Rings & Things - Common Image Problems

		Common Image Problems

Here are some basic tips and how-to instructions on what to avoid when photographing your creations. Don't just rely on us, though — take advantage of other picture-taking resources too. We offer links to some reliable sites in the "Free How-To Resources" section of our Contest Image Guidelines. For equipment, we recommend a 5-megapixel digital camera with an optical (not digital) zoom and an automatic close-up feature. Some models sell for under $200 (USD). Once you have the right equipment, you can use it for years to come, advertising your business and applying to juried shows. Getting the right equipment will go a long way towards avoiding these common image problems:

	Insufficient Dots Per Inch: One of the most common weaknesses with images we receive is that the printed image (seen by the judges) is too small. This happens when the image resolution is less than 300 dots per inch (dpi). Make sure your equipment can create an image with 300 dpi or more. We disqualify 72-dpi images during contest judging.

	Pixelation: A pixel is a single point in a digital image. When pixels are dense enough (in other words when the image's resolution is sufficient), they are not visible. However, if an image has a low resolution or is blown up to a larger size, the pixels will become visible, producing an effect similar to an out-of-focus shot. If you blow up a 72 dpi image so it will print at a larger size, you will end up with a pixelated image. One solution is to re-take the photo at a higher resolution.

	Stretched Images: Digital-photo editing programs offer fun possibilities for manipulating pictures, including the ability to change an image's shape. The problem with this is that an image can get distorted. To avoid accidentally stretching or squashing your digital shots, always check the "constrain proportions" box in your editing program. You can also maintain proportions by holding down the shift key when you click and drag to change an image's size.

	Out of Focus: You don't need to be a digital whiz to understand what an out-of-focus picture is. This problem happens at the time you hit the shutter, and can happen with any camera! Before taking each shot, be sure to experiment with your lens and settings until your creation is in crisp focus. You can help prevent accidental movements by holding your breath while you click the shutter. For best results, use a tripod to keep your camera still. Similarly to a pixelated image, an out-of-focus image will not provide our judges with sufficient details to determine the quality of a design.

	Poor Lighting: A poorly lit image also does not convey sufficient information for the judging process. To achieve nice, even lighting, consider shooting outside in the shade. Use small, white poster-board cards to reflect light into the shadowed areas of your creation. For indoor lighting, use the auto feature to slow the shutter speed (this option works with most cameras) — slowing the shutter speed lets in more light. If you do slow the shutter speed, be sure to use a tripod for an in-focus shot.

	An Acceptable Image: Acceptable contest entries include properly proportioned images that are well-lit, in-focus, contain 300+ dots per inch (dpi) and show most, if not all, of the piece being entered. The image shown here has been cut out from its background, but this is not a necessary step. In fact, we prefer non-cut-out images that are photographed on a plain, neutral background. Cutting out an image takes a lot of time and can reduce the quality of a final picture if not done well.