I have tried a large array of parameters for taking pictures of glossy models.
If using flash then diffusing or further away is better... except that diffusing often sees a larger reflection spot area, even though said spot is weaker. On complicated parts, thats a problem
Ive tried using quasi light box, large sheets of white fabric with lighting behind it. this just washes everythign out with reflections of the white.
Ive tried outside but its so bright, even with various ways of shading for or background that its a real trick to get some of these to turn out.
One of the main problems is say when photographing a car, there isnt a lot of complicated shape. So you see the occasional hard reflection and all is good. But with little models I have both flats, and many complicated edges giving reflections everywhere and even a lot of said secondaries can be a pain.
Generally what seems to work best is photographing from afar, with a dark base and background a white or gray scattering material a few feet away and all around (general illumination without hard reflections) and then I have to play with the balance of the ambient lighting vs the direct lighting. Too much ambient increases the "reflection noise" on the model. Too much direct increases the direct hard reflections.
Eh Im an amateur=) With a case of "props" and equipment for photographing.
