Full-Frame Best lens & lighting for macro product photography (highly reflective objects)

[AlCherry]

Hello! I’m looking to upgrade my setup for work. I’m currently using a Sony A7 II with the 28-70mm kit lens, but I need to move into high-quality product photography for some very specific items (see attached - not my pictures).

These objects are highly reflective/metallic, and I’m struggling to capture them without getting unwanted reflections from the room.

I’d love your advice on:

1. Lens suggestions: I’m considering a dedicated macro lens. Which focal length would you recommend for this body to get the best sharpness and compression?
2. Lighting & reflection control: since these are "shiny" objects, what modifiers should I look into? I've heard of light boxes and light cones (like the Karl Taylor ones). Does anyone have experience using these for small metallic parts?
3. Accessories: any specific tripod heads or "extras" that make positioning these types of products easier?

Thanks in advance for the help!

 

[Chris 3754]

I would suggest going with the a7iv which will give you 33mp. The a7v has many more bells and whistles, but I feel they are for target tracking and autofocus of moving objects. Since this is not your need, the a7iv’s are becoming a better bargain. That is unless you want to use the camera for other things. Then for sure the a7v is a superior camera. You could also go the a7r route, more megapixels, but I have always preferred the regular iv and v over the r’s.

Sony’s new 100mm Macro is a killer lens, it’s everything you could ask for. However if you want to go manual focus, take a look at the Kiron 105mm Macro. You can find the on ebay as either Lester Dine dental lenses which are just Kiron’s rebranded. There is a cult following of this lens, worth a Google search, and much cheaper than the Sony 100mm.

Lastly, I would suggest any mainstream quality ball head, and add a micro focusing rail.

As for the reflections, maybe someone can add here, I never have any good luck with this.

 

[THXGEEK]

Look into the Puluz Light Box, I bought one a little while ago and it really helps control stray light. I posted about it here. It's not perfect, but it does help.

+1 for the new Sony 100mm macro - awesome lens!

You may also want to consider some reflective panels - these can add some interesting effects.

Have fun!