Comparing Two Shots Of The Same Pen - Classic Pens Cp8

[PenHero]

Hi, Folks!

 

I did the original official shots of the Classic Pens CP8 pens and was really pleased with this new updated shot. So I thought I would post the two versions and make some comments on what is different.

This is the original shot that I took for the website and for dealers to use:

http://classicpensinc.com/CP/CP8NEW_800_05.jpg

It shows the rhodium plated trim version of the CP8 Vannerie.

This is the new shot of the gold plated trim pen:

http://www.penhero.com/Temp/CP8GTVannerie_1280_01.jpg

Both pens were shot using the same Canon 5D camera, Canon 100mm f 2.8 macro lens, light tent and daylight lamps, only the angle and background differs. Both shots were set at f 22 aperture and slow shutter speed. One was shot on black, and the other silver. I made three shots of both pens, bracketing a couple of stops above and below center on the exposure compensation. The black background is the stepped down version and the pattern jumps out and the reflection shows stronger. The silver background is the stepped up version. I like the new one better.

What do you think?

These are Classic Pens CP8 Murelli in the Vannerie (French Basketweave) guilloche on sterling silver with gold and rhodium plated trim, released in 2008. The 500 pen edition has two patterns, the other a Flamme (Flames) guilloche, 175 fountain pens and 75 rollerball pens in each pattern. The 5 25/32 inch long pens were manufactured in Italy by Aquila Brands and engraved in Domont, France by the Murelli company. They are fitted with 18 karat solid gold, two-tone Bock nibs with the Classic logo.

Thanks!

[cunim]

Thanks for getting into the technical, Jim. To tell the truth I am more interested in how you do your great shots than in the subjects.

 

That said, I really like the rhodium pen. Aaargh,.. must not reach for wallet.

 

Since you ask for comments, here we go. The first exposure brings out a "pen by moonlight" feeling. Really a pleasure. However, the section and nib lack impact and the section merges with the background a bit. Second shot is just about a perfect composite exposure over the entire pen. Guess that's why you like it. Technically, it is the better shot but the high key image doesn't make me want the pen as much as that first shot does.

 

Keep 'em coming. Very educational.

[PenHero]

Thanks for the comment - you nailed it. Andy Lambrou very much wanted shots like the first one and they sold the pen. I tend to like shots like the second one where detail comes out as much as possible. My photos of the LB6 pens are more like the second shot and I think in that pen's case, it's the best because of the material. I'll post some more comparison shots here in the future. Thanks!

[zaddick]

I like the first shot better, by a wide margin. First, I am a sucker for stub nibs. Second, the reflection in the surface is much more detailed and appealing to me and draws me into the photo. Third, the placement of the pen and cap in parallel positions is more attractive to me. Finally, the first picture looks more challenging for me to reproduce using the zero equipment I have so it seems more special to me because it feels aspirational.

 

All of these are non-technical, emotional reasons, but they add to a clear, unwavering preference. As usual, I appreciate your posts and your photos. Thank you for your time in creating and posting.

Edited December 12, 2017 by zaddick

[PenHero]

Thanks for the input!!

[ac12]

Black background for a light pen, to make the pen contrast with the background, rather than blend in.