Lens + setup for paintings?

outdoors · Jul 19, 2011

What is the best way to take pictures of paintings, mainly watercolors but also a couple of oil paintings? Note - these are not framed.

If anyone has experience would like to hear your suggestions for lens, lighting, and any other equipment used.

CCericola · Jul 19, 2011

I've only shot artwork for slides. We laid theartwork flat on the table. We had 4 continuous tungsten lights, one on each corner and shot down using a copy stand using a 1:1 lens. Larger paintings were shot in full sun against a neutral wall. Art 8x10 and smaller may be able to be scanned on a quality flatbed but I have no first hand experience with that.

outdoors · Oct 11, 2011

A friend wants to shoot a few pictures of his brother's paintings for high rez large prints. He has a D5100 and the 35mm 1.8.
I think that will be a fine combo, anyone disagree?

analog.universe · Oct 11, 2011

I wouldn't use a 35mm 1.8.

Ideally you want a lens with minimal distortion and high resolution, which translates to a macro lens. The 35 is optimized for other factors, and as a result will not render as straight or as clear as something like a 105mm micro.

Also, depending on how large you mean by large, you may be limited by the resolution of that body. Check out this article: How Big Can I Print by Thom Hogan

outdoors · Oct 11, 2011

Large in this case would be 24"x24". IMO the Nikkor 35mm 1.8 lense does a great job with focus and distortion, but I get your point and will pass it on.

joealcantar · Oct 11, 2011

I shot some pieces for a local museum and used a 60mm macro as it has a 1:1 ratio. I would put it on the wall and not hit it with flash unless it is well diffused or you will get a hot spot on it. Find the right time of day in a nicely lit area and use a tripod. Shoot the frame and crop to size if framed.
The shot below is a mosaic that I shot for them so they could sell the images in the gift shop.
-

-

-
Shoot well, Joe