If you search this forum, or almost any other photo forum, you'll find that light tents are seldom a good solution for taking pictures of shiny objects.
They are popular because they are cheap and easy, not because they are good for the task.
Before buying any gear, buy the book "Light - Science & Magic" learn how light works, and how to control reflection and shadow. Then you won't be asking about tents.
cwebster wrote:
...Before buying any gear, buy the book "Light - Science & Magic"
I agree 100% -- this is the single best piece of advice I can offer.
Also Bryan Peterson's Understanding Close-up Photography might be helpful.
Although there is nothing terribly wrong with the MyStudio kit, for less than the $300+ that they want, you can build your own that will be just as good if not better. Instead of a "cyc," for what you are talking about a simple sweep is probably all that is needed, and allows for easier side- and back-lighting.
With regard to lighting the product, I agree with Chas and Brian. Understanding how to light the bottles will dictate what setup is necessary. You might be able to get away with a folding table from K-Mart (I actually have 4 of them I use more often than not), a roll of seamless paper and some foam core (assuming you already have lights.)
It sounds like you're new to (product) photography. In terms of cameras/lenses, I prefer a crop camera for product work (more apparent DOF - I use a Canon 60D rather than my 5DII). A macro lens isn't bad but isn't necessary either. You may be fine (initially at least) with the kit zoom lens that comes with the camera (if you have a choice, go for the longer zoom like 18-135 rather than the 18-55.) A zoom will also give you more flexibility in terms different size items and where you can place the camera. A (good) tripod and cable release are good ideas if you want a consistent look from item to item.
If they are then I second the "Light - Science & Magic" book, especially the sections on bright field and dark field lighting.
If they aren't clear, then use something for a background. Plexiglass is nice as it reflects. You can get little white and black pieces in the scrap bin at Tap plastics for cheap. That would work very nice for small bottles.
Pay attention to controlling the reflections on the bottle this is often done using strips of black and white foam core that isn't in the image, but is part of the reflection in the product. This is called Black and White magic respectively.
