high. Those who prefer smooth lines should shoot in the morning or after 4 pm.

Sharp, defined shadows:
.
[Dangle earrings by fantcastle]

[Crown necklace by spicychocolate ]

Smooth, diffused shadows:

[earrings by shimmerglassjewelry]


[Mushroom ring by ctseibels]

Of course, most of us don’t have time to wait for the perfect sunlight to arrive. What can we do if we only have time to shoot in the early evening, when the light is not so bright, but we don’t want an underexposed grey picture as a result? We shall use the flash, but not directly — and ever so carefully! Using flash directly makes very bright white spots on the picture, because the light of the flash is not diffused to different directions. So either we can put a smaller white plastic card on the flash to diffuse light, or if it is not possible, cover the flash with a white tissue. It will result a brighter picture but without the distracting, overexposed bright spots.

2. Correcting the photometer
If your camera allows you to adjust it manually, don’t be afraid to use it. At first it might seem a bit difficult, but one can learn it quite quickly. There are two main “numbers” we have to deal with: the shutter speed (the duration of time the shutter is opened) — its values are marked with 1/125, 1/60, 1/30 etc. — and the F-stop (the amount of light coming into the camera’s aperture) — its values are marked with numbers like 2,2, 2,8, 3,5, 5,6 etc.

Don’t panic about having to measure these values manually, as the photometer built into the camera does it for us. Though built-in photometers react quickly — my photometer measures on nine different spots — at the end of the measuring process we get an average number. This means that if we do not correct the measurement a little bit, we might get a photo with over or underexposed spots.

If we want the darker spots to be more detailed, we have to add a bit more light: either with a lower f-stop or with a lower shutter-speed. Consequently, we do the opposite in case of overexposed spots — for example, when taking photos of a white, glittering or very bright jewelry, we add one or one-and-half to the measured values of the photometer, which means higher numbers of f-number and shutter-speed.


[measured by photometer and altered values, photo by vadjutka.etsy.com]

If we sit in a quite dark room, and all f-stops are gone (which means that the shutter is opened to its maximum size), we still have opportunities by letting in more light with an even lower shutter speed number. As far as I know, most people can make a sharp picture with the maximum value 1/30 of a second for shutter speed; below that, photos become blurred. So if the picture requires longer than that, we should use a tripod…or stabilize our hands on a sturdy object (in extreme situations it can be our knees, as well), hold back breathing, and shoot!

LINKS:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F-number
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shutter_speed

3. Go closer! – Making a photo essay
When I was in photography school, my teacher always asked me: “What do you want to say with these distant pictures? Go closer!” Luckily enough, we can get close quite easily when shooting jewelry, thus easily fulfilling what my teacher always wanted: one close-up picture showing details of the item, and one “big picture,” showing the whole item its environment, or on a model. We should also take some photos from different angles: what does the item look like from the back, or from the sides? It is like telling a story, except in pictures and not in words.


[by yasminbochi]


[by lesthings]


[by juliery]

4. Background: patterns vs. white
An important part of telling the story of your jewelry in pictures is the background of the photo. Browsing Etsy, we can find a few main types of backgrounds: plain white, solid color backgrounds, and non-white, patterned backgrounds — usually with flowers, shapes or letters. The plain white background has an advantage: it is easier to photograph, and easier to take in visually. Using white as background has one more advantage: it intensifies the light, so it can help in taking photos of a darker item. We can use a plain white sheet for photography — that is what I do, or a white box (see here for a how-to).

An example of a white box:

[photo by panyizsuzsi.etsy.com]

white backgrounds:

[fabric necklace by fabricfarrago]


[polymer pendant necklace by jkollmann]


[ring by KelbelleDesigns]

The advantage of a non-white background is that a good background adds a special meaning and an atmosphere to the jewelry, thus creating its own little world. Make sure to consider the look and feel of your shop as a whole. Ask yourself, “Does this background work with the overall branding and image I want for my work? Will my target buyers relate to it?”

non-white backgrounds:

[ring by pocketfullofpoesy]


[Cherry Drop earrings by nicoleleeartistry]


[necklace by TheHandOfFatima]

These are just some general tips. Within these constraints, the photographer can really get creative and best of all — let the jewelry shine as the center of attention.

Here’s a link to other photo how-tos on the Storque. Add any of your favorite tips in the comments below!

Discuss: 130 comments

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  • panyizsuzsi

    panyizsuzsi says:

    Cool article Jutka! Thanks for mentioning my light box!

    3 years ago

  • revolverse

    revolverse says:

    great overview! thank you for the tips.

