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Here are some things to consider when having art work photographed.

Transparencies are better than negatives. They provide a truer colour and saturation match.

Film is better than digital. Digital imaging is improving all the time, but accurate colour reproduction is still a problem, this is because all monitors and printers represent colour differently.

35mm is ideal for a lot of purposes, especially: documentation, initial submissions to colleges and galleries and insurance needs.

6 x 8 cm transparencies are good for full size reproductions up to 60 cm and for crucial submissions. They make a real impression, and can be viewed easily without magnification.

For full size reproductions of oils and pieces over 60 cm in size, 5" x 4" large format transparencies may be required. At twice the size of medium format, they allow the finest detail to be seen.

Duplicate transparencies will be needed. Images of your work will not always be returned by galleries and colleges.

Extra transparencies shot in camera are cost effective and ensure the original quality is maintained.

When work is framed or behind glass, full detail may not be captured, it is therefore better, when possible to photograph before framing.

Before work is photographed on location, certain considerations need to be taken in account, eg. colour of walls, floor and ceiling; does direct sunlight enter the studio? Is there sufficient space for the set up of equipment?

When work is delivered here, it can be picked up later the same day. This maybe useful if you need to arrange transport, and also save you an extra trip

Getting your work photographed doesn't have to be expensive. For example a set of 35mm transparencies of 6 paintings with 6 slides of each - a total of 36 slides, costs less than £3 per slide.

Copyright law gives the photographer of any artwork the right of reproduction of the photographic version of the work. Artists are not permitted to use the image without the photographer's permission.

However...

I give up this right, and ask in return that when images are used for the promotion of your work or reproduced in any form, a credit is given.

A simple line on a postcard, in the introduction of a book, a statement in a gallery brochure, or a mention somewhere on your web site, that attributes the photography to me, such as "Photography by Bob Aitchison" is fine.

Many thanks for this courtesy.