As an artist, showcasing your work in the best possible light is crucial, especially when you’re ready to share it with the world. Whether you’re looking to sell your artwork online, enter competitions, or build a professional portfolio, capturing high-quality photographs of your art is an essential skill. A great photograph can make all the difference in how your artwork is perceived.
At The Online College of Art & Design, we understand that perfecting your art is only half the battle. Presenting it well is just as important. In this blog, we’ll share some expert tips for photographing your artwork like a pro. With the right techniques, you’ll be able to showcase your work in a way that truly reflects your talent. Plus, we’ll highlight how our courses can help you develop these essential skills and more!
- Choose the Right Lighting
Lighting is the most important factor when photographing artwork. Poor lighting can distort colours, create harsh shadows, and fail to capture the texture of your work. To ensure your artwork looks its best, follow these lighting tips:
- Natural light is your friend: If possible, photograph your artwork during the day when you have access to natural light. Place your artwork near a window where you can take advantage of soft, diffused light.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause glare and uneven lighting, making it difficult to capture the true colours and details of your piece. Aim for indirect sunlight or use sheer curtains to soften the light.
- Artificial lighting: If you’re photographing at night or in a room without natural light, use softbox lights or LED panels to achieve even lighting. Position your lights on either side of your artwork to avoid shadows.
- Use a Tripod for Stability
A tripod is an essential tool for capturing sharp, clear photographs. It ensures that your camera remains steady, preventing any blurring or distortion caused by hand movement. Even if you’re using a smartphone, a tripod can make a noticeable difference in the quality of your shots.
If you don’t have a tripod, try placing your camera or phone on a stable surface, such as a table, and use the timer function to avoid any shake when taking the photo.
- Capture Your Artwork at Eye Level
Make sure your camera is positioned directly in front of your artwork, at eye level, to avoid distortion. Photographing at an angle can make your piece look stretched or warped. If you’re photographing a piece that’s hung on a wall, use a ladder or step stool to get the right height.
Take a few test shots to make sure your artwork is centred and aligned in the frame. Pay attention to the edges to ensure no part of the artwork is cropped out.
- Use a High-Resolution Camera
While professional cameras are ideal, you don’t necessarily need an expensive setup to capture great photos of your artwork. Many modern smartphones come equipped with high-resolution cameras that can produce excellent results.
If you’re using a smartphone, make sure the camera settings are set to the highest resolution possible. A high-quality image is especially important if you’re planning to showcase your work online or in a portfolio, as it’ll allow potential buyers or employers to see the fine details clearly.
- Keep the Background Simple and Clean
The focus of the photograph should be your artwork, so avoid cluttered or distracting backgrounds. A plain, neutral background (such as a white or grey wall) will allow your artwork to stand out and be the focal point of the image.
If you’re photographing a piece of artwork that’s framed, make sure the background doesn’t detract from the piece. Remove any items that might compete for attention or create reflections in the frame.
- Take Multiple Shots and Experiment with Angles
Sometimes, it takes a few tries to get the perfect shot. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives. Take a few shots from slightly different heights and distances to see what works best for your artwork.
If your piece has intricate details, take close-up shots to capture the texture, brushwork, or other unique aspects. These details can help potential buyers or viewers better appreciate the craftsmanship of your work.
- Edit Your Photos for Colour Accuracy
Once you’ve taken your photographs, it’s important to ensure the colours in the images are as accurate as possible. Even with great lighting, slight variations in colour can occur. Use photo editing software, like Adobe Photoshop or free alternatives like GIMP, to adjust the colour balance and brightness.
When editing, avoid over-saturating the colours or applying filters that might alter the look of your artwork. Keep the edits subtle to ensure your piece is represented as faithfully as possible.
- Save Your Photos in the Right Format
After editing, save your photos in a high-quality format such as JPEG or TIFF for online display. Make sure to also save an original, unedited copy of your photos for future use, especially if you plan to print or submit them for exhibitions.
If you’re uploading your artwork to an online marketplace, check the platform’s image requirements. Many sites, like Etsy or Saatchi Art, may have specific guidelines for image size and resolution.
- Consider the Context of Your Artwork
Sometimes, photographing your artwork within a context can help potential buyers visualise it in their own space. For example, if you’re selling a painting, you might want to take a shot of the artwork hanging on a wall in a living room or office setting. This gives viewers a better sense of the piece’s size and how it would look in their own home.
For sculptures, photographing your work from different angles can give buyers a 360-degree view of the piece. This is especially important for three-dimensional works, as it helps convey the full texture and shape of the sculpture.
- Showcase Your Work with a Portfolio
Having a portfolio is a great way to present your work in a professional manner. Whether you’re applying to universities or preparing to exhibit your work, a well-curated portfolio with high-quality images can make all the difference.
Why OCAD is Your Perfect Starting Point
At The Online College of Art & Design, we understand that mastering both the technical and practical sides of art is essential. Our online courses cover a wide range of disciplines, from painting and illustration to photography and digital design, allowing you to hone your craft and learn how to present your artwork professionally.
Our courses are flexible, allowing you to learn at your own pace and from the comfort of your home. With expert guidance and the opportunity to receive feedback on your work, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident artist, ready to share your work with the world.
Conclusion: Capturing Your Artistic Journey
Photographing your artwork like a pro is an essential skill for any artist. By following these tips, you can ensure your pieces are showcased in the best possible light and attract the attention they deserve. Remember, at OCAD, we’re here to support you every step of the way, from perfecting your artistic technique to helping you market your work online.
Ready to take your artwork to the next level? Enrol in one of our courses today and learn how to present your creations like a true professional!