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I'm currently far away from any shops, stuck with my paints and models. My problem is I'm struggling to take good pictures of models to post on the forums, does anyone have any ideas and tips on how to get some good pictures? The camera I will be using is from an Iphone and I could probably get some white sheet. I also have basic lamps and of course natural daylight.

Any ideas for a stressed out servicemen?

Cheers

I had a problem taking pictures until Dakka told me to put a white sheet of paper behind them. About all I can give you, I'm sorry.

Never used an Iphone camera, so I can't help with specifics, either. Generally, though, I'd advise using daylight over lamps - you'll get truer colors and more even lighting. Lamps tend to cause glare unless diffused (the same is true of direct sunlight, but it's easier to find reasonably diffuse natural light).

For the white background sheet, try and set the model near one short edge of the piece and prop the back up, leaving a gentle curve behind the model.

Also, no matter what camera you use, the more stable you can keep it, the better. If it has a timer function, line up your shot, prop the camera in place, and use that to ensure your hand won't shake it. Barring that, simply brace your hands on something to avoid blur and focus issues, as much as possible.

Speaking of focus, I'm sure everything is automatic for the camera and that it lacks a macro mode (actually, I'm less sure on the latter part - use it if you've got it!). If you're having trouble focusing clearly, try simply moving back. You can also occasionally "trick" the lens if it insists on focusing somewhere else (nothing like being able to read the homework way at the back of someone's painting desk while the model they're "showing" is a big beige blob).

If the camera has a delay between focusing and taking the shot, toss a hand or something in line with the mini, giving the camera a bigger target. Auto-focus tends to go for the closest crisp image it can get to its current state, so getting it to focus short might help it back up to the plane of your model, not the other side of the room. If not, try taking a dummy shot of something else at the right focal length to have the next try start in the same ballpark.

Finally, preview your pictures before uploading. I know it seems obvious, but somehow unrecognizable images keep creeping on here, often excused by the poster with the word "Iphone" (although by asking, you've already proven yourself to have the right idea ). Playing with lighting, distance, etc. can do a lot for your pictures, even with a less than ideal camera, just as a lazy and inexperienced photographer can pump out crap, even with high-end equipment.

I've never actually used an iphone to take photos before but what I have found to be really helpful is a piece white sheet and good lighting. If you're painting darker models, the sheet and strong lighting should definitely bring out contrast and this will make it easier for the camera to focus in on the miniature that you are taking a photo of. Also, try to find the ideal distance to focus on the miniature. Try to play around with the distance at which you take the photo at. Last but not least, try your best to keep a steady hand. This should always help when it comes to getting clear pics of miniatures.

I'm not a fan of using white sheets behind most autofocus cameras (white does tend to confuse a lot of even the entry level SLRs - unless they are Nikons).

I use a 18% neutral grey card (just dark enough that contrast levels help with AF) or blue grad for mine.

If you're in a place with good light, take your photos in the shade - direct sunlight can wash the photographs out.