Submitting great documentation images of your artwork is essential for a number of reasons:
- the juror uses them to evaluate your work
- your images are used to promote your work online
- your images will be printed in an exhibit book that can be used for promotional purposes
- the exhibition book will be deposited in the Library and Archives of Canada.
Understanding image Files:
- File Size: One possible way to tell a file’s possible quality is its size. The size of a file can be expressed in either kilobytes (KB), megabytes (MB), or gigabytes (GB). For example, an image file might take up 5MB of storage.
- File Format: This refers to the type of file in which your image is saved. ArtCall will accept .JPG, .PNG, and .GIF files. PNG files, if possible, will provide the best quality.
- Resolution: The minimum acceptable pixels per inch is 1920 (px), but most images should be larger than 4800 px. The resolution has two dimensions: height and width. For best quality, pixels per inch should be 4800px or greater on the shortest side. Most modern smartphones should meet this standard, and better-quality cameras are recommended.
Number of Images
- For each entry, you must submit at least one digital image that clearly shows the entire artwork as it would be exhibited.
- Most two-dimensional works should only require one image.
- Up to two additional photos can be used to show details of the work, if necessary, to show textures or alternative views to help the juror understand the tactile nature of the work.
Accuracy of Images
The juror makes their selections based on the digital images you provide, so your images should accurately represent your artwork. Your submission may be disqualified if the work differs from the images or description submitted.
Focus on Your Artwork
The artist or any other individuals should not appear in the images. The images should feature only the work being submitted for adjudication. No other pieces should appear in the frame.
Image Quality and Presentation
To ensure a good quality image:
- Use soft, even lighting to avoid harsh shadows or overexposed areas.
- Choose a neutral, uncluttered, plain background that doesn’t distract from the artwork.
- The artwork should be framed neatly within the image, and the edges of the work should be visible.
- Centre the camera on the work to avoid distorted angles.
- If possible, use a 50mm or greater lens to avoid edge distortion.