3/21/09 Photographing Artwork
Today I delivered eight new canvases of my handmade paper artwork to my Fennville photographer, Rob Soltysiak. This work is being photographed for my website as well as a new on-line site that is in the works. This represents my entire fall and winter output.
Artist friends who know that I have photographed people and landscapes for almost 40 years often ask me if I take photographs of artwork? I always tell them no - this is a highly specialized practice requiring special equipment and lighting. (And quite a large financial investment as well.)
When you are searching for a “photography partner” of your artwork be sure to look for a photographer who has;
1) The proper equipment for the task at hand. (It takes special lenses, lighting and a set up with a variety of backdrops to photograph artwork.)
2) An understanding of the specific lighting needed to show off your work to its fullest capacity (This type of photography needs at least 2 bounce lights and a backdrop.)
3) An understanding of what editors and publications, and photo judges and juries, expect in backdrop colors, lighting and final image quality. (You artwork will also be judged (and accepted or denied) on the quality of the photography as well as your artwork.)
4) A willingness to prepare your final images in the formet you need for the specific way you will be using them. Will your images be used on a website or will they be used in publication and for art juries?
Plan to spend around $400.00 to $600.00 for every 10 or so pieces photographed.
