Like most objects in art museums, smartphone snapshots are more of an aesthetic tradition than a science. But, with that in mind, here are a few techniques that you should keep in mind when trying to achieve the perfect #artselfie:
1. “This isn’t time for modesty,” says Kim Drew founder of Black Contemporary Art, the Tumblr devoted to highlighting artists from the African Diaspora. “If you’re going to stop in a gallery to get your shot, go all out. No one likes a timid selfie. That said, be mindful of guards who are there to protect the art. Museum guards are the best!”
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2. “Most museums prohibit use of selfie sticks—for good reason—try to find works that are reflective like Teresita Fernandez’s Fata Morgana in Madison Square Park or work by Anish Kapoor, Michelangelo Pistoletto, or a installation by Hank Willis Thomas,” says Drew.
via @museummammy
3. Susi Kenna, the founder of Nail Art History, says, “The secret to a great art selfie is framing an interesting composition, finding your best angle, and knowing how to hold your phone so you look hot and get the perfect shot.”
4. “Position your phone higher than your head in order to capture as much of the atmosphere behind you as possible,” says Hyatt Mannix, the New Museum’s Press and Social Media Manager. But, she warns, “You should not take a step backwards before checking behind you,” because standing still helps protect the art and the quality of the static image you are trying to capture.
via @myatthannix
via @myatthannix
5. “When photographing a work of art, try to avoid cropping a work and over-filtering so as to not misrepresent the work of art you’re shooting,” says Mannix, “because the artist intent should shine through any app. Another pro tip is, ‘always credit the artist and, if word count allows, include the title and year of the work.’”
6. Research goes a long way to gather inspiration for the perfect museum shot. “Whenever taking pictures in a popular museum or gallery show start by searching their geotag and hashtags on Instagram to see how others have captured what’s on view,” explains Kenna. “The best shots will show the work from a fresh perspective and give viewers a unique way of experiencing the art and its environment.”
via @susikenna
Keep it locked to the #artselfie hashtag to stay abreast of the cutting edge, and from The Creators Project, happy snapping.
Related:
8 Techniques to Make You a Better Smartphone Photographer
How to Take Pictures Like the Official White House Photographer
