Taking A Booth Shot For Juried Art Fairs
- Rachel Christopoulos
- May 27
- 2 min read
Getting into juried shows sounds intimidating... well it is intimidating, but not because you don't believe in your work. It's because they require a booth shot and everyone wants to know what that means exactly.
The biggest difference between a makers market and a "Fine Art Fair" (besides the elitist and entitled attitude you can find) is the requirement of the booth shot. I've heard whispers of some shows only accepting artists with certain tents and walls and it sucks because it becomes such a barrier to artists looking to expand their selling method without spending $5,000+ on a stupid tent.
Of course it does depend on what type of work you're selling but really, all of that investment for a photo that is submitted to a show that you might not even get into?
Like I said, intimidating, scary, and frustrating.
But you know what, at least this post can be the last thing you ever have to look at when it comes to taking your own shot.
Why A Booth Shot Matters:
I'm convinced the only reasons a booth shot really matters are:
To showcase the way your art is stylized and arranged
Confirm accuracy of work and scale of art
Convey professionalism or a certain "look"
A booth shot is not just a stupid photo (even though I just called it that); it's a visual representation of your space and how you present your artwork. If your booth shot sucks, is grainy or filled with people, it can really impact your overall score.
So as much as we want to argue that it shouldn't matter, it actually really does.
How To Take A Booth Shot:
Set up your tent outside (on pavement if you can), at a time when you can get flattering natural lighting
Hang your artwork or arrange your art so there's a nice balance between what you make and available space. Don't feel the need to overstuff your space with plants, rugs, or tables. It's about your art - things you don't sell can be confusing for jurors flipping through submissions.
DO NOT PUT ANY SIGNAGE OR PERSONAL INFORMATION IN YOUR BOOTH. IT MUST BE ANONYMOUS. DO NOT SIT IN IT AND SMILE.
Frame your shot: you only need to get a nice photo of the walls of your booth. They don't need to see the canopy top or the grass or your parked car.
Snap the photo with your iPhone and edit it so it's bright and inviting.
THAT'S IT.
Rachel's Shoppe Booth Shot
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