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5.2 Photographing Work for Submission

6 min readโ€ขoctober 27, 2020

S

Sherry Ross

S

Sherry Ross

How Can I Photograph My Work?

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

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-jEHgB4KFRkP4.gif?alt=media&token=5365a9ce-c865-40b3-9c30-0d9a570bb5a3

Does it Matter if My Work Is , , or Draw?

YES! When you are dealing with work that is primarily (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.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-ib9SGe7bVL6T.jpg?alt=media&token=46c0046f-b46c-4280-a051-35925775adaf

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 . Try your 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 on your work. Move yourself, the work, or the 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 later. Turn the image to best fit the viewfinder (camera) or screen (). You can rotate it later..... but it makes it easier for you to shoot.

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

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

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-SWuI670Y5iXF.jpg?alt=media&token=872020cf-5595-4874-9053-58152ff4c63e

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 . You can do that on your , 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 , follow the above guidelines about lightingโ€”inside or outside. For , things get more complicated. When you are shooting 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.

  • โ€”When you are dealing with (photographing) 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 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 aย formย (meaning it occupies space) rather than aย shapeย (confined to or flat space), your photographs need to document the form of the work. Move around the work, changing , and 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 . You can try shooting outside and let strong sunlight do it for you, but you have to watch for your own shadow. For controllable , you can use the on your camera or , a flashlight, or any small movable lighting source. A small 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 .

  • Multiple viewsโ€”As you photograph, make sure to MOVE AROUND THE WORK, changing perspective and viewpoint. For 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 aย compositeย (multiple photos in one) image.


What About Editing the Photos?

For your artwork, you want the photo to look as NATURAL as possible. Things like , , , and increasing 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 . Make sure it is saved in the correctย ย (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)

2D

: In art and design, 2D refers to two-dimensional works that have length and width but lack depth. These artworks are typically flat representations on a surface.

3D

: 3D refers to a three-dimensional object or image that has height, width, and depth. It creates the illusion of depth and allows viewers to perceive objects as if they were real and tangible.

Color Corrected

: Color corrected refers to the process of adjusting and balancing the colors in an image or video to achieve accurate and natural-looking tones. It involves correcting any color imbalances, enhancing saturation, and ensuring that the overall color appearance is true to life.

Color Correcting

: Color correcting is the process of adjusting colors in an artwork to achieve accurate and realistic representations, often by modifying hue, saturation, brightness, or contrast.

Composite Image

: A composite image is created by combining multiple individual images into one cohesive picture using photo editing software or techniques.

Contrast

: Contrast refers to the difference between lightness and darkness or between colors in an artwork. It creates visual interest, emphasizes focal points, and enhances readability.

Cropping

: Cropping is the process of removing unwanted parts from an image by trimming or cutting it to a desired size or aspect ratio.

Desk Lamp

: A desk lamp is a portable light fixture that is designed to provide focused illumination for tasks such as reading or studying.

Digital Camera

: A digital camera is a device that captures and stores photographs electronically, without the need for film.

Directional Lighting

: Directional lighting refers to the use of light sources that come from a specific direction, creating shadows and highlights on objects. It is an important technique in art that helps create depth, volume, and mood.

Documenting

: Documenting refers to the act of recording or capturing visual information through various mediums such as photography, video, or written descriptions. It is a way of preserving and presenting evidence or proof of something.

File Naming

: File naming is the practice of giving files meaningful names that accurately describe their content. It helps organize and locate files efficiently.

Flash

: A flash refers to a brief burst of intense artificial light used in photography. It helps illuminate subjects in low-light conditions and freezes motion.

JPG

: JPG, or Joint Photographic Experts Group, is a commonly used image file format that uses lossy compression to reduce the file size while maintaining a good level of image quality.

Light Source

: A light source is an object or device that emits light. It provides illumination and allows us to see objects in our environment.

Orientation

: Orientation refers to the direction in which an artwork or photograph is presented, whether it's vertical (portrait) or horizontal (landscape).

Perspectives

: Perspectives in art refer to the way objects are depicted on a two-dimensional surface, taking into account their size, position, and distance from the viewer. It is a technique used to create depth and give the illusion of three-dimensionality.

Phone

: A phone is a portable electronic device used for communication, typically through voice calls and text messages, but also capable of various other functions such as internet browsing, photography, and social media access.

Shadows

: Shadows are dark areas created when an object blocks or obstructs the path of light. They occur when there is a difference between illuminated and non-illuminated areas.

Straightening

: Straightening refers to the process of aligning or correcting the horizontal and vertical lines in an artwork to make them appear more level and balanced.

Viewpoints

: Viewpoints in art refer to the specific vantage points or positions from which an artist chooses to depict their subject matter. It determines what parts of an object or scene are visible and how they are represented.

