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๐ŸŽจap art & design review

5.2 Photographing Work for Submission

Verified for the 2025 AP Art & Design examโ€ขCitation:

How Can I Photograph My Work?

You don't need a fancy camera to photograph your work well. You can use any digital camera or phone that can take a clear photo. It's really easy once you get the hang of it. Plus, taking them with your phone makes it that much easier for you to drop them onto your social media accounts and wait for the ooooohs and ahhhhhs!

Does it Matter if My Work Is 2D, 3D, or Draw?

YES! When you are dealing with work that is primarily 2D (flat) you need to photograph it straight on. That sounds kinda strange to say, but most people put their work down and photo it. That leads to a distorted photo. This is what that looks like.

That is NOT what you want! There are two easy ways to get the correct straight on photo that you want.

  • You can tape or pin up the piece on the wall in front of you and aim. Make sure you hide the tape on the back or, if you put it in the corners, CROP IT OUT! Do not stand between your work and the light source. Try your flash if you find this hard to do.
  • You can place the piece on the floor and lean over it, centering the work in the middle of the viewfinder or screen and take the photo. Be careful - depending on where your light sources are, you can easily cast shadows on your work. Move yourself, the work, or the light source so that you can get a good photo.

Take multiple pictures, trying to center it, or even fill your image area with the work. If you can photograph it that way, it means less cropping later. Turn the image to best fit the viewfinder (camera) or screen (phone). You can rotate it later..... but it makes it easier for you to shoot.

Pro Tip: Always view the photos before you move on! Make sure there are no shadows, fingers, or miscellaneous feet shown in them. Checking photos as you take them means you don't have to redo your set up later.

If you are new to photographing artwork, try taking some with and without the flash. You don't want to flash out your color, but you also don't want shadows. Some people like to take their photos outside on an overcast day to reduce shadows.

You want your photo to turn out like this (but with finished artwork, not just something random you can reach for an example ๐Ÿ˜‰).

This is a practice piece and, if it was really going to be submitted, the yellow shift on the white paper might need to be color corrected. You can do that on your phone, in whatever app you have, or just retake the shot in a more neutral light. Which brings us to......

Do I need fancy lights and stuff?

No. Lots of people shoot outside. That can get hot, so if you prefer, do it indoors. For 2D, follow the above guidelines about lightingโ€”inside or outside. For 3D, things get more complicated. When you are shooting 3D work you need to consider the following:

    • Backgroundโ€”You want a neutral background that "fades" out of the viewer's awareness. It should be ALL ABOUT THE ART, not what it's sitting on or in front of. If the piece is small, try using a large piece of paper, taping it behind the work, and bending it forward so that the artwork has a seamless background. If the work is larger, try using a solid color sheet, again making sure it extends under the piece and in front of it. White works well for almost anything. If the piece is white, consider using another solid color.
    • Shadowsโ€”When you are dealing with documenting (photographing) 3D work, you need to think about how it interacts with the space AROUND it. Are there interior empty spaces? Are there extensions you need to consider? The shadows created not only inform the viewer about the work, but they also contribute to the work by depicting the space it inhabits. Try moving your lighting source around the piece while photographing. Sometimes, it's easier to have someone else hold the light while you photograph.
    • Formโ€”Since this is a form (meaning it occupies 3D space) rather than a shape (confined to 2D or flat space), your photographs need to document the form of the work. Move around the work, changing perspectives, and viewpoints to capture all angles. You might want to move the lighting as you do this.
    • Lightingโ€”For your lighting, you have several options. While regular room lighting might show the work, it won't give you strong shadows. You can try shooting outside and let strong sunlight do it for you, but you have to watch for your own shadow. For controllable directional lighting, you can use the flash on your camera or phone, a flashlight, or any small movable lighting source. A small desk lamp is usually really good for this, especially if you can remove the shade. As you light the work, move the light into different positions - high, low, left, right - and look to see what creates the most interesting lighting on your work and the best shadows.

Pro Tip: 3D work is ALL ABOUT SHOWING FORM AND SHADOW!

