- Set your camera to take a very high quality image. This will create a very large file size. Make sure that the camera is squared up to the painting when you take the photograph, so that the painting will not create a skewed or distorted image. (A tripod works best.) Transfer the image to your computer. Make a copy of it and make photographic edits with that copy.
- Crop the image. Make sure that the mat, frame, fingers, or any other extra material does not show. Only your painting should show.
- Resize the image to 900 pixels on the longest leg. If it is a horizontal image, the horizontal leg should be 900 pixels wide. If it is a vertical the vertical leg should be 900 pixels wide.
- Set the resolution to 300 dpi.
- Save the painting with a new name, as follows: LastNameFirstInitial_FullTitle_hxw (in inches of unframed paintings size). If your name is Jane Doe and the painting titled “Sunrise, Sunset” that is 16” x 20”, the file name of the image will look like: DoeJ_Sunrise,Sunset_16x20.
- Save the image as a high quality jpg. When you perform the “Save As” function, you will be given the option of high to low quality. Select the highest.
- If your camera or computer software does not give you the necessary options for saving your files as specified, consider buying Photoshop Elements or get someone who has the proper software to help you. Images not meeting the requirements stated in the entry form may be disqualified.
- Copy the image(s) to a CD for submitting with your entry form. Write your name and 2012 Statewide Exhibit on the CD with a marker or Sharpie. NO CD labels.
- Burn your CD. If you do not perform the “burn” function, nothing is written on the CD. When you are done, eject the CD and then reopen it to double check that your images are recorded on the CD.