3.2 Documenting 3-D Work

Show every angle

3-D work must be photographed from multiple angles — because form exists in space, a single view can't capture it. Show the most informative views of each piece.

Lighting and background

Use even, revealing lighting and a clean, neutral background so form, texture, and detail read clearly. Shadows can help describe 3-D form.

Process and scale

Document your process (experiments, construction stages) and give a sense of scale. The portfolio is judged from images, so documentation is critical for 3-D work.

Key terms

Multiple angles

photograph 3-D work from several informative views

Single view limit

one photo can't capture a 3-D form

Lighting & background

even light, clean neutral background

Shadows

can help describe three-dimensional form

Scale & process

show size and document construction stages

Try an AP-style question

Documenting 3-D process can include…

1. maquettes, sketches, and in-progress photos
2. finished sculptures and nothing else
3. receipts for clay and supplies
4. images unrelated to the work