    • Multiple viewsโ€”As you photograph, make sure to MOVE AROUND THE WORK, changing perspective and viewpoint. For 3D work, you will need at least two photos of each work showing significantly different views to help the readers understand how the work interacts in the space. It's perfectly acceptable to move the work to keep the background neutral, especially if you are working in a tight space. ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿฝ If you have several great shots of one piece, you can always use a composite (multiple photos in one) image.

What About Editing the Photos?

For documenting your artwork, you want the photo to look as NATURAL as possible. Things like cropping, straightening, color correcting, and increasing contrast are all ok. You don't want your photos to look overly "done". Things like filters, color changes, over saturating, and overly HRD'ing it all will distract from the work and shift the focus to the effect, not the work.

When you are preparing your photos for submission, save your work as a JPG. Make sure it is saved in the correct orientation (vertical or horizontal). Save your images as close to 5 MBs as possible. The website says 3 MBs and gives a specific size.... it will take up to 5 MBs. You don't want your images too small to be viewed! ๐Ÿ”

Name your files so that you will know they are the ones edited and prepared for AP. This will make it easier to find the correct ones. You can use the name of the piece or something as simple as SI1, SI2, etc. The image name isn't shown so don't worry if it "doesn't match" the location you put it in. ๐Ÿ˜‰

Can I Use a Filter on it?

Simple answer? NO. Keep your photos as close to raw as possible. See the above post.

What size does it need to be?

All submissions must be under 5 MBs to be able to be uploaded. Keep the size as close to that as possible.

How should I name it?

Name it something that will designate to you what it is. Use the name of the piece or something like SI1, SI2, etc. This will make it easy to find and it will let you know you have already edited and sized it for upload. ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿฝ

Key Terms to Review (21)

