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Quick & Easy Tips for Taking Professional Quality Images of Glass Art

I love seeing all the new, creative projects being shared online in our glass groups. You are making amazing, beautiful pieces. It’s apparent from the well thought out compositions and quality construction that our community has grown in skill and talent.

Such wonderful art can be even more impressive with a great picture.

Myth buster: you don’t need expensive photo equipment and fancy lights to get a clean, clear, impressive picture of your art.

Yes, there’s a time, and purpose for high quality professional gallery grade images like those taken in a photo cube. But not every piece of art needs that level of sophistication to show well. You can take really nice pictures with simple techniques and a little planning.

The most important element of your fine art picture is the background. It should be plain and enhance the art without distracting the eye.

Here’s how to make your own effective photo set-up.

Prior to making art for galleries, all of the pictures of my finished fused glass art were taken with very simple set up. I’d place a wooden bar-height, bar stool on my work table. I’d place the bar stool in an area filled with strong natural light Then I’d tape a long, 24 inch wide piece of white paper high up on the bar stool legs. The paper would hang down from the legs and drape across the table. The paper made a bright, seamless backdrop that showed off my glass art without unwanted distractions. I still use this fast, easy technique for quick pictures today.

This picture was taken outside on white foam board.

Another super, simple set-up is to photograph your art on a sheet of white foam board or white poster board. The board has a reflective sheen that enhances the bright glass colors. The smooth surface brings the glass to life. I keep a clean board tucked away behind a door where it won’t get bent or dirty. Then when I need a quick picture, I pull it out and shoot away. It’s also a convenient backdrop if I want to take a picture outside. I carry the board and art into the yard and can pick a variety of filtered light sources for my photo shoot. Note: I avoid using white cotton fabric as a background. The fine woven texture absorbs the glass shine and makes the project look dull and lifeless.

Glass can be particularly difficult to photograph due to the bright colors, transparency and reflective qualities. But both of these set-ups have worked well for me. The clean white backgrounds ensure that the real colors and intricate details of my art shine bright and true.

Quick Tips for Great Images

Photograph the art on white paper, foam board or poster board.

Use natural light to illuminate the glasses true colors.

Avoid using florescent lights, they leave a yellow tint on the art glass.

Take multiple pictures from several different angles.

Avoid clutter in the background.

If you include a background, use something that enhances the art. It shouldn’t distract of confuse the viewer.

Crop the image with the camera. Get in tight. Fill the view finder with the art.

Center the art in the picture.

Take the picture at eye level for a true representation of the art.

Make sure the image of the art is level with the bottom of the photo and not at a distracting angle.

Once you have the shot. Try different creative compositions to see if something unexpected delivers a unique perspective.

You can take really nice pictures with simple techniques and a little planning. You worked hard on your newest project. Don’t stop there. It deserves a great picture to show it off!

Happy fusing!

Lisa

 Follow my blog for more tips and tricks!

Artist Website www.lisajvogt.com
YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhOifd7wukk
Facebook www.Facebook.com/LisaJVogt
Twitter https://twitter.com/lisajvogt
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lvogt_originalsinglass/

Watercolor Technique Webinar with Lisa Vogt

New Webinar Date
Watercolor Techniques & Advanced Fusing Design with Lisa Vogt June 1, 2021

Register here: https://www.glasspatterns.com/glass-patterns-quarterly-store/product/1536-watercolor-techniques-advanced-fusing-design-with-lisa-vogt-june-1-2021.html

Learn how to make gorgeous, vividly decorated nature themed fused glass designs in this comprehensive webinar.

Master the art of design, pattern, and color.

Join me and I’ll show you how quickly and easily you can ramp up the visual intricacy of your work in just a few steps. I’ll share my personally developed, “watercolor style,” approach to shading and highlighting glass.

You will love the easy-to-follow instruction and seeing how to create elaborately detailed works of art with a gorgeous three-dimensional flair.

In this webinar you will learn how to use advanced artistic techniques like a pro. Beginner, intermediate and advanced fusers alike will enjoy applying the many simple, yet effective techniques I share in this in-depth, live event.

Plus, as a special bonus I include step-by-step instruction on how to use failed projects. I’ll explain in detail how to solve problems and how to ensure successful projects moving forward.

I also include my custom firing guides, project patterns and materials list in PDF form.

You will be fired up and eager to apply these new techniques to enhance the beauty and charm of your work.

Currents as seen in Sculptural Fused Glass Video

My April and May classes are SOLD OUT
New Date!
Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop September 21 – 24, 2021
Register today! 4 seat available.
Register here!
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.

