Beretta PX4 Storm Post Porcessing ideas

[Noe]

I built my own light box and decided to use my pistol as a model. I was never able to get a sharp focus through out the picture, there was always some soft areas. I would appreciate any tips on how to make the picture better. I would also like to see some of the process work that some of you would do to make the image just pop. You can use the jpeg or download the raw file.
RAW IMAGE

Thanks for your time.

[Phototx]

Noe,

Great start.

I took a few shots at processing your file (pun intended).

I did a lot of product photography in the pre Photoshop film days. I used colored gels to make the backgrounds more interesting. Today it's much easier to do with Photoshop.

Of the 3 images I uploaded I like the black to gray gradient the best with the green in second place. The target behind version is a little stark.

If you could do another photograph with a slightly out of focus target with a few holes in the center that might be your best background option placed slightly to the left of the pistol.

CC.
1. The pistol is sharp, ammo a little out of focus. Try focusing on the ammo or about 1/3 of the way into the subject matter and let the DOF carry forward to the closest bullets and back towards the pistol. Use the smallest aperature you have.
2. There is dust on the pistol that can be removed in post processing but removing before the shot would be better.
3. The ammo box contains both brass and chrome cases.
4. There is a little glare on the slide and magazine. Try a larger softer light source or a non gloss dulling matt spray. You can remove it from the steel right after the shot with a solvent.

Glen

[Noe]

Glen,

Thanks for the feedback. I like your first one the best.

2. There is dust on the pistol that can be removed in post processing but removing before the shot would be better.

I didn't even think about this when I did the setup. I did notice the dust when viewing on the computer. I will definitely pay more attention next time. When you selected the pistol, did you use feathering? If so, what setting?

3. The ammo box contains both brass and chrome cases.

I did notice, but did not have all chrome or brass. I needed the darn case to have the pistol stay up. I will look for another way to make the pistol stay up on its own.

4. There is a little glare on the slide and magazine. Try a larger softer light source or a non gloss dulling matt spray. You can remove it from the steel right after the shot with a solvent.

I did not even know such a spay existed. I will try with a softer light source first.

I really appreciate your feedback, thanks for taking the time.

Noe