Photographing Paper

I realize this question has probably been asked before but darned if I can find a way to search for it that comes up with what I'm looking for. At any rate, I am graphic designer (mostly print) in addition to many other hats at the moment, and I'm trying to figure out the best ways/equipment to photograph printed pieces for my portfolio. Right now I have a Rebel xT with the kit lens, plus the 100-400mm f/4L. I was considering purchasing the "nifty fifty" also since I don't think either lens I have right now has the capability to do what I would like to, but maybe it does and I'm just clueless since I've been more concentrating on figuring out the zoom lens for aircraft photography! Any direction to another thread or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you

Use a copy stand, you don't need a new lens.

If you only have a few, I'd suggest that you go to a local printer. Otherwise,...
Copying old portraits

Depending on how precise/detailed you want your images.... You could mount your printed items on a wall, set your camera on a tripod at the distance that you want...and shoot.

Ed

Thanks everyone for the advice thus far. I don't think I was quite clear enough in my description of what I want my results to be, though - what I actually need is to photograph things I've had professionally printed for my web portfolio, more like these examples:
https://www.behance.ne​t …of-Commuting-in-Barcelona
https://www.behance.ne​t …d-Guide-Singapore-Edition
https://www.behance.ne​t …7411/FREE-Resume-Template
Rather than isolating just the piece. I can generate JPGS of my work without issue, but I need them in some sort of vignette. If that means setting up a miniature studio I am absolutely open to that, but am pretty clueless about where to start. So maybe the better question rather than what lens I need is what sort of light or diffusers I might need?

Thank you

Ok... Set up a flash to the side of the images/books/magazines and shoot across the paper so the texture and shadows are easily seen? Maybe use a softbox to soften the shadows?

Ed

mrsjetset wrote in post #17619469
what I actually need is to photograph things I've had professionally printed for my web portfolio, more like these examples:

There are several examples there in different styles. Not too helpful.

Set up an example with a light on one side & maybe a white card on the other side to bounce some light in. Take a shot. If it's not what you want, move the light. When you get close to what you want, let us see what you have & maybe we can make a specific suggestion.

Photographing paper.
Paper is smooth and you might have reflection ( glare ) problem.
I use linear polarized film on the bottoms of my soft boxes and a CPL on the lens .

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IMAGE LINK: http://s1110.photobuck​et.com …/029_zps2397bc4​0.jpg.html

IMAGE LINK: http://s1110.photobuck​et.com …%202_zpstyl4haw​q.jpg.html