    3 years ago

  • CT2Designs

    CT2Designs says:

    VERY informational, thanks for this article. off to make me a light box :-)

    3 years ago

  • CatholicGuilt

    CatholicGuilt says:

    Thank you for an excellent informative article. I plan on putting some of your tips to use. Delia

    3 years ago

  • pendantflair

    pendantflair says:

    thank you! you broke it down so well it makes me feel like, "yes, I can do this too."

    3 years ago

  • CreativeRampage

    CreativeRampage says:

    Very imformative indeed! I'll finally sit down and figure out how to set the shutter speed & F-stop, thanks for the encouraging article.

    3 years ago

  • DistressingDelilah

    DistressingDelilah says:

    Thank you for some great information!

    3 years ago

  • tamdoll

    tamdoll says:

    Thanks for the great tips & beautiful photos!

    3 years ago

  • Gillking

    Gillking says:

    Awesome! Im just in the midst of taking pictures of my jewelry before I open my shop and this article offered a lot of suggestions for things I was stumped on! Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • shineohla

    shineohla says:

    Wow! This article was AMAZING!!! I am in the very beginning process of setting up my shop (ie: stockpiling inventory, photographing said inventory, and getting an overall feel for etsy) and this was not only informative (I just bought my first digital camera this year) but inspirational as well! Kudos to Jutka and EVERYONE involved with etsy! I can't wait to be an official seller!

    3 years ago

  • mizusugi

    mizusugi says:

    Great details! Thank you!

    3 years ago

  • babypeasandcarrots

    babypeasandcarrots says:

    Thanks so much for the great tips!

    3 years ago

  • LANYARDLADY

    LANYARDLADY says:

    Because of my schedule most of my photos are taken inside with artificial light. Your light box suggestion will help me do a better job! Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • jrgoddess

    jrgoddess says:

    Thanks for all the useful tips. I agree with Lanyardlady, because I really need to make a light box to impe my pictures. Thanks again!

    3 years ago

  • yosemitevintage

    yosemitevintage says:

    Thanks so much for sharing and caring. You have just blessed my life. I immediately tried the tissue over my flash on my digital camera and I am so happy with the results. Great for indoors. Thank you Thank you Thank you.

    3 years ago

  • PaisleyChainsaw

    PaisleyChainsaw says:

    This is a great article jewellery can be so hard to photograph. Thank you for all the great tips.

    3 years ago

  • ZenGarden

    ZenGarden says:

    Thank you so much. I've yet to take photos of my items...not being sure what the best backgrounds would be. Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • vadjutka

    vadjutka says:

    Hi Everyone! I am really glad that you can/could use the tips! Please feel free to convo me, if you have any questions on photography. Keep shooting! :-) Judit

    3 years ago

  • annarubyking

    annarubyking says:

    Really excellent article, and great pictures! thanks!

    3 years ago

  • mksupplies

    mksupplies says:

    Great article, I loved that tip about how to diffuse the flash when you don't have another good light source!

    3 years ago

  • kmguswiler

    kmguswiler says:

    Photographing has been my biggest struggle - Very helpful, and thanks for easing the "struggle!"

    3 years ago

  • TheHandOfFatima

    TheHandOfFatima says:

    great tips! and thanks for adding me! xoxox

    3 years ago

  • yasminbochi

    yasminbochi says:

    Great article Jutka, very helpful tips and easy to understand! Thank you so much for the feature! :)

    3 years ago

  • yaelfran

    yaelfran says:

    love lesthings!!!!!

    3 years ago

  • roseworksjewelry

    roseworksjewelry says:

    Thanks for all the tips! That's one part of my shop I really want to work on.

    3 years ago

  • CourtneyWatson

    CourtneyWatson says:

    Thank you for this- I need all the help I can get with my photos (;

    3 years ago

  • chainchainchained

    chainchainchained says:

    if you can't get the light right there is always photoshop.

    3 years ago

  • gilbea

    gilbea says:

    Great pictures and tips =)

    3 years ago

  • KrillaGlass

    KrillaGlass says:

    Great article! Making good item photos is tough, jewelry photos tougher and glass jewelry photos are toughest. Good job with yours Jutka BTW.

    3 years ago

  • 108ways

    108ways says:

    Glad you mentioned showing jewelry items on a model -- this is something I would love to see more of on Etsy. With a model (even if it's just a neck-shaped stand, or a wig form or whatever) you get a sense of the item's scale, and how it actually "wears" on the body, that is impossible to get from a shot of just the item alone, no matter how beautiful the jewelry is (or the picture of it). Thanks for a good article!

    3 years ago

  • lunaticart

    lunaticart says:

    Thanks for all the tips!!!!!!

