Tips for Making Photo Sculptures

Photo sculptures are a relatively new addition to the sculpture world. Traditional sculptors usually don’t feel that this pop art style of sculpture is real art but whether they are or not doesn’t really matter to the people that love them. Because they are three dimensional solid pieces of art they are classified as sculptures. 

So what are photo sculptures? Photo sculptures are sculptures made from photos. Now, these are not sculptures made to look like a photo they are actual photos that are made into three dimensional art. They are often used for events and parties like weddings, birthdays and anniversaries. They can also be use to memorialize a loved one or pet that has passed away or to create innovative statues for your home or garden. Usually photo sculptures are made with either a wood or acrylic base that the actual sculpture is mounted to.

There are lots of professionals that can make photo sculptures but if you want to learn how to make your own photo sculptures here are some tips that can help you get started: 

Learn everything you can about photography

When you’re making a photo sculpture you’re not just creating a new sculpture you’re using someone else’s photo to create a sculpture. Before you can make the sculpture you’ll need to make the photo as perfect as possible which means air brushing, getting rid of red eye, correcting colors and scratches and so on. So learning how to do those things yourself will save you a lot of money because you won’t have to hire a photo editor to do them for you. 

The software matters

Don’t try to skimp on costs and get cheap photo editing or digital photo software. When you are creating the image that you will be using to make the sculpture the quality of the image is everything. So spend the money on high quality photo software that is recognized in the industry as being one of the best. Your customers will expect it. 

Practice as much as possible

Yes, as the saying goes "Practice Makes Perfect". Making photo sculptures can be tricky at first so practice as much as you can with old family photos and photos of your loved ones so that you can figure out what works for you when it comes to making these photo sculptures. The more you practice making photo sculptures the more your skill at it will grow. 

Get the image printed professionally

If you don’t have the resources to invest in a professional quality digital printer it’s a good idea to have the photo that you’re using for the sculpture professionally printed. The image needs to be super high quality because it’s going to be the main focus of the sculpture. High end professional printing equipment and paper can be pricey, so if you’re not 100% committed to making photo sculptures get the photos printed at a professional printing house instead of buying a lot of equipment you might not need later.