This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.

It’s hard to describe what it’s like when I’m feeling the creative flow. Time flies. Hours pass in what I thought were minutes. My naturally distracted mind is focused on what my hands are doing, and nothing else. I get lost in my own world. When I return to reality, I feel rejuvenated and spiritually uplifted. That’s why I like sharing my studio space with others. I try to give them that experience and hope they feel the same inspiration and fulfillment I do. -Lisa

 This class is for you! Any skill level can attend. Beginner, intermediate and advanced students alike will learn how to advance their glass fusing skills and expand their artistic style.

 Join me and I’ll show you all the pro tips and tricks I use to make stunning 3-dimnesional art. You’ll learn how to combine advanced techniques in new ways to create extraordinary sculptural pieces of art.

You’ll leave class with several completed glass sculptures, my custom firing guides and a deeper understanding of sculptural fused glass fabrication. You’ll have the knowledge, confidence, and inspiration you’ve been craving to take your artwork to the next level.

Materials are included, that’s a $150.00 value!

Here’s what students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

 “I feel I got the movement toward developing my own creativity this week. I was surprised that the things I already knew fit into the new knowledge I was getting in this class. Lisa is an excellent teacher who is tuned into what is going on in the class. She puts no pressure on the students when I know she could when we were dragging our feet. I was absolutely comfortable with the classroom set up and cleanliness of the studio. Will see you again soon.” -Judy

 Here’s what the students from my November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.

“There is a wealth of material, tools and possible projects. Lisa is very motivating, informative, and supportive. The variety of materials is amazing. The number of projects we made in 4 days is beyond what I expected. The classroom set up was very well organized. I felt completely comfortable and safe with plenty of space and sanitizer. This class was beyond my expectations.” -Jane

 “My favorite thing was Lisa’s knowledge and wealth of information. I was surprised by how many projects we made. I was very comfortable with the classroom set up and loved everything about this class. I learned so much and it was fun. My least favorite part was Friday at 4:00 pm.” -Liz

 “My favorite thing about this class was the variety of glass and other materials. Unlimited dichroic! I was comfortable with the classroom set up; Lisa had lots of little personal touches that made it special. Thanks for the wonderful lunches!” -Gail

 Student comments from previous classes.

 “My favorite part about the class was the non-stop building and the generous amount of materials available. What surprised me about the class was how full the schedule was. Usually, you do 1 project. We did 5 in 4 days. Thank you so much for your generosity.”   -Christine 

“My favorite part about the class was the variety of projects we made. What surprised me was the number of projects we completed. Awesome experience – will come again in the future.” -Monica

“Instruction was clear, help was always available, and Lisa’s explanation of the equipment was great.” -Sherry

“My favorite thing about the class was the friendly atmosphere that encouraged open thoughts and sharing ideas.” -Lyn

“I enjoyed making all the projects, especially the flow piece and the freedom to be creative with our work.”  -Joy

“My favorite thing about the class was the ability to see multiple pieces of art that originated from concepts taught.” -Vicki

“Lisa is very professional, knowledgeable and freakishly talented. House, art, mosaic, her work – really fun and beautiful.” -Lorna

 “Incredible class. Lisa shared her artistic knowledge of color flow and her technical knowledge of glass.” -Larry

 “I had so much fun! Lisa is a great teacher!” -Brenda

Artwear

 Artwear Designed for Artists by Artists Tell them how you really feel with bold T-shirts, Eco-conscience tote bags and sassy mugs.

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Videos for every skill level and interest.

 Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

Inspiration is here. Ebooks for all skill levels.

Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions. 

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5 Reasons Why Pro Fusers Take Notes

Being artsy and creating original art is exciting. It feeds the mind, body and soul with inner joy and peace.

Glass fusing has broad appeal due to the ease at which plain sheet glass can be transformed into flashy pieces of art. It’s this facet that makes this medium attractive to artists and crafters who love hands-on immersion.

But glass fusing is different from other mediums. Kiln operation and following firing guidelines make glass fusing science as much as art. Of course, you can ignore that reality. Stay in the safe zone, using pre-programed kilns and adhering to standard firing schedules. Copy and make the same reliable projects that everyone else is sharing. But the real exciting creations are inspired by stepping outside of your comfort zone. To stretch your imagination and take your art to an all new level of amazing, you must take your work more seriously.

Approach your hobby like a pro.

Get organized. The best way to master the technical aspects of science, and benefit from your process is to take notes of your work in progress. Once the technical aspects are under control, the artist is free to focus on the creative development of the art.

You argue, why stop the creative flow to take boring notes?

