I used to be a studio photographer and have a couple of tricks I think you all you can use if you want.
The trick isn't more light. It's where the light is coming from, AND the "size" of the light source.
There are 2 easy ways to take pics of really shiny objects.
Remember to look at the object from the cameras viewfinder before you take the picture to see exactly how the reflection will look when you do take the picture!!
The best way to photograph a shiny object is to have it completly surrounded by a non-reflective black blockade. I use a big box (3' x 3' x 3', or bigger if you can get one) and have it painted completly flat black inside.
Then cut a few flaps in the box in different places on the front of the box, and a couple on the forward part of the box top. One of the flaps will need to be on the front, about 10" or 12" from the bottom, and big enough that you can put the whole camera face into the opening (you don't want to block the autofocus beam)
Get 1 or 2 of those blue daylight lightbulbs.
The flaps need to be about 2-3 times the size of the lightbulb.
Pull open a flap and shine the light into the box, with the light just outside of the box.
You can move the light around the flap to get just the right amount of light bouncing off of the object and at an angle that you like the light reflecting they way you want it to.
You can also move the object around a little inside the box as well to get it "just right" If the light is still too bright just take some white handkerchiefs and tape over the flap opening to soften the light. You can even use a couple of lights from different flaps to cast shadowed light.
Turn the camera's flash OFF.
Point your camera thru the flap cut out for the camera, on a mini tripod, or even on a stack of books.
You can take your pic and make it look like you have been doing this all of your life.
The 2nd way is to simply go out on your front porch on a mostly cloudy day (to eliminate the reflections from the direct sun).
Put a couple of blankets (Black or White work best since they won't cast any odd color on your object)up on 2 sides.
Put a white sheet or cloth behind you with a hole cut in the center - (don't let your wife or girlfrind see you cut the hole in it though!)
You can use a Light Blue cloth if you are shooting chrome, for better color.
Move the object around inside the area to get the light and reflections just right.
With a little practice and patience you can easily take picture that look like they came out of a high end photography studio (they won't tell you their secrets, but I will).
If you are having trouble getting the results you want, e-mail me with a couple of your pics and I can probably help you out. Or you can take your pics to a local camera store and they will usually help you, explaining how to get the best shots.
It's in their best interest for you to get great pics, so they can print enlargments.
Take your pictures and share them with us.
You might even want to look at framing and hanging your pictures in your trophy room or shop. Then you can enjoy your guns - even when they are in the safe.
So far the pics here are great!
If you want more info or help, you can PM me or e-mail me for answers.
