Ask any artist and they will tell you that one of the things they dread the most in their career is photographing their work. I am no exception. Generally I defer to my better half for photographing my work, but for the sake of this post, let me share the essentials:

  1. A good camera is a must. I shoot with a Canon EOS R and it is WORTH the investment, especially if you ever plan on making prints of your work. (and you should always plan that you MAY want prints of your work)

  2. Photograph everything before it goes out the door of the studio. You will regret it if you don’t. (and I speak from experience)

  3. Finish your details and varnish completely before photographing.

  4. If you are going to photograph inside, you will need to ensure that you have good diffused lighting sources. Google setups for lighting and reflectors, because this is not an easy task. I don’t tend to photograph indoors.

  5. The best (in my humble opinion) lighting for your work is a cloudy day. I photograph on an easel or flat, out of direct sunlight. Avoid reflection on your canvas.

  6. Take your photos to include a margin around the painting. You can crop and edit it out later. Which brings me to …..

  7. Photoshop photoshop photoshop. Learn it and use it to correct blemishes etc in your photograph.

  8. Have fun. Take more shots than you think you will need!