I cannot take credit for this information as I read it on CT but I can't find the thread where I read it:
on most digital cameras there is a setting for close up shots. It usualy is indicated by a little flower icon. Putting the camera in that setting will give you clear focus at close range.
The other thing which helps is using a tripod. Theymake mini tripods which are only a few inches (5-7) tall when the legs are colapsed. Mounting the camera onto the tripod and using the close up mode has worked well for me. If I am trying to get the face of the chip I prop it up against a stack of chips for a better angle.
Hope that helps - post your work once you've tried it
J
