I've been trying to get a good picture of my hive tyrant to post on the site, but all of my pictures end up blurry or out of focus. Does anyone have any tips on how to take pictures of your models?

I have a dark room and behind the model I direct a light at the wall.
Then I take a picture with flash and it becomes quite good as the shadows disapear behind the model. ^_^

Originally posted by kingkrispy@Jan 13 2005, 21:55
I've been trying to get a good picture of my hive tyrant to post on the site, but all of my pictures end up blurry or out of focus. Does anyone have any tips on how to take pictures of your models?
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If your camera has an auto focus setting then try out the different options for that. On mine I have a fine detail focus mode, urn the flash off, and use a desk lamp to back light the camera.

Thank you, I'll try that.

really you want at least two lights or a reflector to cast light back over the shadowy side of the model.

Originally posted by Knape97@Jan 14 2005, 08:22
If your camera has an auto focus setting then try out the different options for that. On mine I have a fine detail focus mode, urn the flash off, and use a desk lamp to back light the camera.
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That 'fine detail focus mode' is often called Macro. It's used to take photos of close-ups and the symbol looks like a flower. Most cameras have it now, read the manual (if you still have it) if you can't find the function yourself.

dont shine light on it too much or have a flash on...use the light around the model rather than a flash...if you can use a quick shutter speed incase shakey hands are the reason for the blur

maybe put near a window on a sunny day with the sun shining in, natural daylight might work better than a table lamp.

Use a tripod.

I think I can help with this one.

I have a little mini-tripod that works wonders for the figures, unless I'm taking a verticle shot, then it doesnt work, but whatever.

For your background use either white or black, make your figure the only object in the frame (unless it's an army shot), as multiple figures up close with anything in the background can really confuse a digital camera's auto-focus.

Um, if your camera can have lenses or filters attached to it, you may think about using a macro lens, but dont buy it just for taking pictures of minis, only if you can justify having it (or if you find it for an awsome price).

I'm a camera dork.

Guide to taking quality miniature pictures here. (http://www.bolterandchainsword.com/index.php?showtopic=51584) :)

Anacron, that is an awsome guide, thank you for linking it.

just get a good digi cam thats all

I've got a good digital camera, but it takes more than just a good camera to take good pictures. :)

I use a SLR (film camera), yes you have to focus it ur self but it can take amazing close up pictures. (1 cm away from the models is my best). when i do use a digtal camera i use the close up function (most digtal cameras have this) and take photos different distances away from the the model.

Unlike some people, I DO use a flash. I find it really brings out the detail in the picture. I use the "close-range" mode on mine, with flash turned ON. It takes great pics, just look at my album to see.

I also recommend putting a backdrop of a solid color bhind the model. Use a light, solid color to really bring out the detail. Sky blue is a good choice.