    3 years ago

  • MAKUstudio

    MAKUstudio says:

    Thank you! Always trying to improve my photo skills!

    3 years ago

  • jkcreativedesigns

    jkcreativedesigns says:

    Great article. Thanks so much for this. I'm going to make a light box right now!

    3 years ago

  • SapphireLizard

    SapphireLizard says:

    Fabulous article! Thanks for the tips!

    3 years ago

  • shoutrinse

    shoutrinse says:

    Thanks for the useful advice!

    3 years ago

  • sirenedelmare

    sirenedelmare says:

    What a wonderful and helpful article!!! Thanks so much!!!

    3 years ago

  • jewelryfetishlv

    jewelryfetishlv says:

    Thanks for the article.....It will help with future pictures.

    3 years ago

  • flowersbyfarha

    flowersbyfarha says:

    Thank you, a great article. I'd like to know more about shooting against white background. I find it really hard to see the item/detail on many of those photos--they often seem overexposed with no clear edge (not enough shadow?) Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • threadsofkarma

    threadsofkarma says:

    this article helps! but i have one more question. i am having difficulty getting clear pictures... all i have is a digital camera... any tips?

    3 years ago

  • fjonesart

    fjonesart says:

    I'm going back to reshoot all of my paintings! You really had some great tips!

    3 years ago

  • thewishingwell

    thewishingwell says:

    Great photos! Thanks so much for all the tips!

    3 years ago

  • thecharmedlamb

    thecharmedlamb says:

    Just the kinds of tips I was looking for! Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • IrenaSophia

    IrenaSophia says:

    Excellent article, lots of great tips. Thank you.

    3 years ago

  • wartpiggydesigns

    wartpiggydesigns says:

    Very helpful. Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • swati

    swati says:

    Great article, the pictures I've been taking of my jewelry for etsy need work. Your advice should really help! I'm off now to try the white box :) Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • midnightstarglass

    midnightstarglass says:

    thanx for the tips!!

    3 years ago

  • AGlimpseofHeaven

    AGlimpseofHeaven says:

    This is very helpful thanks!!

    3 years ago

  • Buttonear

    Buttonear says:

    Thank you for the tips - you have given me some great ideas.

    3 years ago

  • GalvezBijoux

    GalvezBijoux says:

    Thank you so much for the important information!!

    3 years ago

  • clairelueders

    clairelueders says:

    Great Article, thanks so much!

    3 years ago

  • lyndee495

    lyndee495 says:

    Thank you for this info. My pic's need help. I'm going to try the light box and a different background.

    3 years ago

  • ShelbyLynnDesigns

    ShelbyLynnDesigns says:

    HUGE help...Thank you!

    3 years ago

  • moonpics

    moonpics says:

    Very useful, thanks so much!

    3 years ago

  • princessjewels1

    princessjewels1 says:

    Thanks for sharing!!!

    3 years ago

  • NewLifeDesigns

    NewLifeDesigns says:

    Thanks for the info!!

    3 years ago

  • krystalsbykrystallee

    krystalsbykrystallee says:

    more great info. thanks

    3 years ago

  • Dianahayden

    Dianahayden says:

    This was very informative. Thanks

    3 years ago

  • surfjewels

    surfjewels says:

    Thanks, any tips are useful, it can be tricky photographing jewellery Handmade ethical jewellery: http://surfjewels.webhosting-for-free.com

    3 years ago

  • SimplySusanJewelry

    SimplySusanJewelry says:

    Tips very much appreciated :)

    3 years ago

  • KentwoodKreations

    KentwoodKreations says:

    Thanks for sharing your tips.

    3 years ago

  • ContagiousCreations

    ContagiousCreations says:

    Thank You so much!! This is all such valuable info that I really need to read over and remember. I pu this in my favorites and am for sure coming back to it next time I'm ready to photograph my jewelry.

    3 years ago

  • AWEshop

    AWEshop says:

    Oh my gosh. I cannot decide if I want to do a white background or a texture/patter background. The examples you give of both are great. I'll have to try both out, I guess. I think because I use a lot of silver, maybe white isn't so great.

    3 years ago

  • karla100

    karla100 says:

    I am not good with photos and I bought a lightbox, but have no idea how to use it. Is there a how-to for that?

    3 years ago

  • AzitasSurprises

    AzitasSurprises says:

    thanks for sharing your tips.

    3 years ago

  • CreativeArtCenter

    CreativeArtCenter says:

    Very nice. Thank you.

    3 years ago

  • InSmallSpectacles

    InSmallSpectacles says:

    Thanks for the tips-very helpful.

