One of our member artists, Markus Linke, recently wrote up a very helpful guide for photographing in HDR. His tutorial gives in-depth, step-by-step instructions on how to create high dynamic range (HDR) pictures using your digital camera, photomatix and photoshop.

Read Markus’ tutorial on his blog, which includes before and after pictures of the process as well.

Markus also cites Trey Ratcliff, one of our other members’ tutorial, as helping him through the process as well. Markus’ process is slightly different than Trey’s so they are both worth the read.

HDR is one of the most rapidly growing photography trends. Do a search for HDR photography on Imagekind and you’ll find nearly 6,000 images available.

When done correctly, it gives the photograph a lifelike quality unmatched by most other processes. The lighting, shadows and reflections all look sharper and more realistic.

Shop HDR photos on Imagekind.

Featured HDR Artwork:
Tone Mapped by Markus Linke
The Calm After the Storm by Trey Ratcliff
Welcome to the 21st Century by Mr Vedd

Today is Jackson Pollock’s birthday. Google has a special logo for the day that features his iconic style, reminiscent of his Convergence painting.

Shop Jackson Pollock framed prints on Imagekind

Jackson Pollock Biography

Nicknamed “Jack the Dripper,” Pollock would literally drip paint (of the most toxic variety) on his canvases in order to create his paintings. He was the first action painter, meaning that he would drip, pour, throw and splash his paint onto very large canvases which were often laid flat on the floor of his New York studio. Many say he would dance, as though in a trance, as he created his masterpieces.

Number 18 by Jackson Pollock

Born in 1912, Pollock was one of the most influential American Abstract Expressionist painters. By the time of his death on August 11, 1956, his work and example were exerting an enormous influence on his contemporaries both in the United States and western Europe. He was one of the few American painters to be recognized during his lifetime and afterward as the peer of 20th-century European masters of modern art.

Shop Jackson Pollock framed prints on Imagekind

Create your own Jackson Pollock painting

Visit jacksonpollock.org

Here are some Emily and I made!

Pollock by Nate

Emily Loves Jackson by Emily

Deciding how to decorate with fine art prints can be a stressful process.

The constant second guessing of what will look good on the wall, where things should go, what art should be paired together, can often lead to an overwhelming sense of confusion. However, displaying and decorating with wall art doesn’t need to be that difficult. In fact, it can be quite fun and rewarding.

Natasha Wescoat, one of our member artists, has five tips for displaying artwork on her blog that I found particularly insightful.

Here’s what Natasha has to say about Rotating and Displaying Art:

1. Create a group of art/photos on the wall to create an interesting focal point and eclectic feel. Plan the way you want to hang them by doing placement on the floor, and then map out where they will go. Having prints, originals, or sculpture together in a group looks beautiful and complex.
2. Use an easel to display paintings. This adds interest and dimension as well as provides for ease of change. And no need for tools! (unless you intend to BUILD an easel.)
3. Set art on the floor. With the right structure, sturdy paintings as well as framed prints can be displayed separately or in clusters under tables, against walls, or in corners. It adds depth and energy to the area. Be sure you don’t do this with LARGE pieces, or they may warp.
4. Display art inside glass door cabinets or standing on shelves along with other artifacts, such as books or collectibles. It’s modern and exciting!
5. Rotate your art collection! Another great refreshing splash to any room is to switch out artwork for other ones. Display a new set of works each week, month, season, or special occasion. It’s nice to have a huge art collection to be able to do this. Rotating your art collection freshens up a room and makes everything feel new. People will ask if you renovated your living room!

If you are looking for more design tips, make sure to check out Imagekind where you can find all kinds of great resources and ideas.

From everyone at Imagekind we want to wish you a very happy holidays!

Have a Merry Christmas, Happy  Hanukkah, great Boxing Day, or any other holiday you might celebrate. Above all, enjoy family, friends and be safe; whatever treacherous weather you might find yourself in this season!

Please note: The Imagekind offices will be closed December 25 in observance of Christmas.

Miss the shipping deadlines? No worries, it’s never too late to send an Imagekind e-Gift Card

With the Imagekind Gift Card, you can shop from over one million framed art prints. Or choose to create your own masterpiece and frame your photos or print them on canvas.

Need some last minute inspiration? Don’t forget to shop the Imagekind Gift Guide and find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.