Here’s why the pros take notes.

1 Creative inspiration.

We’re human. We forget intricate details. Remembering the big, broad strokes is easy. It’s the tiny nuances that drift away like fluffy dandelion seeds on the wind. These seemingly insignificant concepts are what make your art your own, unique creations.

Pros take notes even when making routine pieces. They know that new design ideas come from recycling and reorganizing old tried and trusted design ideas. Often, my groundbreaking innovations are the product of combining an unlikely variety of tiny concepts. I pull minor techniques from previously made art and merge them to develop a single new creation.

Plus, if you’re consistent and establish good note talking habits, you’ll free up mind space previously dedicated to remembering your methods. This open-air gives new ideas room to live and grow.

2 Find encouragement.

A notebook is black and white proof you’re making progress. No matter how small, every entry is positive reinforcement that you’re learning new things, trying new techniques, and growing your creative style. It’s a tribute to hard work and an ego boost whenever you need encouragement to forge ahead.

Success is a terrific confidence builder. When you have a notebook full of great success stories it promotes cheerful production. At any time, you can flip through those messy pages and marvel over all the beautiful pieces you’ve made.

It’s a thrill to revisit simple projects you thought you’d outgrown. You remember how much fun it was to lose yourself in the creative zone and consider remaking old favorites for the joy of it. That’s priceless.

3 Build self-confidence.

By taking detailed notes of a project’s progress as its made, it’s easy to repeat successful projects with confidence. I consult my notes when I want to repeat projects quickly and easily with accuracy.

Notes are also a great reference for new project development. With them I can plan new design directions knowing what outcome to expect from certain advanced techniques. This knowledge frees me to focus my full attention on creating a revolutionary new design.

Lemon Plate as seen in Artfull Home with Lisa Vogt video

4 Learn from your mistakes.

Another, huge benefit to cataloging your methods is you can retrace your steps backwards when disaster strikes to pinpoint where it went wrong. It’s a valuable teaching tool you can use to learn from your mistakes. With notes you can efficiently repeat your successes and avoid failures in the future.

In my experience, taking notes drastically improves the overall quality and success of my projects. Documenting assembly and firing methods minimizes problems and gives me the self-confidence to experiment.

Lemon Plate as seen in Artfull Home with Lisa Vogt video
Lemon Plate as seen in Artfull Home with Lisa Vogt video

5 Trail blaze new ideas.

Pioneering new design concepts is exciting and scary. When I’m commissioned to design original art, I consult my fusing notebook for guidance. I look up projects that are similar in size and thickness to the new job. I study projects that are larger and projects that are smaller. With that information, I develop a custom firing schedule for the new job. I write a program that’s conservative, to avoid breakage, and yet gives me the desired results I promised the client.

Like you, I don’t want to waste time, money, or material on failures. We all want to start a project knowing that the finished artwork will bring our beautifully imagined vision to life. If it doesn’t, the failure is devastating. By taking notes, you can approach new design ideas with greater confidence. By knowing the parameters that have worked successfully in the past, you can take on more challenging projects and enjoy success in the future.

Pros make it a habit.

Taking notes is the best thing you can do to improve the quality and increase the complexity of your art. Good habits are as hard to break as bad habits. Form good habits.

Be a pro.

Lemon Plate as seen in Artfull Home with Lisa Vogt video
Artfull Home with Lisa Vogt video

 

Happy fusing!

Lisa

Follow my blog for more tips and tricks!

Artist Website www.LisaVogt.net
YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhOifd7wukk
Facebook www.Facebook.com/LisaJVogt
Author Website https://lisajvogtcom.wordpress.com/
Twitter https://twitter.com/lisajvogt
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lvogt_originalsinglass/

 My April 2021 Class is SOLD OUT!

Currents as seen in Sculptural Fused Glass Video

NEW DATE!
 Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop May 25-28, 2021
Register today! 4 seat available.
Register here!
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.

This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.

It’s hard to describe what it’s like when I’m feeling the creative flow. Time flies. Hours pass in what I thought were minutes. My naturally distracted mind is focused on what my hands are doing, and nothing else. I get lost in my own world. When I return to reality, I feel rejuvenated and spiritually uplifted. That’s why I like sharing my studio space with others. I try to give them that experience and hope they feel the same inspiration and fulfillment I do. -Lisa

This class is for you! Any skill level can attend. Beginner, intermediate and advanced students alike will learn how to advance their glass fusing skills and expand their artistic style.

 Join me and I’ll show you all the pro tips and tricks I use to make stunning 3-dimnesional art. You’ll learn how to combine advanced techniques in new ways to create extraordinary sculptural pieces of art.

