Photos for the preparation of an expert evaluation
I have to be able to see the following shapes and details in the best possible quality in order to create an appraisal:
Please make sure to take the photos in daylight without the use of flash (except for guitar interior). Care should be taken, when photographing the full views as well as the full soundboard and back, to ensure that the lens is pointed at the instrument from the correct distance and is set parallel to the instruments´surface in order to avoid distortions. When taking shots of the exterior, please do not use a wide-angle lens in order to reduce distortions. Detailed shots of individual components, e.g. heel and bridge, should be taken from different angles.
The internal construction of guitars is particularly revealing and important for a more accurate classification of an instrument. The interior clearly and undisguisedly shows the respective local style, but especially also the individual style and handwriting of the executing master. When it comes to the linking of unsigned or falsely signed guitars to a particular maker, a look inside is indispensable.
For interior shots, loosen the strings and hold the smartphone through the sound hole into the guitar. Then rotate the phone 360 degrees, taking several shots in different directions using the flash. Shots up (upper block) and down in line with the guitar´s center (lower block, bracing) are particularly essential, in addition to the shape of the bars and their connection to the linings.
What should be avoided when taking pictures:
- Bad lighting (too dark or too many reflections)
- Blur (incorrect focusing)
- Distortions due to unfavorable angles and wide-angle settings
- Photos of the body interior taken without the flash
- Low resolution photos
