I don't consider myself a pro at all a taking pictures, however I do edit photos as part of my profession and I have to say that sometimes half the work is after the pics are taken (Photoshop <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> ).

Also a light box is very helpful and a flash usually isn't. Lighting needs to be bright but subdued using a sheet of paper or something. Sometimes I just tape a piece of paper across in front of a light. Be careful not to let the paper get too hot though... <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

I'm sure some of the other guys will probably do a better job than me at explaining some of the details. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />