[LeRoux Strydom]

For really close-up work you will need a lens with macro-focusing ability. Point-and-shoot cameras rarely offer good quality macro photos. Depending on the purpose of the photos (brochure, flyer?) and your budget for the equipment, I would also suggest a dSLR with a good all-purpose zoom lens with macro focus ability. I use a Nikon D80 with a 18-135 lens as well as a Sigma 70-300 macro zoom. The latter focuses down to 95cm at 300m focal length, offering excellent macro photos. A good camera dealer will advise you on the appropriate lens depending on the size/nature of the objects you will photograph. It sound like a good tripod and light tent will be a necessity as well, possibly a good flash with bounce-flash ability too, if the built-in flash of the camera is not sufficient.

It all comes down to the quality of the photos you ultimately want. Why not rent a good photographer for a day?