Rodocrocite
This one is from my personal collection. I did a test shot after I had one of the pieces cut into a 3.76 ct stone. Stay tuned for the others...
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This one is from my personal collection. I did a test shot after I had one of the pieces cut into a 3.76 ct stone. Stay tuned for the others
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Sep, 2014Views
413
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Awards
People's Choice in Objects Before & After Photo Challenge
Peer Award
Superb Composition
Absolute Masterpiece
Outstanding Creativity
Top Choice
Magnificent Capture
Emotions
Impressed
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken in my home studio located in Tennessee. I've been shooting gems and minerals for years and love the challenge of lighting each different species.Time
This shot was taken in the day time using my studio flash equipment. I remember this shot taking days to get the lighting just right, so that the cut gem showed it's magnificent color. Rodocrocite Is one of those gems that has a very specific color and is extremely hard to capture on film.Lighting
Originality I started with a simple small bank light and one light. As I worked more and more with this gems I found I needed to add multiple lights to bring out the shapes and intensity red color. My final light set up was a shaded overhead light and two filtered side light kickers. I also added a bounce card with aluminum foil covering at the front.Equipment
This shot was taken with my Canon 30D set on star-D tripod and a 100 mm lens with extension tube. I used an old set of Whites Lighting studio flash, small bank light, two plastic light filters and bounce cards.Inspiration
I'm always intrigued by lighting gems and minerals to bring out their beauty and colors. Every gem or mineral I shoot brings its own challenges and sometimes I spend days getting the exact shot I want. Gems are especially hard to shoot due to all the facets reflections.Editing
My post processing is always kept to a minimum with just small tweeters to contrast and color. Photoshop and Lightroom are my two main programs.In my camera bag
Depending on where I'm shooting dictates with I bring with me. In this case I was at my studio, so I had all my equipment available.Feedback
If I could give any advise when shooting gems and minerals just start. Each gem or mineral willl bring its own challenges and it's this adventure that keeps me interested.
