How’s that picture of you on your Web site? Of course you have one, right? If you’re still using only a formal staged shot taken in a photo studio, I urge you to replace it or add to it. You’re an artist! You need to be more creative than that. We want to see you at work and in action.

Patricia Scarborough, Cranes on the Platte River, Central Nebraska. Oil on canvas, 36 x 48 inches. Private collection. © The Artist  http://www.pscarborougharts.com

Did you know that the media far prefers action shots to studio shots? Think about it. The only time you usually see a studio shot in a newspaper is when it’s next to a byline, obituary, or when someone has been arrested or is being hunted down and the only photo the press could find was from a high-school yearbook or mug shot. You’ll be increasing the chances of getting yourself in the paper if you have good action shots taken. And, you’ll be able to use those photos on your Web site.

Action shots might include photos of:

• You working in the studio (with your face visible!)

• You painting en plein air

• You teaching a workshop or giving a gallery talk

• You gathering clay for your pots or gathering other material for your work

• You talking with other artists, dealers, or curators--in front of your art

• You installing an exhibit

• You packing a fragile sculpture

• You chatting with customers in your booth

• You playing hostess at your open studio

• You researching an in-depth project

Your photo helps site visitors relate to you when you’re promoting your art online. Rather than giving it little thought, perhaps it’s time to get a good friend with a camera--if not a professional photographer--to snap some new action shots for your Web site and promotional material.

Remember that making art is a mystery to non-artists. Revealing photos from behind the scenes is like letting people in on a secret. And who wouldn’t like that?
 

Know This . . . We like to see how you work behind the scenes. We like to be let in on your secrets. Think About This . . . When you visit an artist’s Web site, what photos have you been drawn to--in addition to the art? Do This . . . Snap some action shots. Snap a lot! (Thank heavens for digital cameras and the ability to delete bad photos!) Select the images that are composed nicely, have good lighting, and show your face. Ask for feedback from other people about their favorites. Post on your Web site or blog and keep the high-res versions for when the media comes calling. There’s more about photos for your Web site on the Art Biz Blog. I also want you to leave a link in a comment if you have good action shots on your site. http://www.artbizblog.com