The Cygnets National Art Awards 2025 deadline is at the end of this month (31st October) so now is the perfect time to get your entries ready! However, don’t let a poor photo hold your artwork back. We’ve put together 4 simple tips to help you capture your work in the best light and make your submission shine.
1. Use Natural Light ☀️
Try and capture your artwork in natural daylight, avoiding any harsh sunlight or bright lamps that may cause glare or shadows across your artwork. If taking your photo indoors, it’s best to place your artwork near a window with even light.
2. Fill The Frame 🖼️
Before you take your photo, try and plan the shot by finding a plain, simple background to shoot against, be it a white sheet or against a blank wall – this allows your artwork to standout with no distractions. Place your artwork atop or in front of your chosen background and make sure it’s flat.
Then with your camera, make sure the full piece of art is visible and fills the frame, with edges straight and no cut-offs.
3. Keep A Steady Hand 🤳
Now it’s time for lights, camera, action! Hold your phone or camera still to avoid any blurriness and to capture all the details clearly, leaving a slight border around the edges where you will see the background.
It’s important to note that, if your artwork is 3D (such as a sculpture), photograph it from different angles so the form is clear.
4. Crop Your Photo ✂️
And lastly, crop the photo so only the artwork shows and we can appreciate it in its full glory. Then save and name the file with the student’s full name, age, and medium used – for example: Emily Smith_Age 10_Painting
How to Apply
You can apply on our awards website here, by filling in the submission form and uploading your artwork. We can’t wait to see all the entries come in!
