My company needs to upgrade our mini-studio for photographing jewelry (not gemstones) and small handicrafts. None of us are professional photographers, but we more or less know what we're doing. We're looking to buy (used, if possible) the following equipment:

1) digital SLR camera (don't really need more than 5 megapixels) that allows changing lenses

2) macro lens for the camera (prefer 70-100 mm so the camera doesn't have to be very close to the products)

3) two 500 watt photofloods with softboxes and stands (will use to illuminate our light tent)

Any recommendations where we should go shopping? Or if someone has any of this equipment for sale, please PM me.

Also, does anyone have experience or recommendations for using a circular polarizing filter with the macro lens in order to reduce glare on silver and other reflective (like lacquer) surfaces?

Thanks in advance for your ideas and suggestions.

A few things I might try;

Set the white balance.

Set and lock ISO to 100.

Spot focus or manual.

A brite lite, set next to the camera to sparkle the piece.

A tripod and lock up the mirror on the camera.

Set to f22 or higher. For depth of field, you may photograph several parts of the item, getting the lighting and focus perfect, then photoshop together.

Place the items on a white or black acrylic plate for a nice reflection.

A dab of hot wax can be good for setting up the items.

A long lens so you won't see yourself reflected in the piece.

Consider using film too.

One more thing.

I've seen a Nikon, PC Micro, 85mm f2.8 - f45 with a lens-tilt feature that is ideal for tabletop photography.

Good luck with your photos. What you're doing is "Illustrative Photogragphy" and you can find information on techiniques by looking up that topic on the web.

While using a SLR camera and the polarizing filter, simply look through the lens and rotate the ring on the polarizing filter until you reduce the glare to the desired effect. No need to be a 'rocket scientist' here, just watch for the reduction in glare and stop, shoot and 'develop'. Ooops, no such thing as developing with a digital camera -- lost in the past.

Im pretty sure a poloriser wont do anything with metal

Nope polarizing filters don't help with glare/reflections on metal. You'll need to control those by controlling the light.