Photographing wine bottles

[discography]

I am a beginner and need to take photos of wine bottles. As they are destined for a the internet I will use my compact digital camera (Sony DSC-P1) with inbuilt flash rather than film.

With virtually no budget except for what I can make myself, I am interested in generating good quality photos, particularly regarding the lighting. Therefor I am asking for any tips and tricks so that I can create good lighting (on a low budget).

The wine bottles (red and white) will have a white background (for cropping). If I use the inbuilt flash I can either reflect it so that it is not direct or alternatively soften it. Perhaps there are suggestions for shooting locations (ie. inside with natural outside light at 1 point) or using other 'handy' light sources (eg hologen as opposed to electric).

Thank you kindly.

[Todd Patten]

disco -- PopPhoto had a very good article about this very sort of thing. I think it was in last months addition. It covers purchasing small, portable softboxes. They even had a review. I do not know how much you expect to spend, but it may be your answer.

You could also set up a strong halogen type light and somehow diffuse it with wax paper. It may help you forgo using the flash. Once the image comes out I would use PS to soften the image as well. It sets a mood. You know, kind of like how everything looks after a bottle or so

[discography]

Hi Todd,

Thank you for the response, I will follow up on the article.

Best.