Coin photography - 2 vs 4 Ott lights-which do you like??

Lakesammman

I purchased 2 more Ott lights and tried some pics tonight. The left pic is with 2 Ott lights, the right with 4. I think the 4 Ott light gives a overall better illumination of the coin. For instance, a tiny spot by the date in the first image is hidden in the relatively dark area. Do you have a preference??

Placid

I like the one on the right better though it dosen't seem as bright.

supercoin

I like the first one, but I think I'd like a 1-light photo more.

The multiple cartwheel thing looks unnatural to me compared to what a coin looks like in real life under normal lighting.

I use one light with a diffuse backdrop (real high-tech, household aluminum foil... use the dull side).

supercoin

PS -- A backdrop might also give you the overall better illumination you're looking for.

Lakesammman

Great idea - will give it a try. Any suggestions for proofs, trying to catch the mirrors??

supercoin

I use the same setup for proofs... a light shining down on the coin at a 45 degree angle, and the hi-tech backdrop on the opposite side of the coin. You can vary the angle of the backdrop to try to get a realistic level of cameo.

I also use a homemade shield of black construction paper with a hole in it that's screwed on between my camera's close-up lens and the camera. That helps prevents extraneous stuff from being reflected in the proof mirrors.

For example: