Secrets of Good Lighting in Guitar Photography

[jps]

Basically, What Kira is saying is to watch out for unwanted reflections on the instrument, as the glossy finish acts like a mirror. it is important to look at the whole "picture", not just the instrument, itself.

[8mileshigher]

Thanks to everyone who has posted their ideas and advice
A lot of good insight and technique have been shared ... hope we get a few more comments posted.

Anyone have comments about guitar photography outdoors and the benefit of using the shady side of the yard (for a more consistent, balanced, neutral light) as compared to being "in the sun" itself where those mirror effects, glare and background reflections come into play more ? From several postings I've seen, a lot of folks are taking their pictures with the Rics sitting in the sun.

I appreciate Collin's suggestions about overcast and early morning time, for best outdoor shots.

[kiramdear]

Basically, What Kira is saying is to watch out for unwanted reflections on the instrument, as the glossy finish acts like a mirror. it is important to look at the whole "picture", not just the instrument, itself.

Yeah, what he said.

[collin]

Anyone have comments about guitar photography outdoors and the benefit of using the shady side of the yard (for a more consistent, balanced, neutral light) as compared to being "in the sun" itself where those mirror effects, glare and background reflections come into play more ? From several postings I've seen, a lot of folks are taking their pictures with the Rics sitting in the sun.

I'd suggest the shade if it's not overcast outside.


I think direct sunlight is either complimentary, or makes it look 1000X worse (good sunlight pictures are rare). The main problem is that direct harsh sunlight will alter the "true" color of many instruments (particularly reds or sunbursts), making them appear much brighter than they are normally.

[winston]

I do not have any expertise when it comes to photography, but I turn my flash off and try to obtain a backdrop that adds to the shot by making the guitar the central figure of the photograph in context of the overall the depth of field.

A recent example (my new to me 330):

Like I said I am no expert but you can see the colour of the guitar quite well. The 330 is a bit nicer in real life but I discovered that this is a tough colour to capture.

[jps]

When photographing in the shade for that nice soft light, be wary of the cooler color cast due to the light coming primarily from the blue sky, unless you live on Mars, then you will have a nice warm look to the instrument. This can, of course, be corrected in photo editing software.

[libratune]

IMO bright sun is best for bringing out the flame in the wood if that's what you are going for. However, with bright sun comes reflections and shadows. If you're using direct sunlight, I would recommend taking your photos around noon, when the sun is high in the sky. For flame shots I lay the guitar down in its case (or propped up on its side in the case) and move it around until I get the optimum effect of the sun on the flame without shadows, minimal glare and the right camera angle.

Here are some examples:

370-12 RM MG

660-12 AFG

381/12V69 MB

330-12 FG 1968

[8mileshigher]

Wow, that 381-12V69 MB is sweet !!!
Great photography, Ron
It's hard to keep my own thread on focus of "technical" aspects of lighting .... when Forumites start posting great pics of these dreamy Rics in their collections !!!

[Danotron]

Wow Ron, great pictures!

I especially like the '68 330-12, you don't see flame like that on those very often.

[collin]

I especially like the '68 330-12, you don't see flame like that on those very often.

+1

I remember that one from last year, with the painted soundhole.

[xpitt]

Wow, Ron ! That RM looks marvellous ! And if you ever want to get rid of that Monte 381/12 send me a message ....

BTW: How can I post the pics in small size with the enlarge option ?


This one was shot against the sunlight but with a flash to get the shiny effects on the toaster covers.


This one with the sun. Nice effect on the vibrato arm.

[cjj]

BTW: How can I post the pics in small size with the enlarge option ?

Instead of using the "Img" button, you use the "Upload Attachment" tab below the Submit button area...

[libratune]

BTW: How can I post the pics in small size with the enlarge option ?

Thanks everyone for the compliments. On the guitars, that is.

As to your question Alex, you dont' use photobucket or a hosting service but upload the pics directly from your hard drive using the RRF format/tools, as CJJ pointed out.

I sent you a PM with the steps I use. Maybe it will be of some help.

[xpitt]

Thanks, CJ and Ron (..for helpful PM) !
I'll try next time !

[fireglo67]

Alex, you have an amazing collection!
I love the modifications you've done.
More pictures please!