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Photographing Your Art
By Elizabeth Mackay
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and it's true. One photograph of your art can tell a story. Here are some tips on how to create a story that is interesting, creative and affordable.
Composition and Light
Get close to your art, people are interested in details. Make the image of your art as interesting as the art itself.
Avoid straight lines and cutting the picture frame in half. Instead, divide the picture frame in thirds and use triangular shapes in your set-ups.
Think about the positive space (your art) and the negative space (the background). Make them both interesting. Don't place your art in the middle of the picture frame with lots of empty space around. Fill up that space with your creation. A background should recede and allow the art to pop forward. Blue backgrounds work for many types of art. If your art is light, I would recommend a dark grey background. Mottled backgrounds are more interesting than plain solids.
Living in Humboldt County is like living in the perfect studio light. Our naturally diffused (foggy) light is great for photographing your art. If it is foggy outside, take your work outside and photograph it. Keep away from colorful walls because they will cast color on your work. Instead, work near white or grey walls. If the sun is shining, keep your work in the lightest shade area available.
For example, place your work near a window or an open door. Then, use white foam core as a reflector. Designate an area that you think will work and take notes until you figure out what works for you. Then you can recreate your photos without reinventing the wheel each time you need a photo.
Be creative with your photos. Try using models. People like seeing cute, happy kids wearing your hats. Human interest is an important aspect of your imagery. What is going to make people want to but your art? Play with ideas. Digital photography doesn't cost you. If you don't like an image, delete it.
Digital Camera Tips
Digital cameras are wonderful. They aren't starved for light like film cameras, and they don't cost money to experiment with. I suggest that when you purchase a digital camera, buy one that has 4 mega pixels or more. This will give you the same or better imagery as a 35mm camera.
When using digital imagery, use 300 dpi for printed material and 72 dpi for internet purposes. When taking the photo, zoom in. Don't use a wide angle because it distorts the image on the edges. If you have a tripod, use it. It helps you really see the entire picture frame as you are composing your image. Also, your photo will not have camera shake if it is on a tripod.
Have fun photographing your art.
Elizabeth Mackay, photographer and owner of Catch-Light Photography has lived and photographed in Humboldt County since 1983. 707-822-3755 www.catch-light.com
Still developing? Not quite ready for the investment in a digital camera, fabrics, stands, props and equipment of your own? Become a member of Humboldt Handmade! You may have discovered already that many craft and art events require photos. Three times a year members hold a potluck lunch and collaboration workshop. Besides the marketing and show equipment. We pull out the guilds photography equipment, computer, and software to make a day of working together shooting our work, burning CD's of shots for member portfolios for only $15 for members, $28 for non members. For a extra contribution, the guild will contract with Elizabeth to come teach and help set up shots for 1 to 2 hours after lunch. You will own your shots and cd.
General Membership in the guild is only $25 a year. Master Artisan Crafter membership is $45 and Business--corporate sponsorship is only $100.
CALL 822-7128 TO GET ON THE LIST FOR THE NEXT COLLABORATION
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