3D: 3D, or three-dimensional, refers to objects that have depth, height, and width, making them appear more realistic and lifelike. In the context of art and design, 3D work is significant because it engages viewers in a way that flat, two-dimensional work cannot. This dimensionality allows for a more immersive experience and can convey complex narratives and forms that challenge traditional perceptions of space and representation.
2D: 2D, or two-dimensional, refers to art that has height and width but lacks depth, meaning it is flat and can be represented on a flat surface like paper or a screen. This concept is crucial for understanding how images are created and perceived, especially in mediums such as drawing, painting, printmaking, and digital art. The limitations of 2D spaces can influence compositional choices, perspective, and the overall representation of subjects.
Color Corrected: Color corrected refers to the process of adjusting and refining the colors in a photograph to ensure that they accurately represent the original artwork. This technique is essential in creating a visually appealing and faithful representation of the artwork, which is crucial when submitting images for evaluation or display. Proper color correction can enhance the details and vibrancy of the artwork, making it more effective in conveying the artist's intentions.
Color Correcting: Color correcting is the process of adjusting the colors in an image to ensure they appear accurately and consistently, especially when photographing artwork for submission. This technique helps to restore the true colors of the piece, which can be distorted by lighting conditions or camera settings, ultimately enhancing the quality of the visual representation.
Composite Image: A composite image is an artwork created by combining multiple images or elements into a single cohesive piece. This technique allows artists to explore complex narratives, blend different visual styles, and create striking visual effects that convey deeper meanings. By merging various components, artists can challenge perceptions and present innovative interpretations of their subject matter.
Contrast: Contrast refers to the difference between elements in a work of art, which can create visual interest and emphasize certain features. By juxtaposing opposing elements such as light and dark, rough and smooth, or large and small, artists can guide viewers' attention and evoke emotional responses. This principle is crucial in various stages of artistic creation, from capturing images for submission to evaluating works against established criteria.
Cropping: Cropping is the process of removing unwanted outer areas from an image to improve framing, highlight specific details, or alter the aspect ratio. This technique can significantly enhance the composition of a photograph by directing the viewer's attention to key elements, adjusting balance, and creating a more visually engaging presentation. Proper cropping is essential when photographing work for submission, as it helps ensure that the artwork is showcased effectively.
Desk Lamp: A desk lamp is a portable lighting device designed to provide illumination for tasks on a desk or workspace. It typically features an adjustable arm and shade, allowing the user to direct light where it is needed most, which is essential for capturing the details and colors of artwork effectively when photographing for submission.
Digital Camera: A digital camera is an electronic device that captures and stores photographs in a digital format, using electronic sensors rather than film. This technology allows for instant viewing and editing of images, making it an essential tool for photographers and artists who need to document their work effectively.
Directional Lighting: Directional lighting refers to the technique of illuminating a subject in a way that highlights its shape, texture, and details through light that comes from a specific direction. This method creates shadows and highlights that enhance the three-dimensionality of an artwork or object, making it crucial for effectively showcasing pieces when photographed for submission. Understanding how to manipulate directional lighting allows for improved visual impact and clarity in the presentation of artistic work.
Documenting: Documenting refers to the process of recording and preserving visual evidence of artistic work, particularly through photography, to provide a clear representation of the artwork for submission or presentation. This practice ensures that the details, colors, textures, and overall impact of the art are accurately captured, allowing for effective evaluation and appreciation. In the context of visual arts, documenting is crucial as it acts as a bridge between the artist's intent and the viewer's understanding.
File Naming: File naming refers to the systematic process of assigning names to digital files in a way that is both organized and meaningful. This practice is crucial when photographing work for submission, as clear and consistent naming helps in easily identifying, retrieving, and managing files, particularly when dealing with multiple pieces of artwork.
Flash: Flash is a burst of artificial light used in photography to illuminate a scene, especially in low-light conditions. This technique enhances the visibility of subjects, captures details that may otherwise be lost, and can create dramatic effects through controlled lighting. The use of flash can greatly influence the final appearance of an image, providing opportunities for creativity and precision in capturing artworks.
JPG: JPG, also known as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), is a widely used image file format that compresses digital images, making them smaller and easier to store and share. This compression can reduce file size without significantly impacting the image quality, making JPG a popular choice for photographing artwork for submission due to its balance of quality and efficiency.
Light Source: A light source is any object or device that emits light, which can significantly affect how artwork is perceived and photographed. Understanding the characteristics of light sources, such as their direction, intensity, and color temperature, is crucial for capturing the true essence of an artwork when documenting it through photography. The way light interacts with the materials and textures in a piece can enhance or diminish its visual appeal, making effective lighting essential for accurate representation.
Orientation: Orientation refers to the positioning and alignment of an artwork in relation to its vertical or horizontal axis. This term is crucial when photographing work for submission, as it directly influences how the artwork is perceived and understood by viewers. Proper orientation ensures that the intended message of the piece is conveyed effectively and can enhance the overall presentation of the work.
Perspectives: Perspectives refer to the viewpoint or angle from which an artwork is created and perceived. It influences how the subject matter is represented and interpreted, playing a crucial role in the visual narrative and overall composition of the work. Understanding perspectives allows artists to convey depth, dimension, and context, making their pieces more engaging and meaningful.
Phone: In the context of photographing work for submission, a phone refers to a mobile device that has the capability to capture high-quality images. Modern smartphones are equipped with advanced cameras and editing features, allowing users to document their artwork effectively. Using a phone for this purpose offers convenience and accessibility, making it a popular choice among artists for showcasing their creations.
Shadows: Shadows are areas where light is obstructed, creating a darker tone compared to surrounding illuminated areas. In photography, shadows can significantly influence the perception of depth, form, and texture in an artwork. Understanding how to manipulate shadows when photographing work for submission is crucial, as they can enhance the visual impact and overall composition of the image.
Straightening: Straightening refers to the process of adjusting and aligning an image to ensure that the artwork is presented accurately and professionally in photographs. This involves correcting any tilts or distortions that might occur during the capturing of the image, allowing viewers to appreciate the work without distractions from improper alignment. Straightening is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the artwork and contributes to a polished presentation when submitting photographs for review.
Viewpoints: Viewpoints refer to the perspectives or angles from which a subject is captured or perceived in visual art, including photography. Understanding and selecting different viewpoints is crucial in creating dynamic and engaging images that can influence the viewer's interpretation of the artwork. Various viewpoints can enhance the narrative, convey emotions, and highlight specific aspects of the subject, making them an essential consideration when photographing work for submission.
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