Tabletop Workshop
What to bring
Small objects you want to photograph: jewelry, watches, coins, toys, glassware, food, flowers, tools, vintage cameras, textured fabrics, or anything with interesting detail.
Tripod: essential for sharp images and precise composition, especially at slow shutter speeds or when using focus stacking.
Lens capable of close focus: a macro lens is ideal; otherwise, use a lens with a short minimum focus distance or extension tubes.
Use a remote shutter release or the camera’s self-timer to avoid camera shake.
Extra batteries and memory cards.
Basic setup tips
Backgrounds: bring several background options—plain paper, fabric, wood, slate, or printed textures. Neutral and non-distracting backgrounds help the subject stand out.
Surfaces: use small risers, blocks, or books to vary heights and angles. A sweep (curved background) creates a seamless look.
Lighting: experiment with both natural window light and continuous or flash lighting. Small LED panels, desk lamps, or speedlights with softboxes/diffusers work well. Avoid harsh direct light unless you want strong shadows.
Diffusion and reflectors: soften light with diffusion panels, tracing paper, or white fabric. Use white cards or reflectors to fill shadows and add catchlights.
Control reflections: for shiny or glassy objects, use a polarizing filter, adjust angles, add black cards to shape highlights, or shoot through a light tent.
Composition and camera settings
Get close and fill the frame with your subject to emphasize detail.
Use a narrow aperture (higher f-number) for greater depth of field with macro work, but balance against diffraction and low light. Focus stacking can extend depth of field while keeping apertures moderate.
Keep ISO low for best image quality; increase ISO only when necessary.
Use manual focus or focus peaking for precise focusing, especially at shallow depths of field.
Mind the background separation—use distance between subject and background to create blur and isolate the subject.
Try multiple angles: top-down, 45-degree, eye-level, and low-angle macro shots for visual variety.
Creative approaches
Storytelling: arrange objects to tell a story or suggest a theme—tools with a project, ingredients for a recipe, or nostalgic items.
Texture and detail: emphasize textures with side lighting to bring out surface detail.
Color: use complementary or monochrome palettes; control colored backgrounds and props to avoid clashes.
Motion and life: add water droplets, spilled powders, smoke (incense), or small movement to add interest.
Scale: include a familiar object for scale (a coin, ruler, or finger) when photographing tiny items.
Practical workflow
Start with a simple setup to dial-in exposure and white balance, then add complexity.
Keep a notepad or phone notes of settings and lighting positions for shots you want to repeat.
Clean your subjects and background from dust and fingerprints—use a blower, microfiber cloths, or tweezers for precise cleaning.
Review images on a larger screen if possible for focus and dust checks.
Safety and care
Handle fragile items carefully and at your own risk. Bring protective cases and mats.
Be mindful of power cords, tripods in walkways, and shared space etiquette with fellow members.
Join us to practice these techniques, get feedback, and share ideas with other members. Whether you’re aiming for product shots, still life, or creative macros, this workshop is a great place to learn and experiment.