I am new to the world of photography (got my first SLR in August), but have offered to help a non profit my husband is involved with. They are having an auction in a few weeks and I am going to run a slideshow during the auction of the items for sale. They have never had this before so they are thrilled with anything I can do, but my perfectionist habits are taking over and I would like to do my absolute best with what I have available.
Some of the auction items I am going straight to the manufacturer/supplier to obtain photos for the slideshow.
BUT, many of the items are original framed works of art that I personally need to take photos of (in the frames). SOME of them I need to take photos of the DAY of the auction, so I need to be able to work remotely and with minor editing involved on my laptop.
Here is the equipment I have now, and I would like to avoid spending additional money since I am doing this for free. I am hoping to be able to find a dark room/area to take photos of the objects at the auction location, but that is not guaranteed.
-Rebel T1i
-Canon 50mm f/1.4 lens
-Canon 18-55mm lens (the package lens)
-Tripod
-Two inexpensive portable umbrella lights with 35w 5500k daylight bulbs currently
Like I said, I am new to photography, so I am gradually adding supplies and learning techniques.
Any tips on the best way to go about this? I have researched setting up the umbrella lights at particular angles and distance to avoid reflections. Backgrounds are new to me, and my head is swimming.
I will have access to folding tables, any advice for an inexpensive cover if I use these as a stand?
Any thoughts would be MUCH appreciated. I am going to start practicing this week with the items I have on hand already.
Thanks in advance!!!

