Photographing Badges with a Light Box
 

Hello,

I am seeking advice from those with the skills in photography.

I need to record my collection and the photos need to be suitable for reproducing in a book or catalogue and therefore no shadows and even lighting all over.

I have experimented in the past with tents and various types of flash but nothing really worked.

I see that there are now these shadow free light boxes such as this Light Tec one.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Light-Tec-P.../dp/B072JXMGS9

Has anyone used one of these, what are the results like and just as importantly would a Helmet Plate fit?

Any help gratefully received.

thanks

Hi Simon,
I have generally just used my flat bed scanner to take pics of badges. get a pretty good picture of the badge and if you need than use editing software to remove the background. Its probably not the best for publishing in a book, but good enough for me.

Steven

Simon,

I can't speak to the specific light box in your link but I think in general a light box is right up there to give the best results. Certainly the photos for my book were all done that way (albeit with a professional photographer behind the lens, not me!)

I've tried other ways and always end up with some shadow and hence lots of photoshop editing..

If there are other ways that give great results I would be all ears too.

Michael

Thanks lads

I have a similar problem, and while acknowledging scanners are OK for cloth, they are (in my limited experience) not up to standard for badges that are not completely flat - lugged, sliders to reverse etc.

Another major part of the equation is the form of camera. After numerous enquiries to those whose badge images I admire (may are contributors to this forum) - there is a confusing mix of digital cameras and mobile telephone recommendations.

I also have to find a background removal package I am totally happy with. I have not experimented much, but am told a background that completely contrasts with the badge is best to apply a removal package to. Someone suggested garish shades of green - that really contrast with the end result you are seeking with background removed.

I am a complete novice with photography, so will follow this thread with interest. One thought is the suggested light box appears a little over the top, but one appears necessary in most recommendations - but possibly cheaper. Of course I do not know how big the improvements may be with upgraded equipment - sometimes it could be relatively marginal perhaps - but a light box appears a must for consistency, although many people I have corresponded with say you simply can not beat natural light ...

Hoping this is helpful, and that we (the forum) can arrive at an optimal recommended system.

Mike

Simon,

I use a good digital camera to photograph badges. If you have a copy of any of my books you will see the results. Perhaps not as good as a light box but good enough. After photographing I clean them up using "photoshop".

I take the photos in daylight, no sun, on a white background, usually on a foam board into which the lugs sink easily. I had to lie down after seeing the price of light boxes!!

Dave.

I know a few dealers have made their own light boxes, Geoff Newman and Philip Heeks if I recall. Whilst they may be a bit Blue Peter they work and in my opinion their photos come out well at what will be a fraction of the cost.

Having just received a copy of Dave's book on Special Constabulary Insignia, i think the images are high quality - all in all, a very nice, useful, reference work, no doubt definitive in its field.

Dave,

If I could achieve the quality of the badges in your books I would be well chuffed. I do use a good digital SLR and have a quality macro lens, tripod, a variety of separate flashes, but always get shadow and glare.

I will try the foam board outdoors method and see if I can improve.

regards

Simon,

Keep at it and you will get the knack. Some badges are more difficult than others. I've found that using a flash causes more problems. Take them outside in a good light, but not in the sun. Stand the foam board up and lean it against something, that way you will avoid shadow.

Dave.

Will do Dave, thanks