Playin' with guns

[Plumcrak]

I am playiung with lighting, not getting the end result I wanted. Any C&C is welcome.

[Shadowman]

It looks like you are angling your light differently in each photograph causing you to get different shadow patterns. You may want to try two lights one from an angle and one from the back. Are you using a light tent? Have you considered changing the background color to contrast with the gun? Your center of focus (especially in the third photo) appears to be near the center of the image. Was that your intent or were you trying to focus on the barrel and use DOF in the remainder of the photo? Nice subject, well lit, and composed. I like the placement of the rounds in the second and third photograph.

[Goldcoastgolfer]

What result is it that you feel you're not getting, out of curiosity?

[rpcrowe]

I am guessing that I might like a higher angle for the second image. That way the edge of the cork (?) would not split the revolver and the flare on the barrel might be reduced. I never thought of using a shotgun shell to prop up a revolver, unique idea!

[Plumcrak]

Mal, I keep thinking that I need less light for a darker picture, but I am not happy with the shadows. So, more light sources, from different angles? I am guessing. I am just a dumb plumber playing with a camera. No photo shop or any other post production tool. Trying to get the pictures straight from the camera. Ideas?????

Thanks,
Jon

[Goldcoastgolfer]

Mal, I keep thinking that I need less light for a darker picture, but I am not happy with the shadows. So, more light sources, from different angles? I am guessing. I am just a dumb plumber playing with a camera. No photo shop or any other post production tool. Trying to get the pictures straight from the camera. Ideas?????

Thanks,
Jon

Your image source looks quite bright - not sure whether it's a flash or some other light but have you got a diffuser or reflector you can use to soften the light? That will reduce the intensity of the light and the shadows, while adding to the darker picture you're going for I suspect.

Incidentally, no such thing as dumb around here - just an opportunity to learn more

[PRSearls]

With the dark blueing, you need more diffused light. Try photographing outside under an overcast sky or in open shade. This will reveal more detail in the shadows and give a nice highlight to the polished metal and grips. Nice revolver; I haven't shot black powder (my .50 cal. Hawken replica) for many years. It is a real cannon. I am presently shooting a less deadly Canon.