The Shutterstock Blog

16 Tips on Creating Gorgeous Watercolor Illustrations for Stock

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 10:00:00 GMT

We asked five talented artists to divulge their secrets for creating watercolor illustrations that sell on a continuous basis. Here are their top tips.

If the mid-18th to mid-19th Century represented “the Golden Age of watercolor” for painters like John Constable, Richard Parkes Bonington, and John Sell Cotman, then perhaps we’re now entering another one. This time, however, watercolors aren’t only on canvas. They’re on book covers and business cards, in logos and website designs, and beyond.

Watercolor’s popularity is on the rise. Image by Tina Bits.

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“I feel that watercolors have become very popular in the last few years, even though they are more timeless than ‘trendy,’” Estonian-based artist Tina Bits tells us. Some products seem to have been made for this medium — like wedding invitations, nursery art, wrapping paper patterns, and home decor and kitchen art, just to name a few.

We asked five talented artists to impart their secrets for creating watercolor illustrations that sell on a regular basis. Read on for their best tips for creating marketable, evergreen work — from figurative paintings to abstract art, and everything in-between.

1. Start Cheap

Start with inexpensive materials in the early stages of learning. Image by Nadya Dobrynina.

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“My advice to emerging illustrators is to start and keep going,” Russian-based artist Nadya Dobrynina urges. “It’s very rare to get a perfect watercolor painting after you’ve just started, but it is important to keep practicing, watching tutorials, reading books, and gathering inspiration.’

“For that reason, the brand of watercolors and paper in those early stages is not important. You need to be able to work without fear of ruining a piece of expensive paper; otherwise, you would never start drawing. The most important thing is to paint every day, no matter the materials. That’s the advice I wish I’d received early in my career.”

2. Go Abstract

Experiment with different paints and textures. Image by Nadya Dobrynina.

“Watercolor is an excellent material for creating abstract compositions,” Dobrynina continues. “You can play with different paints and experiment with texture, stain, strokes, and more. I derive great pleasure from experimenting.”

The simplicity of watercolor is often its selling point. Image by Nadya Dobrynina.

These abstract compositions are also in demand among commercial clients. “My best-selling watercolor illustrations are my animals and my abstract backgrounds,” Dobrynina says. “My animals are painted very carefully, and they turned out masterfully, so that wasn’t a surprise to me. But the popularity of the backgrounds did surprise me initially, as they are quite simple. Maybe it’s because they are versatile and adaptable.”

3. Maintain a List of Keywords

Keep a list of keywords for each painting. Image by Tina Bits.

Some artists add keywords to their work during the uploading process, but many start much earlier by jotting down ideas as part of the brainstorming phase. Keeping a running list of keywords can be an invaluable source of inspiration and motivation, as it is for Tina Bits. “I like doing a series of paintings united by a single theme, and I often make lists of keywords and topics I’d like to explore,” she tells us.

4. Limit Your Color Palette

For a harmonious illustration, apply a minimal color palette to your design. Image by Veris Studio.

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“When creating abstract illustrations and realistic ones, alike, try not to apply the full spectrum of colors you have in your palette,” Anna Russett of Veris Studio advises. “Instead, use a maximum of two to three key colors, accompanied by different shades derived from these colors. This will make the illustration look more harmonious, which is essential. At the end of the day, an abstract illustration is as much a design product as a painting, so everything in it should be as logical and consistent as possible.”

5. Sketch First…

When sketching, a watercolor pencil is easiest to edit out on the computer. Image by Maria Sem.

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“Usually, my process starts with creating sketches, whenever I feel inspired,” Swedish-based artist Maria Sem tells us. “I, then, return to my sketchbook when I’m looking for ideas for new illustrations.’

The art and charm of watercolor. Image by Maria Sem.

“At one point, I used graphite pencils for my sketches, but the process of retouching goes so much smoother and faster if you use a watercolor pencil or any other light-colored pencil. That way, you’ll avoid smudges that have to be edited out on the computer.”

6. …Or Don’t

Try painting without a pencil sketch. Image by Tina Bits.

