How to Photograph a Fire Opal

Consult with your client and perhaps a gemologist to determine the best side of the fire fpal that will be used as the front of the stone. Once you know the position the stone must be in, you can set up your lights accurately.

Hang a black backdrop and place the fire opal on modeling stand or table that is covered in a black cloth. If needed use a small foam wedge under the black cloth to angle the fire opal.

Position your main studio light to the left side of the fire opal, turn the power on and set the power to full, this will be your main light. Also turn on the modeling light so you can determine if there are any reflections in the fire opal's surface.

Position a second light on the opposite side of the fire opal and set the power to half of the main light. Turn this light on and turn on the modeling light as well.

Attach a "snoot" to a third light and position it behind and to the right of the fire opal and direct the snoot directly towards the fire opal. A snoot is cone-shaped attachment to directs a small beam of light towards the subject. Turn this light on, set the power to half and turn the modeling light on. Use this light to illuminate the inside of the fire opal.

Attach your camera to a tripod, position the camera 2 to 3 feet in front of the fire opal and attach a lens that will fill the viewfinder with the image. Observe the fire opal in your viewfinder and look for any reflections from the studio lights. Reposition the lights to minimize or eliminate the reflections from the surface. This may not be entirely possible and you may have to remove the reflections in post-production. Take a test shot, make any adjustments to exposure and continue shooting.