Quilting is a labor of love, from pattern and fabric selection to cutting, stitching, quilting and binding. At Nebraska Quilt Company, our quilt community knows that when you've completed your a work of art, capturing its beauty in a photograph becomes a way to preserve and share your hard work. Though we may have been taught it’s impolite to talk too much about ourselves, we also know that we have supportive quilt friends who love to see our work. (They’re all hanging out in the Nebraska Quilt Company Facebook Group!) Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just beginning your journey, here are some tips for taking captivating photos of your quilts using just your phone camera.
Tools of the Trade: Your Phone Camera
Today, our smartphones include cameras capable of capturing intricate details in all kinds of settings and lighting situations. There’s no need to even think about professional photo equipment– online memory keeping and social sharing are best when they’re authentic. And these days, what’s more authentic than pulling out your phone to snap a few photos?
Setting the Stage: Locations and Lighting
Natural light is your best friend when it comes to photographing quilts. Choose a location with ample natural light, like near a large window or outside on a slightly overcast day. Generally, you’ll want to avoid direct sunlight as it can create harsh shadows.
Consider backgrounds that complement your quilt without overpowering it. Solid-colored walls or simple backdrops like a clean wooden fence or a neatly arranged garden can make your quilt pop. If you’re living in a snowy location when you’re ready to photograph your quilt, consider finding a spot outside. The soft white snowy background can be the perfect contrast to your bright, geometric quilt.
Take a look at these very different photos of the Triangle Fade Quilt and Rippling Colors (kits available at NQC).
Displaying Your Quilt
Showcasing your quilt in its full glory is essential for a captivating photo. If the quilt is small to medium-sized, consider hanging it on a wall, using clips or pins for support. For larger quilts, enlist the help of a husband or friend to hold it up, allowing it to drape naturally.
Experiment with angles and perspectives. Capture close-ups to highlight intricate stitching or overall shots to display the quilt's entirety. Play around with different orientations, whether draped over a railing, neatly folded, or spread out on a bed or sofa.
The Importance of Photographing Your Quilt
Why take the time to photograph your quilt before giving it away or using it in your home? You’re preserving the memory of your creation, for one thing. Each quilt tells a unique story, from the pattern to the fabric choices to the hours of labor. Photographs serve as a visual record of your accomplishment.
Additionally, sharing your quilt photos can inspire and connect with fellow quilters. Platforms like Nebraska Quilt Company's Facebook group are perfect for showcasing your work, exchanging ideas, and gaining feedback from a supportive community.
Tips for the Perfect Shot
- Clean and Tidy: Ensure your quilt is clean and free from any loose threads or lint before photographing. You might want to iron your work, unless you’re going for the crinkly quilt look, in which case, make sure to launder the quilt to maximize the texture.
- Steady Hands: Keep your phone steady. If necessary, lean against a wall or other steady surface to avoid blur. Or you could pick up an affordable tripod online.
- Detail Shots: Capture the intricate details and patterns up close.
- Editing: Basic editing tools on your phone can enhance the colors and sharpness of the image. Don’t worry about it too much, though; let the quilt's natural beauty shine.
Remember, photography is an art, and practice makes perfect. Have fun! Experiment and explore different techniques to find what works best for your quilt.
This simple outdoors setting lets the colors and textures shine on the Zoe Quilt (kit available at NQC):
Final Thoughts
Photographing your quilt is more than just capturing an image; it’s a way to immortalize your hard work and share it with the world. At Nebraska Quilt Company, we encourage you to take pride in your creations and embrace the beauty of your craftsmanship through photography. Join our vibrant quilting community and share your quilt photos in our Facebook community. Let's celebrate the art of quilting together!
We hope this information has given you ideas for how to get great photos of your quilts. At Nebraska Quilt Company, we are committed to the quilt community. We’re your source for classes, retreats, machines, patterns, fabric and more! Visit us online or in store to learn more.
Photo credits (Instagram): @figofabrics, @fairy_cakes, @madeonsugarbushlane, @loandbeholdstitchery