Digital photography of artwork
Some originals cannot go through a scanner. Photographing them gives you a detailed digital file you can reprint, archive or share.
When to photograph, and when to scan.
Scanning is excellent for thin, flexible originals such as film and prints. Other originals need a camera. Anything rigid, thick, textured or fragile is usually better photographed, because nothing has to touch or bend it.
| Your original | Usually best |
|---|---|
| Oil or acrylic painting on canvas or board | Photography |
| Work with heavy texture or collage | Photography |
| Delicate or framed original | Photography |
| Transparency, slide or negative | Drum scan |
| Thin photographic print | Either; ask us |
How we do it
We photograph originals using Hasselblad equipment, available for work at A4 and A3 sizes. Prices are per original.
| Size | Price |
|---|---|
| A4 | £20 |
| A3 | £40 |
Guide prices from our price list. They exclude VAT and delivery and assume print-ready artwork.
What you can do with the file
- Print a giclée reproduction on art paper or canvas
- Make editions to sell at a show or online
- Keep a record of a piece before it is sold
- Produce catalogue, portfolio or website images
Getting your piece ready
Make sure paint and varnish are fully dry. If a work is framed behind glass, take it out if you safely can, because glass reflects the lights. Tell us if the work is fragile, has a heavily reflective surface, or is larger than A3, so we can talk about the best way to handle it.
Colour matters
Paintings can contain colours that are hard to match exactly. If accuracy is important, bring the original or a reference and ask about a proof before any full print run. Screens and paper show colour differently, so judge it on a proof, not a monitor.
Copyright
Only reproduce work you own the rights to, or have permission to copy. If you are unsure, check with the artist or the rights holder first.
From original to finished print.
Your questions.
Can you photograph work bigger than A3?
Our listed prices cover A4 and A3. Tell us the size of your piece and we will let you know what is possible.
Do I get the digital file?
Tell us how you want to use the file when you book, and we will confirm what is supplied in your quote.
How long do you need the original for?
It depends on the job and our schedule. Ask us when you book, particularly if the work is due at a show.