Very useful information !

Some ideas from my own jewelry photography experiences:
* get a real macro lens not a lens that *also* will do macro work; the optics are designed for close work
* a 105mm macro lens is much easier to work with than a 55mm macro; same image from farther away
* wear white clothes and white gloves otherwise your skin or clothing will show up as a reflection
* 12×12 inch backgrounds can be found in the tile department of stores like Home Depot or Lowes
* gloss black tiles will make a mirror-like background but the largest I have found in stock are 8×8 inch
* 3×5 index cards (recipe cards) make great, cheap reflectors
* some art supply stores carry inexpensive black velvet forms for folks who make custom jewelry
* get a small roll of thin flat-black wire at the hardware store; great for holding jewelry, easy to edit out
* nylon fishing line is shiny and reflects light; use the black wire instead
* a ZeroStat will neurtalize static electricity making dust removal much easier; I find them on eBay
* watch bands can be held open with a specially made clear plastic C-shaped form (difficult to find)
* a tripod is a PAIN to use; a heavy (and expensive) camera stand is worth its weight in gold
* do a Google search for Union Brothers camera stands; I believe they are a Las Vegas-based firm
* Ikea sells adjustable saw horses for about $33; great for tilting the whole set if needed
* Home Depot and Lowes sell 24×24 boards made of various woods; paint or stain for a background
* I painted all the walls of my studio (home living room) flat white so I can light the walls, it is like working inside a HUGE soft box

Terry Thomas…
the photographer
Atlanta, Georgia USA
http://www.TerryThomasPhotos.com
(go to my Products page then scroll to the bottom to see my studio in action)

Sorry to be a stick in the mud, but you misspelled the word jewelery on the top photo. It should be spelled jewelry. Love your site. Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge with us.

Cary Nettles

I found your site on del.icio.us this morning and really liked it. I bookmarked your blog and will definitely be back soon to read your new posts!

I loved the article! These types of resources are extremely valuable to anyone interested in making jewelry. I can’t wait to read some more of your articles!

very interesting and beautiful photos….. like it. have you twitter or some Social networking to follow…? I didn’t find it.