So, you have your lampshades or light box and are getting some good shots. But you notice on shiny objects (ie, clips, nibs, etc) that you are getting a dark reflection. This is probably from the lens, espically if you are taking the picture from directly above the pen.

Here are 2 pictures of the same pen. The first one is taken from directly above the pen.

Notice the large black spot on the clip.

The same pen taken on a 10 to 15 degree angle.

- Mark