    3 years ago

  • jewelsforhope

    jewelsforhope says:

    Thanks for the tips, will try them.

    2 years ago

  • rls16

    rls16 says:

    sorry but that lip ring gives me the creeps.

    2 years ago

  • SoapyPleasure

    SoapyPleasure says:

    Great tips!! Thank you so much for sharing...

    2 years ago

  • maslinda

    maslinda says:

    very very usefull info.thank you!

    2 years ago

  • underoakstudios

    underoakstudios says:

    Thanks! Didn't know to cover the flash. I'll try that one for sure!

    2 years ago

  • BelovedDesignsStuff

    BelovedDesignsStuff says:

    It was interesting to compare different shots of the same item and the lightbox I love!

    2 years ago

  • GaryFrase

    GaryFrase says:

    Thanks, I am struggling with my photos and this will help!

    2 years ago

  • BigDogLittleDog

    BigDogLittleDog says:

    This is so helpful because I am struggling to get really good pictures of the buttons. Thank you.

    2 years ago

  • ThreeTwistedTrees

    ThreeTwistedTrees says:

    Thanks for the tips. I've been using both natural light and a light box, but have had real problems with when to use/not use a flash. Reflections on either the silver or the gemstones have been a headache. Would never have thought of a tissue to diffuse the light!

    2 years ago

  • ArtfoolDesigns

    ArtfoolDesigns says:

    So much to learn, thanks.

    2 years ago

  • AmaliArt

    AmaliArt says:

    Thank you, I'll go make a white box right now :)

    2 years ago

  • TinksTreasure

    TinksTreasure says:

    Thank you for taking the time to put this out for those of us that really need the help. I appreciate it :)

    2 years ago

  • LittleMillieBoutique

    LittleMillieBoutique says:

    I really need to use this information! Gotta start with a new camera though:o)

    2 years ago

  • gabeadz

    gabeadz says:

    Thank you!

    2 years ago

  • ayawedding

    ayawedding says:

    wonderful share thank you Judit

    2 years ago

  • AnOpenHeaven

    AnOpenHeaven says:

    I love the white box and various colored backgrounds, great look! Thanks, Marie

    2 years ago

  • ArtMind

    ArtMind says:

    wow Judit, I only saw this now and it's fab information! You're sich a clever girl! Thanks for sharing! :)

    2 years ago

  • Emilynn

    Emilynn says:

    Still trying with photos......finding daylight globes work.

    2 years ago

  • kReneeDesigns

    kReneeDesigns says:

    Thanks for the tips! I have been struggling with my photo-taking.

    2 years ago

  • TrueJune

    TrueJune says:

    Judit, This is just the tutorial I have been looking for! Thanks for being so clear and encouraging. Who knew we suddenly had to become experts in photography??!!! I'm on my way now!

    2 years ago

  • TrueJune

    TrueJune says:

    Make that Jutka! Sorry!

    2 years ago

  • BeadifferentJewelry

    BeadifferentJewelry says:

    Helpful ideas, thank you!

    2 years ago

  • MysticStarDesigns

    MysticStarDesigns says:

    Excellent tips will try some out thx!

    2 years ago

  • skatkat11

    skatkat11 says:

    Can't wait to try your tips. Thanks for the clear advice!

    2 years ago

  • monkeyfuzz

    monkeyfuzz says:

    I've been having trouble getting the up-close images to be anything other than blurry. My stuff wont sell because of the blurry pictures. I have very fine details to my jewelry pieces that i want people to see, but the closer I get, the more blurry it gets.

    1 year ago

  • FOXJEWELS

    FOXJEWELS says:

    Love all the wonderful ideas and suggestions and the before and afters. It really does help so much Thanks :) Now how to fihure out how to exchange the old phto listed and insert the newer version of phoyo ;)any suggestions still new at this as you can tell LOL Thanks a Bunch !!!

    1 year ago

  • stardawndesigns

    stardawndesigns says:

    I am definitely going to make my own white box! I had been using small swatches of fabric but they grab lint and get wrinkled so easily. Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • daisyberry

    daisyberry says:

    Inspirational ^^ Thanks for the wonderful tips!

    1 year ago

  • BRHDesigns

    BRHDesigns says:

    Thank you for the light box idea! I've tried many backgrounds, and usually end up disappointed, but this one might work for me.

    1 year ago

  • LashaBrown

    LashaBrown says:

    Excellent tips! I've had issues with flash glare on my photos, but after reading this I retook some pictures and they came out much better.

    1 year ago

  • trinityrocks

    trinityrocks says:

    Wicked!