“I’m a firm believer in practice makes perfect. Good composition, powerful color palettes, and confident outlines are absolutely achievable, if you put in a bit of work,” Tina Bits tells us. “But for me, it was painting without a pencil sketch that gave me an incredible sense of freedom. It forced me to trust my own hand and transform years of training into bright, fresh watercolors.”

7. Seek Inspiration in Nature

Painting by natural light makes your color scheme easier to handle. Image by Tina Bits.

“Natural elements — like the sea, pebbles, shadows, and tree branches — can be fantastic inspiration for abstract watercolor paintings,” Tina Bits adds. “I also try to paint only by natural light, as I find it makes any color scheme easier to handle.”

8. Choose Smooth Paper

Clean, smooth textures translate more evenly to digital. Image by Veris Studio.

“It’s important to choose the right paper for drawing,” Anna Russett tells us. “When I’m illustrating for stock, for instance, I tend to avoid using paper that is too rough or textured. In the digital version, I prefer the texture to be unobtrusive so that the watercolor looks light and transparent.”

While textured paper also works in some situations, clean, smooth paper makes it easier for customers to adapt your designs, and even add their own textures, if they wish.

9. Paint the Same Subject Multiple Times

Don’t be afraid to start over. Image by Karma3.

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The most mentioned tip among the artists we interviewed? Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and start over. “It does happen sometimes that I paint something and I’m immediately satisfied, but this is rare,” Ukrainian-based artist Lora Coshel, a.k.a. Karma3, admits.

“In most cases, you have to draw something over and over again, since the technique is such that you cannot go back and ‘fix’ anything. In the end, however, the works that make me proudest and happiest are the ones where the result was obtained with great difficulty. The more you paint, the better your technique becomes.”

10. Play with Shapes

For a nice contrast, mix warm and cold shades. Image by Karma3.

“In abstract painting, in particular, I like to use similar shapes, because then the compositions are harmonious,” Coshel explains. “For example, a composition with ovals of different shapes is likely to come together more nicely than one that uses a bunch of incongruous shapes. Also, when choosing colors for a composition, I tend to think it’s better to have both warm and cold shades for contrast.”

11. Perfect Each Element

Only submit quality work. Image by Veris Studio.

“I try to make my illustrations so good on paper that they won’t need much correction digitally,” Anna Russett says. “In other words, I’d rather there be fewer elements, but they are all perfect. I tend to paint watercolors in one layer so that the final product is light, clean, and transparent. Even one bad item can ruin an entire collection, so it’s worth taking the time to ensure the quality of everything you submit.”

12. Keep It Simple

The charm of watercolor lies in its simplicity. Image by Tina Bits.

“For me, abstract watercolors are the hardest to paint, as I tend to overcomplicate them, add too many details, and fill up all the space,” Tina Bits explains. “A great abstract watercolor should start with a stain of color — look at it, listen to it, and give it space to shine. I like to keep it very simple. Watercolor art looks particularly great as wall decor because it sets the mood, without stealing the spotlight.”

13. If Needed, Finesse It in Post

Finalize your painting in post. Image by Nadya Dobrynina.

Even perfect illustrations might need a little polishing during post-processing. “I prefer using physical materials — like grained paper, paints, and brushes — but after I’ve finished creating an image, I always finalize it on the computer,” Nadya Dobrynina says. “There, I’ll make subtle adjustments, like cleaning out the background, adding brightness and saturation, or finessing the colors.”

14. Invest in a Good Scanner

For quality artwork, invest in a scanner. Image by Tina Bits.

“Quality art supplies, if you can afford them, can be very inspiring, but I don’t see them as necessary,” Tina Bits says. “However, if you want your watercolor artwork to look good and sell well digitally, I recommend buying a good scanner. It’ll make you happier, and it’ll make your clients happier, too.”

15. Take Breaks

Sometimes taking a break encourages inspiration. Image by Karma3.

When you’re stuck, sometimes the best way forward is to step away from the page, then come back to it with fresh eyes.

“After I complete a major piece, I need some sort of break,” Lora Coshel says. “I usually use this time to relax, read, watch films, or do some kind of technical task on the computer. I also love going to flower markets because there are so many great ideas there, waiting to be discovered. As time passes, I begin to notice a lot of beauty around me, and I feel inspired to start again.”

