How to Photograph Your Crochet Patterns

The fact that we can grab a hook and some yarn and create something from scratch makes us all artists. Just by making a few knots and loops and joining a few pieces together makes us masters at our own craft. And what's the best part about finishing a crochet pattern? Bragging about it of course! What better way to brag about your masterpiece than to flaunt about it all over social media, share it with your friends and family and write a blog post about it.

Because there are many people who don't get to see your crochet pattern in person the most important part about posting your project is the photograph. Did you know that photography means to write with light? You'll often hear a photographer say that they "make" a photograph, not "take" a photograph. There are so many photography techniques and photography tips out there that can make your photo really stand out. Here you'll read about some great ways to photograph your stitches.
 

How to Photograph Your Crochet Patterns
 

Who: Anyone can photograph their own crochet patterns. You don't have to get paid or have a career in photography. Any crafter or crocheter who wants a record of their accomplishments or who wants to showcase the characteristics of the piece can take a photo.
 

Where: A photograph can be taken anywhere. Again, you don't need a professional studio. In fact, some of the best places to take a photo is in our natural environment where going towards the light gives you the best result.
 

When: Photography can take place at any time during the process - before, during and after shots can really help tell the story of how your crochet pattern came about. It might also help others with step-by-step instructions.
 

How: We need to make a shot list before actually shooting our crochet patterns. Make a list of goals or determine what story you want to tell through your piece. Do you want to show the whole item? Do you want a close-up of the stitch work? Or do you simply want to see how the item looks on a person?
 

Creating a Good Setting: Figure out where you want to photograph your crochet pattern. Adding props can really help tell a story. If you're outdoors use your environment. The trees, the grass, a fence, or a bench can all provide something different. Find bright contrasting colors and textures to make your work pop. Walk around your subject and show different angles, do a composite and show all the different ways to wear the piece. Get out of your box, don't just take a straight shot; it'll draw people to the face, not the crochet piece. Be aware of distractions and what's in the background of your setting.
 

Finding or Making Good Light: This will easily capture what you are going for. A large window will provide an amazing amount of light if you are shooting your stitch work indoors; let the natural light fall where you need it. Open the front door and shoot your piece in the doorway; it'll give you just enough natural light, yet give you a bit of mystery on the other side. Right before sunrise and sunset are the "golden" times to take an outdoor photo. A photography lighting tip - If you're photographing your crochet pattern indoors you can work with artificial light. However, be sure you notice the color of your lamps. Do you need more than one lamp? Is it bright enough? Do you need to get rid of shadows? These are all things to consider.
 

Look Before You Shoot: Pay attention to backgrounds, look for interest such as diagonal lines or circles, make sure the colors go nicely together or contrast beautifully. Off center photos can really say a lot. Get creative and try something new.

Photography Tricks: Practice, practice, practice. Practice with your crochet pattern or practice with any item in your home. Try new angles, different environments and props. A neat digital photography tip is to put Vaseline on the lens of the flash for a whole new look. Experiment with your settings, but also know and understand your camera. The flash CAN be your friend. Get creative and have fun doing it.
 

Do you have any photography techniques you use for shooting your crochet patterns?

Once you've gotten the perfect shot to brag about, learn how to care for your handmade items.