Taking Photographs of Artwork

Taking high quality photographs of your artwork is important, especially if you are planning on selling online. Here are some simple guidelines to help you create the best possible photographs.
 

Natural outside light is paramount when taking photographs of your artwork. If the sun is very bright then find a spot with some shade but make sure there aren't any shadows from tree branches or other obstructions covering your artwork.

Position your artwork completely straight against a wall. Use a tripod to take perfectly steady shots. If you don’t have one you can always use a box or a bench to support your camera.

To minimize distortion of the original artwork image tilt the camera slightly down to match the angle of the artwork when taking the photograph.

To avoid your artwork looking like it swelled up take a few steps away from your artwork and use the “zoom”on your camera to take the photograph.

Make sure that the camera is parallel and level with your artwork. If your camera is not centered with your artwork your photograph will look distorted.

Since it is not always easy to see the results on the viewfinder of your camera take several photographs of the same artwork and then select your best image once they are on the computer. Then use any photo-editing software to give your photograph its final touch. Make sure to crop your artwork so that only the artwork is visible (no frames, borders or background walls). Your artwork photograph should also be a minimum of 600 pixels.