How to photograph your artwork behind glass

Photographing artwork behind glass can be tricky, but with the right setup you can dramatically reduce reflections.  Here are the most effective, practical tips that artists and galleries use.

1. Change the angle

Never shoot straight on.

  • Stand slightly to the left or right of the artwork (around 5–15°).
  • Tilt the camera just enough so reflections bounce away from the lens.
  • Keep the artwork square by correcting perspective later if needed.

2. Control the light source

Reflections come from light hitting the glass and bouncing back.

  • Turn off overhead lights directly above or behind you.
  • Avoid shooting with windows, lamps, or bright walls behind the camera.
  • If possible, shoot in a darker room with controlled lighting.

3. Use soft, side lighting

  • Place lights to the side of the artwork, not facing it.
  • Use two lights at 45° angles on either side for even illumination.
  • Diffuse the light using softboxes, sheer fabric, or white umbrellas.

4. Wear dark clothing

It sounds odd, but it works.

  • Wear black or dark colours so you don’t appear reflected in the glass.
  • Avoid light shirts or patterns.

5. Use a polarising filter

  • A circular polarising filter on your camera lens can significantly reduce reflections.
  • Rotate the filter while looking through the viewfinder until reflections fade.
  • This works especially well for framed works behind glass.

6. Block reflections with a “black shield”

A gallery trick:

  • Hold or mount a piece of black card or fabric with a hole for the lens in front of the camera.
  • This gives the glass nothing bright to reflect.

7. Use indirect natural light

  • Photograph near a window but with the artwork facing away from it.
  • Use reflected light bouncing off a white wall rather than direct sunlight.
  • Overcast days are ideal.

8. Clean the glass thoroughly

Dust and smudges catch light.

  • Clean with a microfibre cloth before shooting.
  • Check with a torch or phone light to spot marks.

9. Increase distance and zoom slightly

  • Step back and zoom in a little rather than shooting close-up.
  • This narrows the angle of reflected light entering the lens.

10. When possible: remove the glass

For professional listings:

  • If the artwork can safely be photographed without the glass, this is always preferred.
  • The frame can be shown in a separate image if needed.