Entering an online art contest is an exciting opportunity to showcase your creativity and talent. But did you know that how you photograph your artwork can make a huge difference in how it’s perceived? A blurry, poorly lit, or crooked photo can distract from your masterpiece, no matter how amazing it is.
Don’t worry—capturing a great photo of your artwork is easier than you think! Whether you’re using a smartphone or a camera, these tips will help you take professional-looking photos that do your art justice.
Table of Contents
1. Find Good Lighting
Lighting is the most important factor when photographing your artwork. Natural light works best, so try to take your photos during the day near a window or outdoors. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can create harsh shadows or glare.
- Tip: If you’re indoors, position your artwork so the light is even across the surface. If you’re outdoors, shoot on a slightly overcast day for soft, diffused light.
2. Use a Plain Background
A cluttered or busy background can take attention away from your artwork. Place your piece against a clean, neutral background like a white wall, a large sheet of paper, or a blank canvas.
- Tip: If your artwork is framed behind glass, tilt it slightly to avoid reflections.
3. Keep Your Camera Steady
Blurry photos can ruin the details of your artwork. Use a tripod or rest your camera or phone on a stable surface to keep it steady. If you’re holding your phone, use both hands and take a deep breath before snapping the photo.
- Tip: Use the timer feature on your camera or phone to avoid shaking the device when you press the button.
4. If the artwork is framed
If the artwork is framed, make sure your artwork fills the frame of your photo without cutting off any edges. Align your camera or phone so it’s parallel to your artwork to avoid distortion.
- Tip: Use gridlines on your phone’s camera app to help you line up the edges of your artwork.
5. Adjust Your Camera Settings
If you’re using a smartphone, tap on the screen to focus on your artwork and adjust the exposure if needed. If you’re using a camera, set it to a high resolution and turn off the flash to avoid harsh lighting.
- Tip: Use the “HDR” mode on your phone for better color and detail.
6. Edit Your Photos (But Keep It Simple)
A little editing can go a long way in making your artwork look its best. Use free apps like Snapseed, Adobe Lightroom Mobile, or even your phone’s built-in editing tools to adjust brightness, contrast, and color balance.
- Tip: Avoid over-editing—your photo should look as close to the original artwork as possible.
7. Check the Contest Guidelines
Before submitting your photo, double-check the contest rules. Some contests have specific requirements for file size, format, or resolution. Make sure your photo meets these guidelines to avoid disqualification.
8. Practice Makes Perfect
Don’t be afraid to take multiple photos from different angles or under different lighting conditions. Review them on a larger screen (like a computer or tablet) to see which one looks best.
Final Thoughts
Taking a great photo of your artwork doesn’t require fancy equipment—just a little patience and attention to detail. By following these tips, you’ll be able to submit a photo that truly captures the beauty and creativity of your work.
Good luck, and happy creating!
Ready to enter your artwork? Visit www.picassoartcontest.com to learn more about our contests and submission guidelines. Don’t forget to share your art with us on social media using #PicassoArtContest!