You’ll leave class with several completed glass sculptures, my custom firing guides and a deeper understanding of sculptural fused glass fabrication. You’ll have the knowledge, confidence, and inspiration you’ve been craving to take your artwork to the next level.

Materials are included, that’s a $150.00 value!

Here’s what students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

 “I feel I got the movement toward developing my own creativity this week. I was surprised that the things I already knew fit into the new knowledge I was getting in this class. Lisa is an excellent teacher who is tuned into what is going on in the class. She puts no pressure on the students when I know she could when we were dragging our feet. I was absolutely comfortable with the classroom set up and cleanliness of the studio. Will see you again soon.” -Judy

 Here’s what the students from my November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.

 “There is a wealth of material, tools and possible projects. Lisa is very motivating, informative, and supportive. The variety of materials is amazing. The number of projects we made in 4 days is beyond what I expected. The classroom set up was very well organized. I felt completely comfortable and safe with plenty of space and sanitizer. This class was beyond my expectations.” -Jane

 “My favorite thing was Lisa’s knowledge and wealth of information. I was surprised by how many projects we made. I was very comfortable with the classroom set up and loved everything about this class. I learned so much and it was fun. My least favorite part was Friday at 4:00 pm.” -Liz

“My favorite thing about this class was the variety of glass and other materials. Unlimited dichroic! I was comfortable with the classroom set up; Lisa had lots of little personal touches that made it special. Thanks for the wonderful lunches!” -Gail

 Student comments from previous classes.

“My favorite part about the class was the non-stop building and the generous amount of materials available. What surprised me about the class was how full the schedule was. Usually, you do 1 project. We did 5 in 4 days. Thank you so much for your generosity.”   -Christine 

 “My favorite part about the class was the variety of projects we made. What surprised me was the number of projects we completed. Awesome experience – will come again in the future.” -Monica

“Instruction was clear, help was always available, and Lisa’s explanation of the equipment was great.” -Sherry

“My favorite thing about the class was the friendly atmosphere that encouraged open thoughts and sharing ideas.” -Lyn

“I enjoyed making all the projects, especially the flow piece and the freedom to be creative with our work.”  -Joy

“My favorite thing about the class was the ability to see multiple pieces of art that originated from concepts taught.” -Vicki

“Lisa is very professional, knowledgeable and freakishly talented. House, art, mosaic, her work – really fun and beautiful.” -Lorna

 “Incredible class. Lisa shared her artistic knowledge of color flow and her technical knowledge of glass.” -Larry

 “I had so much fun! Lisa is a great teacher!” -Brenda

 NEW Artwear Designed for Artists by Artists Tell them how you really feel with bold T-shirts, Eco-conscience tote bags and sassy mugs.

Instructional videos for all skill levels and interests.

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

eBooks full of inspiration.

 Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions. 

Posted on Leave a comment

Welcome 2021!

The new year is here and I’m excited about a fresh start, but before moving forward I want to share 2020 with you in pictures. The year was full of difficult challenges for us all, but there were bright spots and good, memorable moments. Life is a journey. It may be tough at times, but that helps us learn to appreciate the little joys and personal relationships we cherish.

I took thousands of amazing pictures in 2020. Outside of glass, my family and nature are my favorite subjects. It was hard to narrow down my selection for you, so I made 4 picture groupings of related images. It’s my hope that these images bring you a sense of calm and tranquility that inspires positive thoughts and renewed creativity.

My amazing family.

 

Backyard visitors.

 

My favorite wildlife pictures.

 

Our trip to NY state.

 

Wildlife on the Hillsborough River.

 

Fun at the barn.

 

Staying busy at home.

 

Garden time.

 

Sharing the love.

 

Here’s to lots more pictures in 2021!

 

I look forward to sharing more glass art and pictures with you in 2021.

Happy Fusing!

Lisa

Follow my blog for more tips and tricks!

Website www.LisaJVogt.com
YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhOifd7wukk
Facebook www.Facebook.com/LisaJVogt
Twitter https://twitter.com/lisajvogt
Instagram @lvogt_originalsinglass
NEW Instagram @through_the_artists_lens

Interwoven as seen in Fused Glass Sculptures Webinar

 

Upcoming Webinar
Fused Glass Sculptures January 14, 2021
Register here: https://www.glasspatterns.com/glass-patterns-quarterly-store/category/208-live-webinar-events.html

Creating striking sculptural fused glass forms is easy when you know the professional tips and tricks! Join me in this comprehensive webinar and learn how easily you can put tried and true methods to use in unlikely ways, to create extraordinary sculptural art.

