Taking photos that actually help with an identification request

A few small habits make a real difference when posting a specimen for identification help. Use natural daylight or a bright, neutral white light rather than yellow indoor bulbs, which can shift the apparent color significantly. Include something for scale in at least one photo, a coin or ruler works well, since size is genuinely important identifying information that is easy to misjudge from a photo alone. Take multiple angles, including any broken or cut surface if one exists, since internal texture and color often tell you more than the exterior. If the specimen has any luster or reflective quality, try a photo with the light source at different angles, since a single glare heavy shot can hide detail that would otherwise be obvious.