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Writer's pictureJim Wildman

10 Tips for Photographing Your Artwork

Updated: Jan 4, 2023


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  • Use natural light whenever possible. When lighting your artwork, natural light is your best bet. It provides a soft, flattering light that can bring out the best in your artwork. Take advantage of this natural light source if you have access to a large window or can shoot outdoors on an overcast day. Avoid harsh shadows by using a diffuser to soften the light. A diffuser is a translucent panel that you place between the light source and your artwork. It helps to spread the light evenly and eliminate harsh shadows.


  • Avoid using flash. Flash can create harsh shadows and wash out the colors in your artwork. Instead, try using contiguous lighting such as LED lights or a lamp. Continuous lighting allows you to see exactly how your artwork will be lit in the final photo and allows you to adjust the lighting as needed. If you don't have access to continuous lighting, use a diffuser with your camera's built-in flash or an external flash to soften the light.


  • Use a tripod. A tripod will help you take sharp, blur-free photos, especially in low-light conditions. When selecting a tripod, consider the weight and size of your camera and lens, as well as the height and stability of the tripod. If you are shooting in a studio or other controlled environment, you may want to choose a heavier tripod with a more stable base. Opt for a lighter, more portable tripod if you shoot on location.


image of camera taking picture of artwork
Photographing artwork


  • Use a camera with manual controls. A camera with manual controls will allow you to adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to get the best exposure for your artwork. When shooting in manual mode, start by setting your aperture to a medium or small value (f/8 or f/11) to ensure that your entire artwork is focused. Then adjust the shutter speed to get a properly exposed image. If you're shooting in a studio or other controlled environment, you may be able to use a slower shutter speed. If you're shooting outdoors or in low light, you may need a faster shutter speed to avoid camera shakes or blurry images. Finally, adjust the ISO to fine-tune the exposure and reduce noise (graininess) in your photo. Remember that higher ISO values can introduce noise into your image, so try to use the lowest ISO value to get a properly exposed idea.


  • Experiment with different angles. Try taking photos from different angles to see which showcases your artwork best. Photography Life recommends shooting at the same height as the artwork and shooting from above and below to get a variety of perspectives. Feel free to get close to your artwork and fill the frame with detail. Close-up shots can be especially effective for highlighting intricate details or textures in your artwork.


  • Edit your photos carefully. Use editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom to adjust your images' contrast, saturation, and sharpness to make them look their best. When editing artwork photography, it's essential to be mindful of the colors and tones in your original artwork. Try to match the colors and tones in your edited photo as closely as possible to the original. Color matching will help your edited images accurately represent your artwork. You may also consider adjusting the white balance to match the lighting conditions in which you shot your artwork. “Improve a portrait using Lightroom.” Adobe Lightroom Training


  • Use a high-resolution camera. A high-resolution camera will capture more detail in your artwork, which is especially important for extensive or highly detailed pieces. When shopping for a camera, look for one with a high megapixel count and a large image sensor. A higher megapixel count will allow you to capture more detail in your photos, and a larger image sensor will allow you to capture more light, resulting in better low-light performance and reduced noise. TechRadar has a helpful comparison of the megapixel counts of various camera models and their impact on image quality.


  • Consider hiring a professional photographer. A professional photographer will have the equipment and expertise to capture the best possible images of your artwork. Hiring a professional can be a worthwhile investment if you're starting as an artist or are not confident in your photography skills. Look for a photographer with experience shooting artwork and who is familiar with your style and medium. Be sure to communicate your goals and vision for the shoot, and ask for examples of your previous work. The American Society of Professional Photography has some valuable tips on finding and working with a professional photographer.


  • Use a white or neutral background. A white or neutral background will help your artwork stand out without competing with busy or distracting backgrounds. When shooting on a white background, use even, diffuse lighting to avoid harsh shadows and ensure that the background is evenly lit. You can also use a seamless white paper background or a white foam board as a makeshift backdrop. If you prefer a more textured or toned background, consider using a neutral-colored fabric or paper instead.


  • Consider the context of your photos. How your artwork is displayed in its environment can significantly impact its aesthetic. Consider the lighting, wall color, and surrounding décor when taking pictures of your artwork. If you're photographing your artwork in a gallery setting, pay attention to the lighting and wall color to ensure that they complement your artwork. If you're photographing your artwork in a domestic environment, consider the furniture, décor, and accessories in the room and how they might impact the overall look of your photos. Experiment with different setups and environments to see which ones best showcase your artwork.





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