To capture a top-down shot, mount the GemCam Pro directly on top of the GemLightbox above the jewelry, position the piece in the center of the turntable or shooting surface, adjust the camera until the entire piece is in focus, and use the GemLightbox's built-in lighting to capture the image.

Top-down photography provides a clean, symmetrical view of your jewelry and is commonly used for e-commerce listings, catalogs, and marketplaces.

Step 1: Position the Jewelry#

Place the jewelry flat or standing on the turntable.

  • Centre the jewelry within the frame.

  • Arrange chains, bracelets, or earrings neatly.

  • Remove any twists or overlapping components before capturing.

Step 2: Position the GemCam Pro#

Mount the GemCam Pro so it points directly down towards the jewelry.

For the best results:

  • Keep the camera as perpendicular to the jewelry as possible.

  • Ensure the entire piece is visible within the frame.

  • Avoid tilting the camera unless creating a creative angled shot.

Step 3: Adjust the Focus#

Using the live preview in the GemIQ app:

  • Adjust the camera as necessary.

  • Fine-tune the focus until the entire jewelry piece appears sharp.

  • If you're photographing longer or taller items, ensure the most important details remain in focus.

Step 4: Use the GemLightbox Lighting#

The GemLightbox provides diffused lighting designed for jewelry photography.

For most top-down images:

  • Use the default lighting.

  • If using the GemLightbox Max, adjust the Sparkle Lights only if additional brilliance is desired.

  • If unwanted reflections appear, reposition the jewelry slightly before changing the lighting.

Step 5: Capture the Image#

Once the jewelry is:

  • Centered

  • Properly focused

  • Evenly lit

Capture the image using the GemIQ app.

Review the image and make small adjustments to the jewelry position or camera angle if needed before capturing again.

Professional Tips#

For the cleanest overhead shots:

  • Clean the jewelry before photographing.

  • Keep the camera perfectly centred over the jewelry.

  • Leave a small amount of space around the jewelry to avoid cropping.

  • Arrange necklaces and bracelets symmetrically.

  • Use the highest resolution available for detailed product images.

Best Jewelry Types for Top-Down Photography#

Top-down photography works particularly well for:

  • Larger Rings

  • Larger Earrings

  • Pendants

  • Tennis bracelets

  • Bangles

  • Necklaces

  • Loose gemstones

  • Coin and medallion jewelry

Common Questions#

Should the GemCam Pro point straight down?#

Yes. Keeping the camera directly above the jewelry produces the most accurate and symmetrical top-down image.

Why isn't my entire jewelry piece in focus?#

Check that the jewelry is lying flat and adjust the GemCam Pro's focus using the live preview. For taller pieces, focus on the most important details or reposition the item.

Why do I see reflections in my top-down image?#

Highly reflective metals may produce reflections. Try slightly rotating or repositioning the jewelry before adjusting the lighting.

Can I use top-down photography for necklaces and bracelets?#

Yes. Arrange the jewelry neatly and symmetrically before capturing for the most professional result.