Photography of Small Objects / Basic Tabletop Studio Photography- Perfact for EBAY

This workshop is designed for artists, fine craftspersons, retailers, antique dealers and anyone who wishes to produce quality photographs of small objects. This introduction to tabletop studio photography deals with set construction and lighting, digital camera capture methods, and other techniques resulting in accurate color, proper exposure, and good detail in the photographs.

Quality photographs are required for artists to get their work into the best shows, galleries and retail stores. Successful retail and online sales of merchandise, antiques, and other items depend on quality photography. This two-day workshop uses techniques and equipment that are not too costly and can be used effectively even if the participant has little or no prior photography experience or training. The specific photographic techniques relating to photographing “tabletop” size objects that will be covered include: using manual exposure and focus to get quality results; how to get accurate and consistent color in the images; camera functions and settings; choosing appropriate background materials; light modifiers and how to rig them; lighting methods for reflective surfaces and non-reflective surfaces; and other aspects of photographing in the (temporary) home or small studio setting. There will be discussions, demonstrations and hands-on practice of the methods presented, so it is helpful to bring samples of the types of objects you will be photographing.

The techniques require a digital camera, preferably a DSLR with manual controls, a tripod and two or three simple lights. Participants are encouraged to bring their own camera, tripod (only if they already own one) and one or two samples of their artwork or sample products (only if easily transported). These methods are ideally suited to photographing craft objects (ceramics, wood carvings, sculpture, basketry), small antique items, or other small objects. Please note that we offer a separate workshop for photographing jewelry since those specialized techniques require a specialized workshop.

Tabletop Studio (http://tabletopstudio.com) provides generous support for this workshop.

Instructor: Scott Miles,
Brooks Institute
Professional Photography Program Faculty

November 1 & 2, 2008 9:00 am to 5:00 pm each day
Maximum participants: 16
Facility: 25 E. Mason St. Santa Barbara CA 93101
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