Collins Sh. How to Photograph Works of Art

AASLH Press, 1986. — 232 p.The book is a landmark among how-to books on photography in that it deals solely and specifically with the photography of art, an extremely complex subject long neglected by the how-to market.Eleven chapters of clear, straightforward prose, illustrated by nearly 200 of the author's black-and-white photos and diagrams and a 32-page color section, all with explanatory captions, trace the way, step by step, to coping with problems that must be solved with the tools at hand, the light available, and limited time for the assignment. Collins provides thorough discussions of cameras (35mm and large-format), lenses, filters, lighting equipment (material on stands, booms, and backgrounds is unique), with two major sections on photographing flat and three-dimensional art. Especially helpful are sections on electrical circuitry, tools and equipment, proper care and handling of art, film exposure and contrast control, color correction, and working on location, here and abroad. Five appendixes provide detailed information on setting up shop, view camera controls and lenses, buying equipment, and figuring exposure compensation for closeups and reciprocity departure.An invaluable reference book for anyone involved in photographing art objects: historians, photographers, museum people, conservators, private collectors, galleryowners, antique dealers, working artists, students traveling for study; and photographers doing catalogue and advertising still-life work will also find much that is useful.