Description

How to Photograph your Artwork with your Phone

In response to popular demand, VAA’s Artist-Led Masterclass has been expanded into a dynamic two-part online series, with each session lasting one hour. This new format gives you more time to dive deeper into the topic, connect directly with masterclass leader Carlo Savo across two sessions, and build valuable relationships with fellow artists. Whether you’re looking to refine your photography skills or gain personalised feedback, this extended format is designed to offer greater insight, support, and creative growth.

In Part One, you’ll learn the fundamentals of smartphone photography, with a focus on capturing high-quality images of 2D artwork. Part Two will take a closer look at photographing 3D pieces, offering practical techniques tailored to more complex forms. The second session also includes an extended Q&A, giving you the opportunity to troubleshoot common mistakes and receive direct feedback from Carlo.

Session Lead: Carlo Savo was born and raised In Northeast Pennsylvania a few miles outside of Scranton PA. He began drawing at a young age copying comic book covers and popular cartoon characters of the era. As a teenager, he taught himself painting and traditional figure drawing. Though he received some guidance from various individuals who encouraged him in his artistic pursuits, Carlo has never had a formal art education. At the age of 18, he became an apprentice auctioneer and entered the world of antiques and fine art. During his sixteen years as an auctioneer, he gained firsthand knowledge of the art world and collecting. In 2016 he left his career in antiques to pursue new opportunities and further explore his artistic vision.

Dates and Place: 6th and 13th May, 2025 | 18:00-19:00 GMT (UK Time) | Online

Learning Outcomes:

How the Smartphone works, the basics of camera settings
Understand lighting and filter techniques for photographing artwork
Discover composition tips for showcasing your art effectively
Learn how to utilise smartphone features to enhance your art photos
Gain insights into editing tools for perfecting your art images
Using zoom, contrast, and flash
Understand best practices for storytelling
Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Ensuring your art is the focal point of the photo
Avoiding glare and reflections on glossy surfaces
Properly framing and cropping your art in the photo
Using editing tools subtly to enhance, not alter, your artwork
Learn how to unlock the full potential of your smartphone and gain confidence in capturing compelling images of your work. This two-part Masterclass will equip you with practical photography and editing techniques to elevate your composition and make your artwork stand out. Perfect for creatives who are new to smartphone photography or looking to enhance their existing skills.

This session is not part of the VAA One-Off Masterclass series, but rather a VAA Artist-Led Session. As such, complimentary tickets are not included in the Premium Membership subscription. However, VAA Members are eligible for an exclusive 50% discount — tickets are available at £29.99 for members (non-member price: £59.99). If you have any questions about this session, please contact the Events Team at events@visual-artists.org

Member Ticket Information

In order to access Member Only tickets, VAA Members must be logged into their member accounts. To log in to your account, visit this Login Page. Your member login will be the email address you used to sign up to your membership, and the password that you set. If you are having trouble logging in, get in touch at memberships@visual-artists.org