    1 year ago

  • CharmsCityCompany

    CharmsCityCompany says:

    I've been trying some different backgrounds, now I should try some different times of day for natural sunlight. Thanks for the tips.

    1 year ago

  • AndreaFuentesDesigns

    AndreaFuentesDesigns says:

    good stuff! thanks for the article!

    1 year ago

  • DalkullanJewelry

    DalkullanJewelry says:

    Thanks for the photo tips!

    1 year ago

  • antiquetochic

    antiquetochic says:

    Tons of useful information about taking pictures of my jewelry. I need to go make a lightbox now! Thank you for your advice.

    1 year ago

  • creationsbyana

    creationsbyana says:

    Thank you for your tips. This is one area that I have been struggling with.

    1 year ago

  • Colettesboutique

    Colettesboutique says:

    Great information. Thank you.

    1 year ago

  • contempojewels

    contempojewels says:

    Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • PoconoPrincessJewels

    PoconoPrincessJewels says:

    Thanks for all of the great tips.

    1 year ago

  • knottyandnyce

    knottyandnyce says:

    Great article. Thanks for all the tips and the great accompanying photos.

    1 year ago

  • onthewallusa

    onthewallusa says:

    Thanks tons. You just set off a light bulb of ideas to try.

    1 year ago

  • chariT

    chariT says:

    Thanks so much for sharing! The pictures are beautiful! Going to try out that white box too!! :) Stay beautiful and blessed!!

    1 year ago

  • MysticFireJewelry

    MysticFireJewelry says:

    Great suggestions! I believe I will give it a go. Thanks so much!

    1 year ago

  • Auntdelta

    Auntdelta says:

    Great tips and beautifully photographed items.Thanks.

    1 year ago

  • storiginals46

    storiginals46 says:

    Thanks so much for the great tips!

    1 year ago

  • storiginals46

    storiginals46 says:

    Thanks so much for the great tips!

    1 year ago

  • DestinyAccessory

    DestinyAccessory says:

    Thanks - need all the help I can get!!

    1 year ago

  • 14sparkle28

    14sparkle28 says:

    Do most of you jewelry sellers use macro lenses to get so close? My photos are blurry if I get too close. Not sure if I need to buy a new camera.

    1 year ago

  • NeoArtifax

    NeoArtifax says:

    really super ideas in this one!

    1 year ago

  • SigalFJewelry

    SigalFJewelry says:

    Using a light box is a great tip! so far I used a sheet and it's not that comfortable. Thx for the good tips!

    1 year ago

  • code11

    code11 says:

    Thank you - it's all need to me.

    1 year ago

  • yooounique

    yooounique says:

    Thank you! It is very useful.

    1 year ago

  • albrown54

    albrown54 says:

    Thank you, so much! Just in time, too.

    341 days ago

  • StoneTones

    StoneTones says:

    Great tips! I'm now working on making my own little white box!

    317 days ago

  • TreeMarJewelry

    TreeMarJewelry says:

    Thank you for the photography information! It will really help me.

    313 days ago

  • lovesixties

    lovesixties says:

    FAB thanks so much. Have never really got the whole apertures thing relating it to jewelry makes it really easy! Groovy.

    307 days ago

  • monistras

    monistras says:

    Off to try your tips... tnx

    287 days ago

  • ahmusing

    ahmusing says:

    Thanks for the article! I am really struggling with pictures for jewelry right now...I hope to improve it with your tips!

    253 days ago

  • terracatt

    terracatt says:

    Thank you!

    239 days ago

  • GemdropsoftheFalls

    GemdropsoftheFalls says:

    Wonderful advice. Thank you so much for sharing these tips specifically for us jewelers! :)

    233 days ago

  • lilykate3

    lilykate3 says:

    I create fused glass jewelry and really enjoyed your article. I have a question: when photographing my jewelry with a point and shoot digital, I'm using the macro setting in a light box with no flash. I'm happy with the results,but when I post the photos online, I would prefer to have the jewelry show as close to the actual size as possible. How do I do that? Thank you!

    232 days ago

  • seedal

    seedal says:

    thanks I make a lot of jewelry and spend so many hours improving the pics i take i end up not having enough time to list them. Ill try the white box that looks like it might work. the only question I have is how do you photograph jewelry that is sparkly ,like crystals or diamonds and let it show up as beautiful as is really is??

    208 days ago

  • fdabbs

    fdabbs says:

    Thanks so much for the tips.I will be trying them.

    173 days ago

  • Livieslovelies

    Livieslovelies says:

    Awesome tips. I guess I will get a good camera with the proceeds of my next sales. Thanks!

    172 days ago