[Garth Herrick]

Thanks, Heidi:

Looking at clay samples fired at various cones, I asked for cone 4 and got cone 6+++++. The kiln was computer controlled, like just set it and forget it. I think the computer was wrong. The piece came out way more golden yellow than any of the pinkish-beige samples, and as I posted earlier, the square base actually became partly glass at the bottom. Ouch!

I think making a mold and casting is the right approach. At least there's the opportunity to do it again, not to mention perhaps a small edition.

As for lighting the photo, for the background, I used a *2-ply archival matteboard off of a roll, which is really the equivalent of a very heavy sheet of drawing paper, about 40" square. For the light, I have a Lowel Tota-Lite on top an 8 foot light stand, with a 30" white photo umbrella attached in front of the Tota-Lite. This made for extremely soft lighting that complimented the the softly rendered features of the sculpture modelling.

I don't have the new Nikon D70, but rather the Nikon D100, it's pricier predecessor. It has been an all round worthwhile camera. I think the D70 should be a good candidate for a new digital camera. Especially for those who like using a conventional SLR.

Heidi, do what I suggested for Marvin on page 2 of this thread, to compare cameras on display in a store. Good luck!

Garth