5.2 Photographing Work for Submission

6 min readโ€ขoctober 27, 2020

S

Sherry Ross

S

Sherry Ross

How Can I Photograph My Work?

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

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-jEHgB4KFRkP4.gif?alt=media&token=5365a9ce-c865-40b3-9c30-0d9a570bb5a3

Does it Matter if My Work Is , , or Draw?

YES! When you are dealing with work that is primarily (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.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-ib9SGe7bVL6T.jpg?alt=media&token=46c0046f-b46c-4280-a051-35925775adaf

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 . Try your 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 on your work. Move yourself, the work, or the 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 later. Turn the image to best fit the viewfinder (camera) or screen (). You can rotate it later..... but it makes it easier for you to shoot.

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

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

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-SWuI670Y5iXF.jpg?alt=media&token=872020cf-5595-4874-9053-58152ff4c63e

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 . You can do that on your , 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 , follow the above guidelines about lightingโ€”inside or outside. For , things get more complicated. When you are shooting 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.

  • โ€”When you are dealing with (photographing) 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 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 aย formย (meaning it occupies space) rather than aย shapeย (confined to or flat space), your photographs need to document the form of the work. Move around the work, changing , and 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 . You can try shooting outside and let strong sunlight do it for you, but you have to watch for your own shadow. For controllable , you can use the on your camera or , a flashlight, or any small movable lighting source. A small 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 .

  • Multiple viewsโ€”As you photograph, make sure to MOVE AROUND THE WORK, changing perspective and viewpoint. For 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 aย compositeย (multiple photos in one) image.


What About Editing the Photos?

For your artwork, you want the photo to look as NATURAL as possible. Things like , , , and increasing 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 . Make sure it is saved in the correctย ย (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)

2D

: In art and design, 2D refers to two-dimensional works that have length and width but lack depth. These artworks are typically flat representations on a surface.

3D

: 3D refers to a three-dimensional object or image that has height, width, and depth. It creates the illusion of depth and allows viewers to perceive objects as if they were real and tangible.

Color Corrected

: Color corrected refers to the process of adjusting and balancing the colors in an image or video to achieve accurate and natural-looking tones. It involves correcting any color imbalances, enhancing saturation, and ensuring that the overall color appearance is true to life.

Color Correcting

: Color correcting is the process of adjusting colors in an artwork to achieve accurate and realistic representations, often by modifying hue, saturation, brightness, or contrast.

Composite Image

: A composite image is created by combining multiple individual images into one cohesive picture using photo editing software or techniques.

Contrast

: Contrast refers to the difference between lightness and darkness or between colors in an artwork. It creates visual interest, emphasizes focal points, and enhances readability.

Cropping

: Cropping is the process of removing unwanted parts from an image by trimming or cutting it to a desired size or aspect ratio.

Desk Lamp

: A desk lamp is a portable light fixture that is designed to provide focused illumination for tasks such as reading or studying.

Digital Camera

: A digital camera is a device that captures and stores photographs electronically, without the need for film.

Directional Lighting

: Directional lighting refers to the use of light sources that come from a specific direction, creating shadows and highlights on objects. It is an important technique in art that helps create depth, volume, and mood.

Documenting

: Documenting refers to the act of recording or capturing visual information through various mediums such as photography, video, or written descriptions. It is a way of preserving and presenting evidence or proof of something.

File Naming

: File naming is the practice of giving files meaningful names that accurately describe their content. It helps organize and locate files efficiently.

Flash

: A flash refers to a brief burst of intense artificial light used in photography. It helps illuminate subjects in low-light conditions and freezes motion.

JPG

: JPG, or Joint Photographic Experts Group, is a commonly used image file format that uses lossy compression to reduce the file size while maintaining a good level of image quality.

Light Source

: A light source is an object or device that emits light. It provides illumination and allows us to see objects in our environment.

Orientation

: Orientation refers to the direction in which an artwork or photograph is presented, whether it's vertical (portrait) or horizontal (landscape).

Perspectives

: Perspectives in art refer to the way objects are depicted on a two-dimensional surface, taking into account their size, position, and distance from the viewer. It is a technique used to create depth and give the illusion of three-dimensionality.

Phone

: A phone is a portable electronic device used for communication, typically through voice calls and text messages, but also capable of various other functions such as internet browsing, photography, and social media access.

Shadows

: Shadows are dark areas created when an object blocks or obstructs the path of light. They occur when there is a difference between illuminated and non-illuminated areas.

Straightening

: Straightening refers to the process of aligning or correcting the horizontal and vertical lines in an artwork to make them appear more level and balanced.

Viewpoints

: Viewpoints in art refer to the specific vantage points or positions from which an artist chooses to depict their subject matter. It determines what parts of an object or scene are visible and how they are represented.


ยฉ 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

APยฎ and SATยฎ are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


ยฉ 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

APยฎ and SATยฎ are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.