Photographing your work

Great photos are essential for attracting clients on MadeMay. Here are tips for presenting your work effectively.

Lighting

Natural light is your best friend. Photograph your work near a large window or outdoors on an overcast day. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which creates strong shadows and washes out colors. If you shoot indoors, use soft, diffused lighting.

Background

Use a clean, uncluttered background that does not distract from your work. A plain white or neutral backdrop works well for most pieces. For large-scale sculpture or installation paintings, a styled room or gallery setting can help buyers envision the piece in their own space.

Multiple angles

Show your work from several angles. Include close-up shots that highlight details, textures, and craftsmanship. For functional pieces, show them in use. For artwork, include a shot that shows scale, such as the piece next to a familiar object or in a room.

Consistency

Keep a consistent style across your portfolio images. Similar lighting, backgrounds, and composition create a cohesive, professional look that builds trust with potential clients.

Editing

Light editing is fine -- adjust brightness, contrast, and white balance to accurately represent your work. Avoid heavy filters or edits that misrepresent colors or details. Buyers want to see the real piece.