How to Photograph your Work
- All artwork should be shot before it is framed.
- Shoot the image in the largest jpeg possible. If using a camera phone or a digital camera, the resulting jpg should be easy to email, large enough for publications and suitable for web downsizing or optimization.
- It is recommended that you turn off your flash when shooting works on canvas as the flash tends to highlight the threads of the canvas more than the image. [Check your camera manual to see how to turn off the flash. Most of the new cameras have some kind of option button with images representing On (flash is always going to go off), Off (no flash) and Auto (depending on the lighting the camera decides if it needs to throw light on your image.)]
- Fill the frame of the camera as best you can with the image. If you have an odd size or oversize piece, step back a little further to get the entire work int he frame.
- Check the image in the camera after you take it. Look for reflections, dark spots, hair blown across it, etc. If it looks off or blurry, reshoot it. Be sure to take a deep breath and hold still when you shoot the photo. In some cases you may need to step back a bit further.
Framing Your Artwork
Gallery Framing Requirements
- Be framed [except 3-D pieces] or gallery mount
- Have edges finished [no bare canvas around sides, for instance]
- Be hung by framing wire, but
a. No saw tooth hangers at the top
b. Wire properly attached [approx. 1/3 from top; not real tight, but taut enough so that wire does not show above the top of the piece];
- Wire secured to the frame with appropriate and adequately secured fasteners
- If over 24” in any direction, must have Plexiglas rather than glass
- Frame in good repair; no corners that do not meet evenly, no holes or cracks unless barn wood or other aged grain
- Glass/Plexiglas is clean
- Make sure art work and mat are secured in frame and won’t fall out when hung