Step 2: Light the Artwork
Introduction
The lighting you use when shooting your artwork must evenly illuminate it for the best quality images. Sculpture, jewelry, and other dimensional pieces also require that the lighting reveal the form and texture of the work.
The basic techniques for photographing flat or dimensional artwork are simple and straightforward, with just a few lighting elements. I’ll talk about those in a few minutes, after I first show you how not to light your art.
One of the big mistakes many artists make when photographing their artwork is to use the on-camera flash to light the artwork. But no flashing…and here’s why.
Instructions
Click on the video (above) to watch the lesson. The Lesson Guide (below) contains a transcript of the video. It has space to make notes and a worksheet if you download and print a copy. The short worksheet at the end of the Lesson Guide will help you with turning off the flash on your camera. Complete the worksheet with the camera and manual in front of you.
Lesson Guide 
Discussion
If you have a question about using the on-camera flash, please leave it in the discussion area below (be sure to include the camera model). One of your fellow students who has the same camera or I will try to assist you. I encourage you to post any other questions or comments about the lesson, too.
