Photographing jewellery

It is a known fact that photographing jewellery, glass and sometimes ceramics can be notoriously difficult. Probably lots to do with the reflective aspects, getting really close and good lighting.

I have never attempted it myself, not being a jeweller or photographer, but I came across some exceptional examples that others have produced which I think stand out from the rest.

Hope you like them as much as I do!

Vivid and contrasting colours

From : MeghanT
A stunning piece with rich colours. The dark red background makes the picture pop and adds even more luxury and contrast to the rich tones of the gemstone and silverware. Notice how the earrings are taken at an angle which adds additional depth as well as the use of dramatic shadows.

From : Limegreenmodern
I am a big fan of lime green anyway, but combined with the texture, this background really makes the silver look vibrant and exciting. I also like the fact that the necklace is displayed fluid and at an angle.

From : SheBearDesigns
Very effective use of fresh lilac purple background with a slight texture. I love the use of lighting here, there’s clearly a light source to the left which gives a completely different mood to the piece, from the first example. This is a necklace and because it is a detailed shot it encourages the visitor to click on it to see more.

From : FlauntRox
You can’t get brighter than this orange background. It shouldn’t work against the gold tones of the metal, but somehow it does. Just goes to show that you should not be afraid to experiment with colour.

With props

From : ovgilliesdesigns
I really like the creative use of this picture. The texture of the ceramic which the earrings are hung from work really well, adding a little interest, but not detracting from the jewellery itself.

From : PennyDog
A really unusual bangle displayed with cotton thread reels. I love the fact that the reels are vintage and the use of the colours here work really well. The coloured reels somehow don’t detract focus from the bangle itself which does not have any colour, but lots of interesting detail. The angle of the lighting gives some nice shadows and depth to the image. An excellent example of how to use props to its best effect.

From : COGnitivecreations
I love the fact that this compass bee is sitting on a heavy metal cog wheel. When you look at the shop name you appreciate the relevance. Another great example of using an obscure object to display jewellery effectively.

From : JLeeOhioDesigns
I really like the cool green tones of this picture with the lushness of the pearls. The earrings are hung on what looks like the handle of a jug. I think the shape, pattern and reflective qualities of the jug in the background are exceptional.

Textured and patterned

From : Shauna Jane
This very unique cuff is presented on what looks like embossed wallpaper. The paper is neutral and works really well with the nature of the piece, by adding texture and interest without being distracting. I also like the fact that the shot is taken on a perspective.

From : Jezebel Charms
A very unusual necklace, taken on what looks like parchment type handwritten script. Gives it an aged and antique feeling and I really like the fact that the writing is at an angle to the piece.

From : Andrewyn Designs
These turquoise earrings are beautifully offset by the contrasting darkness of the carved wood. The closeness of this piece and that you can see the light reflecting off the facets on the gems makes this one a real winner.

Black and whites

From : JensJewellery
Sometimes the only option is white. You really can’t go wrong when putting metals against a white backdrop. I love that there are subtle shadows which give it depth and lifts it from the background. The plain colour really makes the copper jump out at you. I just adore the simplicity here.

From : JLeeOhioDesigns
Another example from this designer, but this time using a dark background. The matt dark background with slight texture works really well with the beautiful coloured tones of the pearls. Gives it real feeling of luxury and opulence. While it is still a dark background, there is still a lot of light in use here to add depth.

In context

From : AndrewynDesigns
A great example of a product shot being modelled. I find jewellery displayed on busts rather bland. This is a great photo. I like the high contrast colours and the feeling of movement. Gives you a great indication of how dramatic this piece would look when worn.

I think you will agree that there are exceptionally talented and creative people out there and it was a real pleasure compiling this list. I also found a ring which I want to buy, but that’s for another post!