Purchase Guide: Photography

About Photography

When we think of art, we typically think of the great masterpieces of painting and illustration that the world has produced. In the last 200 years, however, a new medium of two-dimensional art has emerged that rivals even the greatest portraits of the classic eras: Photography. Photography is, of course, the process of capturing images on to light-sensitive medium, whether film or electronic sensor. Though it doesn't require the careful brushstrokes or hand shading of traditional visual arts, photography is no less valid a form of expression and carries with it techniques, tools, and opportunities all its own.

Especially with the recent rise of digital cameras, it seems to many that the only trick to getting a great photograph is simply clicking the shutter open. If only that were the case! Getting the perfect photo that you want can require a lot of patience and supplies, both before, after, and during the process of developing your prints. MisterArt.com can help you in your never-ending quest for the perfect photo by offering everyday discounts on all sorts of photography supplies!

For now, at least, we'll leave the cameras and film to your favorite local dealers and online merchants. Our specialty is providing the tools to help raise your photographic expression to the next level:

• backdrops,
• books and media,
• hand coloring and spotting supplies,
• lightboxes,
• presentation and storage materials, and
• accessories.

Backdrops

Backdrops are a great way to frame portraits and still-life photos, especially for commercial photography. MisterArt.com carries numerous kinds of backdrops to help you control the background in your photos. Many of our photography backdrops can serve a variety of other purposes as well:

• Theater backgrounds
• Wall coverings
• Bulletin board decorations
• Mural and poster materials

Our backdrops range from unprimed canvas in neutral colors to bold colored paper and patterned corrugated paper rolls. Don't be afraid to customize a backdrop with paint, pastels, or other art supplies to suit your needs!

Books and Media

MisterArt.com stocks a library of books and media designed to guide you through the process of mastering the medium of photography. From basics for beginners to tips and tricks for pros, reading and looking at examples is a great way to absorb more knowledge about the art form. Observe the use of light, shadow, and texture by other artists or brush up on the latest version of Adobe Photoshop!

Hand coloring and Spotting

Just because your prints have been developed doesn't mean that they're done! There are plenty of ways to express yourself with photographs, including hand coloring and spotting them. These techniques allow artists to combine photography with elements of painting and illustration to refine photos or create wholly original works of art.

Photo pencil sets and photo oils allow you to add and blend colors into your photographic prints.

Extender lightens color in your photos.

Spotter brushes allow you to paint fine details onto your photos.

Marlene removes undesired color.

You can find everyday discounts on these supplies and more at MisterArt.com!

Lightboxes

A lightbox is a boxy device containing several light bulbs covered by a pane of frosted glass. It's mainly used to easily view and sort translucent films, including slides. Typically, a lightbox has a uniform output across its glass top of a brightness comparable to daylight. This is to help avoid eye strain when using it. Lightboxes also work great for illuminating works that you're tracing.

MisterArt.com carries lightboxes in many sizes, from small and portable to large and heavy.

Presentation and Storage

What good are your photographs if you can't show them off? Whether you're mounting them for framing or sticking them in a scrapbook or album, properly storing and caring for your photos can ensure that they'll be around for you to enjoy and share for years to come.

MisterArt.com's presentation and storage supplies serve a variety of functions to keep your photos attractive and undamaged:

Adhesives allow you to mount your photos onto the pages of a scrapbook or onto mounting board for matting and framing.

Hinges and photo corners are also great for mounting, without the potential mess or permanence of an adhesive.

Laminating film can protect your photos from the ravages of time, the elements, and rough handling.

Photo books and albums allow you to display and store your favorite photos safely and take them with you anywhere.

You can find these presentation and storage supplies and many more at MisterArt.com!

Accessories

MisterArt.com also carries a nice selection of accessories to help you safely handle, alter, and preserve your photographs and photography equipment. Whether you're masking, scrapbooking, or enlarging your photos, we've got what you need! MisterArt.com also carries accessories designed to keep your photos and equipment free from dust.

Adhesives allow you to mount your photos on to the pages of a scrapbook or onto mounting board for matting and framing.

Hinges and photo corners are also great for mounting, without the potential mess or permanence of an adhesive.

Laminating film can protect your photos from the ravages of time, the elements, and rough handling.

Photo books and albums allow to display and store your favorite photos safely and take them with you anywhere.