Needing advice on taking a picture of a hand (hand model involved)

[Art Vandelay]

Well chop chop. Looking forward to see the practice shots.

[ricktas]

I would agree, get the hand model to visit a manicurist a couple of times before the shoot and again on the day. Hand shots to be done perfectly, need to skill of someone who can make sure the nails, cuticles etc are perfect. Every little flaw will stand out like dogs whatsits, when the hands are the sole focus of the shot

[James T]

A CPL thread popped up the other day - one thing mentioned was the use of one to cut down unwanted reflections. You may want to try a few shots with one on close-ups with the taps in frame?

Polarising filtres cut down reflections from non-metallic surfaces. So you could use it to make the water look flat, probably not something you want. But it most likely would have little effect on the taps.

[SnowA]

That's interesting JamesT - I didn't think metallic or non-metallic surfaces made a difference to the way a polariser worked, but I'm no scientist.

I was under the impression that some togs used a CPL to get rid of reflections on shooting car bodies, but I could be mistaken.

[ricktas]

That's interesting JamesT - I didn't think metallic or non-metallic surfaces made a difference to the way a polariser worked, but I'm no scientist.

I was under the impression that some togs used a CPL to get rid of reflections on shooting car bodies, but I could be mistaken.

Umm, yes, it gets rid of reflections, metallic taps and water produce reflections

[SnowA]

Yes, that's a good point about the water.

It was JamesT's comment about a CPL only working on reflections from a non-metallic surface (ie. not the taps) that puzzled me.

[Keith]

On the different angles you can use, have a quick look at google images and see the type of variety there are. You may not want all shots looking down into the sink, could try looking across the sink into a blue background, so grab a large peice of cardboard and practice with that too.

[andylo]

Thanks guys Really appreciate for all the brain storming

(Now I have no excuse for 1) taking a crap shot 2) not posting it here )

[James T]

A polarising filter works with polarised light (funnily enough). Light reflected from a metallic surface is not polarised. Glass, water, skin, vegetation, etc. you're good to go though.

[ricstew]

Can I also point out........have a look at what you are using behind the hand/s.....what is the background? Dont use the bathroom with the grubby walls or daggy posters about handwashing! Try to have a nice clean empty space so the hands are the focus.
cheers
Jan

[andylo]

As promised - this is the end result

http://www.ausphotography.net.au/for...023#post689023