How to Photograph Quilts

Quilts are made with different colors, stitching, materials and sizes. Capturing the details of the quilt is the focus of a good photograph. Making sure the quilt is straight, flat and set up properly is important. The piece shouldn't sag and the design shouldn't distort. Colors in the photograph that look washed out or are not true to those in the quilt can also be a problem. Learning to photograph quilts properly will eliminate many of these issues.

Things You'll Need

• Camera: digital or 35mm Tripod Cable release (optional)

Instructions

1. Hang the quilt on a wall. Use a level to ensure that it's straight and flat. You can also use a 4x8 piece of plywood, heavy foam board or a quilt hanger.

2. Use a neutral background. White or grey should be used to separate the quilt from the background in the photograph. This will make cropping the photo easier.

3. Use a tripod. Measure the horizontal middle of the quilt, and make a mark on the floor corresponding with that measurement. Place the tripod 5 to 10 feet back from that mark. The height of the tripod should be the same as the height at vertical center of the quilt. Use a yardstick or measuring tape. Use a level on the top of the camera, so the camera is squared. These steps are important to get an accurate shot. You'll need to use the camera's self-timer or a cable release to avoid camera shake.

4. You can photograph the quilt indoors or outdoors. If you're outdoors, take the pictures on an overcast day. Direct sunlight will wash out the colors and details of the quilt. If you're shooting indoors, hang the quilt by a large window to use indirect daylight. Turn off all other lights in the room.

5. Focus on the texture, stitching and design of the quilt. Try to get as much of the detail as you can. Shoot the quilt several times, changing the distance and focus, until you get the shot you want.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that the edges of the quilt are different in color from the background. Clean the camera's lens before photographing.

• Never use a flash for quilts. You should turn it off while photographing. Turn off anti-shake features on your camera.