I will point out this isn't anything new, but due to the optical shortcomings introduced by putting a thick sheet of metal sputtered glass between the lens and the subject - I rarely use this technique.
Originally posted by swanlefitte If you had to shoot multiple items it would save a lot of time.
With stock photography this is often the case where a photographer has to get things done very quickly - time is money, clients pay peanuts for this kind of work. I can't exactly blame them for cutting a few corners.
Originally posted by swanlefitte Cue the comments about losing stops and added abberations and reduced sharpness from putting more glass between the subject and sensor.
Two stops is easily compensated for in the studio, I've covered for bigger light losses than that!. As for the increased optical aberrations - those won't be visible at low resolution compressed images.
Originally posted by swanlefitte It works great with smooth surfaces but is terrible with texture
This is a valid concern with fine art metalware and historical objects where the patina of age and a life lived is important.