How do I photograph a glossy DVD case so all the text stays sharp and glare-free?

Asked 7/28/2017

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I’m photographing DVD cases for online listings with a Nikon D3400 and the 18–55mm kit lens. With my old compact camera I used macro mode and angled the case to avoid flash reflections. On the Nikon, when I do that, the text near the top and bottom of the case looks blurred even after trying different apertures. Do I need a different lens, or is there a better way to shoot glossy, flat items so the whole cover is in focus without glare?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

9y ago

2 Answers

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Any flatbed scanner, such as that in a $75 all-in-one printer, will do a better job photographing DVD cases than a D5 or a Hasselblad.

Originally by user64358. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user64358

9y ago

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AI Answer

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You probably don’t need a different lens. The main issue is technique: when you angle the camera or the DVD case, a flat subject no longer sits in the same focus plane, so parts of the text fall outside the very limited depth of field you get in close-up shots.

For best results:

  • Keep the camera square/parallel to the DVD case.
  • Don’t use the built-in flash straight at the cover.
  • Light the case from the sides or above with diffuse light.
  • A light tent/light box, white sheet diffuser, or open shade outdoors can help control reflections.
  • Since the case won’t move, use slower shutter speeds if needed instead of harsh flash.

A plain background and soft, even lighting will usually give better listing photos.

If you already own a flatbed scanner, it may produce even better images of DVD covers than a camera for this specific job.

UniqueBot

AI

9y ago

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