Playin'...getting closer??

[Plumcrak]

Round two here we go! Still with the mirror and the BP revolver but a little different setup. It is getting closer to that all elusive picture in my head, but not quite yet. I think I may have to scrap the mirror for something else..maybe a sheet of polished stainless steel??

C&C most appreciated.

1.

2.

The same as above only converted to B&W

1(B&W).

2(B&W).

[Andrew76]

I think you're on the right track Jon. I like them. And, you've managed to save that red channel in the GRIP!! See I can learn!

PS - although I liked the staging you did with the other props, but these ones look much cleaner and nicer.

[Plumcrak]

Thanks Andrew. Once I get the lighting where I want it I may add the props back into the photo. Still not there but I am slowly getting closer

[Andrew76]

Well, do you mind if I ask what it is you're looking for in your lighting?

[Plumcrak]

more even light with less glare. I think I got it tonight. I now have the revolver propped up like it was with the shotgun shell, but without the shell, and that changed everything again. Moved the lighting, slight change in camera angle and I am ready to add the rest of the elements in the shot.

[Mike Buckley]

I like all of these better than the other series and I like #2 the best in both versions. Unlike your other series, the reflection in these photos works very well for me. Consider adding more empty space to the bottom and reducing it at the top.

[Loose Canon]

Hi Jon!

Your #2’s look nice! I especially like the white balance in your #2 color.

Just curious Jon? Are you “gunning” the pistol with hard lighting or are you using any kind of diffusion?

And what would you think if I suggested (oh, parish the thought!) shooting the piece on a non-reflective surface and “faking” the reflection in post? Also, if you can find a piece of solid black tile that will work pretty well.

[Plumcrak]

Consider adding more empty space to the bottom and reducing it at the top.

Thanks Mike, I will try that, thanks for the pointers

[Plumcrak]

Just curious Jon? Are you “gunning” the pistol with hard lighting or are you using any kind of diffusion?

And what would you think if I suggested (oh, parish the thought!) shooting the piece on a non-reflective surface and “faking” the reflection in post? Also, if you can find a piece of solid black tile that will work pretty well.

Terry, the first series were shot under very harsh direct light, these two were diffused light. A non-reflective surface and then adding the reflection would be an option if I had the PP software and the skills to use it...of which I have neither.

I also like the second shot of this batch best

[Loose Canon]

Terry, the first series were shot under very harsh direct light, these two were diffused light.

Just wondering Jon! There is a big difference in the two series'. This series has, in my opinion, the nicer lighting by far.

Just as an observation, if you are looking for more "even" lighting, #2 has it. The barrel is not going as much into shadow toward the business end, and the spectrals overall are not as prominent. Though you probably already noticed this!

A non-reflective surface and then adding the reflection would be an option if I had the PP software and the skills to use it...of which I have neither.

Hokay! I'll quit making dumb suggestions then! Better to get it like you want without too much post anyway!

Looking forward to the next series, Jon! That pistol looks very clean. You keep it in good shape.