Enjoy the thrill of limitless possibilities.

In this in-depth webinar, you’ll learn pro tips and tricks for better glass cutting. See how to mix different fusible materials to make more elaborate designs.

You’ll be amazed how using standard slumping molds in unique ways can drastically improve the shape of your art. You’ll be inspired by the innovative combination of ordinary techniques I share. You’ll be confident to fuse glass after seeing how easy it is to load, program and fire a kiln.

Best of all, you’ll have an exclusive technical advantage with the advanced understanding of my dependable firing programs. And you’ll love the stunning three-dimensional results you can achieve by fusing all of these concepts together.

Beginner and advanced students alike will find inspiration, motivation and renewed artistic freedom from seeing the step-by-step construction of more than 5 sculptural projects in this webinar.

After this exciting webinar you’ll have the professional knowledge and increased confidence to incorporate these innovative methods in your new work. In addition, you’ll have a working knowledge of kiln operation, custom firing guides, and a deeper understanding of sculptural glass fusing fabrication.

You’ll have the burning desire, and the cool self-confidence, to take your passion to greater heights.

Join me January 14, 2021 for fusing, fun and a welcome opportunity to fuse glass with other enthusiastic glass artists around the world.

Currents by Lisa Vogt

 
NEW DATE!
Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop April 27-30, 2021
Register today! 4 seat available. Register here!  
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.

This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.

It’s hard to describe what it’s like when I’m feeling the creative flow. Time flies. Hours pass in what I thought were minutes. My naturally distracted mind is focused on what my hands are doing, and nothing else. I get lost in my own world. When I return to reality, I feel rejuvenated and spiritually uplifted. That’s why I like sharing my studio space with others. I try to give them that experience and hope they feel the same inspiration and fulfillment I do. -Lisa
 
This class is for you! Any skill level can attend. Beginner, intermediate and advanced students alike will learn how to advance their glass fusing skills and expand their artistic style.
 
Join me and I’ll show you all the pro tips and tricks I use to make stunning 3-dimnesional art. You’ll learn how to combine advanced techniques in new ways to create extraordinary sculptural pieces of art.

You’ll leave class with several completed glass sculptures, my custom firing guides and a deeper understanding of sculptural fused glass fabrication. You’ll have the knowledge, confidence, and inspiration you’ve been craving to take your artwork to the next level.

Materials are included, that’s a $150.00 value!

Here’s what the students from my recent November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.
 
“There is a wealth of material, tools and possible projects. Lisa is very motivating, informative, and supportive. The variety of materials is amazing. The number of projects we made in 4 days is beyond what I expected. The classroom set up was very well organized. I felt completely comfortable and safe with plenty of space and sanitizer. This class was beyond my expectations.” -Jane
 
“My favorite thing was Lisa’s knowledge and wealth of information. I was surprised by how many projects we made. I was very comfortable with the classroom set up and loved everything about this class. I learned so much and it was fun. My least favorite part was Friday at 4:00 pm.” -Liz
 
“My favorite thing about this class was the variety of glass and other materials. Unlimited dichroic! I was comfortable with the classroom set up; Lisa had lots of little personal touches that made it special. Thanks for the wonderful lunches!” -Gail
 
Student comments from previous classes.
 
“My favorite part about the class was the non-stop building and the generous amount of materials available. What surprised me about the class was how full the schedule was. Usually, you do 1 project. We did 5 in 4 days. Thank you so much for your generosity.”   -Christine 
 
“My favorite part about the class was the variety of projects we made. What surprised me was the number of projects we completed. Awesome experience – will come again in the future.” -Monica

“Instruction was clear, help was always available, and Lisa’s explanation of the equipment was great.” -Sherry
“My favorite thing about the class was the friendly atmosphere that encouraged open thoughts and sharing ideas.” -Lyn

“I enjoyed making all the projects, especially the flow piece and the freedom to be creative with our work.”  -Joy
“My favorite thing about the class was the ability to see multiple pieces of art that originated from concepts taught.” -Vicki

“Lisa is very professional, knowledgeable and freakishly talented. House, art, mosaic, her work – really fun and beautiful.” -Lorna
 
“Incredible class. Lisa shared her artistic knowledge of color flow and her technical knowledge of glass.” -Larry
 
“I had so much fun! Lisa is a great teacher!” -Brenda
 

NEW Artwear Designed for Artists by Artists Tell them how you really feel with bold T-shirts, Eco-conscience tote bags and sassy mugs.

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!
 
 
Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.
 

Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions.