Book review:Photographing Arts,Crafts &CollectiblesBook review:Photographing Arts,Crafts &Collectibles

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book author:Steve Meltzer

Paperback:160 pages
Publisher:Lark Books (June 1,2007)
Language:English
ISBN-10:157990906X
ISBN-13:978-1579909062

I have been struggling for years to find a good resource to help me not only understand how my digital camera works but how to use it to take high quality pictures that I know it has the ability to.  This book is a fantastic guide to taking photos of of artwork created in any medium whether it be jewelry,sculpture,wall art,fiber,glass or wood.

The book opens with a nice easy to read and understand overview of digital photography.  Types of lenses and cameras are followed by an explanation of image types,aspect ratio’s,focusing systems,white balance and more.  The chapter on light and the digital studio covers everything from the fundamentals,color temperatures,direction and quality to types of light,light modifiers,measuring light and what color background to use when.

Then the book moves into how to set up and take your photographs with separate chapters for both two and three dimensional artwork.  Artists who make 2 dimensional fiber art will find the section on lighting fabric as well as photographing quilts particularly helpful.  The chapter on 3d objects covers ceramics,glass,sculptures,jewelry,wearable art and objects that light up.  Learn the best way to light and photograph tall objects,short ones and pieces with shiny surfaces.

This book is an invaluable guide for any artist,no matter what medium they work in,who wants to take better photos for juried show submissions,their website,portfolios or brochures.   I highly recommend it!