looking for some input on a setup.. shooting shiny objects

[jbrill]

Hey guys,
Im going to be shooting a product catalogue for a company which carries door handles, locks etc.

Im having a problem with some of the objects as they are extremely shiny.
Just looking for some input, tips on how to shoot these. Below is the current setup I have, as you can see in the last picture, even though it is in the box, im still getting reflection..(these are just VERY quick test shots to show you guys).

the setup:
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b18/dragtruckin/IMG_0686.jpg

the product( 1 of 200 ):
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b18/dragtruckin/IMG_0688.jpg

the product in the box ( notice i still have bad reflection):
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b18/dragtruckin/IMG_0690.jpg

any ideas/tips?

Thanks!

[Jon, The Elder]

A hole the size of your lens in a piece of FoamCore will help but that still leaves the reflection of the lens itself. I'll PM you the secret answer.

[KirkHMB]

I've been told to use hair spray to knock down the shiny spots. ( hope that's not Jon's secret, cuz I just spoiled it.)

[JWright]

You could use a technique known as Cross polarization. This entails placing polarizing material in front of your lights and a polarizing filter on the lens. By turning the filter, you can adjust or even eliminate the amount of reflection in the subject.

There is an article here (http://www.naturescapes.net/042004/wh0404.htm) that describes the technique as it relates to nature photography, but the principles are the same.

This image shows a setup I created several years ago to photograph archaeological artifacts, particularly embossed glass bottles. You can see the polarizing material in front of the lights and the filter on the lens (barely). You can purchase the polarizing gel at any scientific or stage lighting supply company.

http://johnwright.smugmug.com/photos/141124576-M.jpg

[Jon, The Elder]

KirkHMB.....Naw its just the old mirror setup.

Krylon does make a paraffin based spray they call 'dulling spray'. Works well on some things but hard to control spray pattern. Nice thing is that it wipes right off with a clean rag and no residue.

[Mark_Cohran]

Light: Science and Magic, by Fil Hunter and Paul Fuqua specifically addresses this problem in Chapters 3 and 4.

Mark

[PhotosGuy]

the product in the box ( notice i still have bad reflection): With something like that doorknob, which is just a curved mirror, you will get reflections. It's not as "quick & dirty" as using a box, but I prefer to put the reflections I get where I want them to be. Look at the knife & Browning threads here:
FAQ - Studio Lighting (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=66140)

[René Damkot]

Also, it doesn't look 'shiney' anymore if you use a light tent (or dulling spray)...

[poloman]

I think your client is going to want shiny. I think the solution is in controlling what you show reflected. I'd like to know the answer too. :):)

[PhotosGuy]

I'd like to know the answer too. Skipped post #7? ;)

[00silvergt]

But Photosguy that would mean that the poster must look something up...;)

[poloman]

Went back to post 7 ......DOH!
I had looked at these links of yours before. I enjoyed them more this time as I have a little more experience with lighting.