Photo Guidelines
Photo Guidelines for Appraisal Reports
When submitting photos for an appraisal report, it is important to follow these guidelines to ensure the images provide a clear and accurate representation of the artwork. High-quality photos help us make a precise assessment of the artwork’s condition, details, and value. Follow these steps for photographing artwork:
Overall Image of the Artwork
- Capture a clear, front-facing photo of the entire artwork. If the piece is framed, there is no need to remove the frame unless absolutely necessary.
- Make sure both the artwork and the frame are fully visible in the photo, while cropping out any unnecessary background.
- Ensure the image is sharp and aligned, avoiding skewed or blurry shots.
Close-up of the Artist’s Signature
- Provide a close-up photo of the artist’s signature. The entire signature should be clearly visible and positioned straight within the image frame.
Close-up of Medium Application or Details
- Take a close-up photo of a specific area of the artwork, such as the texture, brushstrokes, or unique details.
- This helps in examining the medium’s application and provides a better understanding of the artwork’s composition.
Back of the Artwork
- Take a clear image of the back of the artwork, including the frame if present.
- This can help reveal important details such as labels, stamps, or any markings related to the artwork’s provenance or condition.
- Ensure the photo is well-lit, sharp, and not obstructed by any unnecessary objects.
Close-up of Any Labels or Markings
- If there are labels, inscriptions, or stamps on the back or frame, provide close-up photos of these elements.
- Make sure the text or markings are legible and centered in the image. This information can be critical in verifying the artwork’s authenticity or origin.
Condition Details
- If the artwork has any areas of wear, damage, or restoration, take close-up photos of these specific details.
- Clearly show the affected area so the appraiser can assess the extent of any condition issues.
- Provide multiple angles if needed to fully capture the condition.
OBJECT
For appraising three-dimensional objects, it is crucial to capture various details to provide a complete visual representation. Follow these guidelines to ensure high-quality photographs:
Overall Image of the Object
- Take a front-facing photo of the entire object.
- Use a light-colored background for most objects, but switch to a dark background if the object is translucent or light-colored to provide better contrast.
- Ensure the image is sharp and well-lit, avoiding shadows that may obscure details.
Photos from Multiple Angles
- Photograph the object from all angles, including the back, sides, top, and bottom, if possible.
- For objects with separate components, such as stands, lids, or removable parts, photograph each piece individually and together with the main object.
- Multiple angles help provide a complete view of the object’s form and any unique features.
Close-up of Markings and Details
- Include close-up photos of any signatures, numbers, tags, labels, inscriptions, or symbols.
- If these details are not easily legible in the photograph, make a note of the markings separately.
- These markings can be crucial in verifying the object’s origin, age, and authenticity.
Close-up of Condition Issues
- When applicable, document any condition issues, such as cracks, scratches, chips, or other damage, with close-up photos.
- Condition issues must be clearly identified to accurately assess the object’s value.
- Multiple photos from different angles may be needed to fully show the extent of the damage.