Ricoh Camera Question

FrattLaw

IS the 4200 just as good for macro as the 4300?

Thanks
Michael

MW Fattorosi Collection

coinlover

ttt. I'm curious about this question too. This is the camera I have. I'm just learning how to photograph coins. So far it's difficult to get anywhere close to a good, accurate picture.
Karen

Russ

Sorry I missed this one when originally posted. I use the 4300 myself, but haven't used the 4200. As far as I know, the two cameras are identical with the exception that the 4200 does not have the sound recording options and it will use 16MB media, where the 4300 will use only up to 8MB. So, it should be just as good for shooting coins.

Russ, NCNE

coinlover

Thanks Russ. I'll keep working on the pics.
Karen

nwcs

I use the 4300, too. Some important tips:

1. Indirect light works well for capturing color
2. Set the white balance for bulbs (menu->white source->bulb) and it will correct some of the color shift you see when you snap the pic
3. Photoshop or other program to color correct is a good idea
4. Take pics from different angles because usually it takes 20-30 to make 1 great one

onthespot

and use a tripod and the timer, and then hold your breath when it is about to shoot. that is what I do...

Russ

The nice thing about the Ricoh, (or annoying, depending on how you look at it), is that the shutter has a short delay after hitting the button. This pretty much eliminates the need for a remote or a timer. But, a tripod of some sort is definitely a must for shooting macro. I use a copy stand that faces the camera downward so the coin can lay flat.

I've also been playing with different colors for background and reflectivity lately. I went to the fabric store and picked up various cloth in black, white, green, red and blue. I've found that a green background with white reflectivity seems to work the best for cameo'd proofs:



One of the problems I was having with these was bringing out the lettering. This color combination seems to help.

Still working on other combinations for different coin types; particularly old copper. It gives me fits.

Russ, NCNE