From Studio to Screen: A Simple Guide to Photographing Your Artwork

---

You've just finished a new painting, and you're ready to share it with the world. But a bad photograph can completely ruin the experience for a potential buyer or gallery owner. Your masterpiece deserves to be seen in its best light—literally. This simple guide will show you how to take a professional-quality photo of your artwork without needing expensive equipment.

1. Lighting Is Everything

Natural light is your best friend. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh glares and shadows. Instead, photograph your painting on an overcast day or next to a large window. Place the painting on the floor or easel, directly across from the light source. This ensures even illumination across the entire surface. If you see any glare, slightly adjust the angle of the painting.

2. Find the Right Background

A clean, neutral background is essential. A simple white or gray wall works perfectly. Make sure there's nothing distracting in the shot—no furniture, no outlets, no pet toys. The focus should be entirely on your artwork. If you don't have a plain wall, you can use a large piece of white poster board or a simple bedsheet as a backdrop.

3. Camera and Settings

You don't need a fancy camera. Most modern smartphones have excellent cameras that are more than capable.

• Turn off the flash. The flash will create a horrible glare and wash out your colors.

• Stand directly in front of the painting. If you're at an angle, the painting will look distorted. Use the grid function on your phone's camera to ensure you're perfectly centered and level.

• Shoot from a distance. Don't stand too close. Take the photo from a few feet back and then use the cropping tool to zoom in. This helps prevent lens distortion that can warp the edges of your painting.

After you've taken the photo, a quick edit can make all the difference. Adjust the white balance to make sure the colors are true to life, and lightly increase the contrast and sharpness to bring out the details.

Following these simple steps will ensure that your digital portfolio truly reflects the quality of your work.