16. Embrace Accidents

Experiment with various techniques. Image by Maria Sem.

“Watercolors can never be 100 percent controlled,” Maria Sem admits. “You just add water, and they create their own magic on the paper. It’s a material that poses a unique challenge because you can’t be sure what will happen in the end.’

“But, this is also my favorite part of painting with watercolors. In fact, one of my favorite techniques came to me by accident. I just painted some bright drops of color and added clean water. In the process, I created a ‘cloud’ effect that I still use today.”

Cover image by Maria Sem.

Uncover more secrets to illustrating as a career with these tips and insights:

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How to Shoot and Edit Videos Using Instagram Reels

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 14:31:47 GMT

It’s perfect timing for the launch of this 15-second video creator. Here’s how to use Instagram Reels.

Instagram just stepped up to the short-form video plate with their announcement of Instagram Reels. You can now shoot, edit, and post videos entirely on Instagram – 15-second videos that is. This new feature is essentially their answer to TikTok (and the timing is pretty perfect). With music, AR-based effects, and overlays, as well as a way to cut and compile your clips within the app, it’s an all-in-one tool for scrollable video.

This is the age of individual creators and small businesses producing and publishing content without complicated third party apps and software. Great video just keeps getting easier. Let’s break down all the features and look at how you can start making a video right this second.

What Instagram Reels Looks Like

On Reels, you have four tools to help you start working on your video. Here’s what each one does:

Audio – Search and choose any song you’d like to play over your video from the Instagram music library. Once you’ve chosen the right song you can scroll through the lyrics to find the perfect 15 seconds you want featured in your video. This is key to the reaction and music meme videos made popular on TikTok. If you’re a music-maker, you can also play your own original audio, which will make that music available to use for anyone watching your Reel.
Speed – This is exactly what it sounds like. You have the ability to record in slow motion or fast motion.
Effects – Like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram Stories, the effects available are overlays and AR-minded effects that manipulate the subjects and environments around you.
Timer – This feature is perfect for solo records who need to film themselves dancing, performing, or simply talking in front of the camera. You’re able to select how long you want to record, so hit the record button and get in position (you’ve got three seconds).

Using the Align Effect

Perhaps one of the coolest tools, the Align Effect takes the last frame from your previous clip and applies it as an overlay over your video. What’s the point of that? If you’re trying to do a trick – changing clothes, locations, people, this effect will allow you to position the camera in the right spot, making it seem like there was never a cut. This the tool people use to make those shoe and outfit change videos you see everywhere!

Recording and Editing

To record video simply press the record button, or hold it and release when you want to stop recording. This is pretty standard if you’ve ever shot video on your phone, Instagram Stories, or TikTok.

Once you’ve recorded your clip you can trim it down to be a specific length. Just hit the “Left Arrow” next to the record button and you’ll find your clip with a trim frame around it at the bottom of your screen. Once you’ve set it to play for the right amount of time, hit the Arrow button to apply the edit to your video.

Using Titles and Stickers

Just like TikTok and Instagram stories, you’re able to use titles and stickers, as well as draw on top of your footage. You can also add multiple titles and have them come on and off screen. Add your title, then at the bottom you’ll see an editing frame show up that will allow you to choose where and how long the title will pop up on screen.

For stickers, GIFs, and hand drawing, you’ll be locked you’ll be locked to the whole video. Just know that if you add one of these elements, it will stay on screen throughout the recording.

Where to Post Your Video

Instagram now has a “Reels” feed. This content in your Reels feeds is based on similar accounts that you follow as well as actual accounts you follow. When you post your video, it will fall into this same type of publication algorithm. For example, if your video is about skateboarding, it will probably show up in a skateboarder’s feed at some point. Here are the options you have for posting your new video:

Reels Feed – Posting to Reels will plug your reel in to the general feed. This is your best shot at being noticed as this is how content gets seen by people who aren’t your followers.
Your Feed – You can also publish the video to your feed, allowing your followers to see the video as they scroll through their feed like normal.
Your Stories – Posting to your Story is also a good idea to get it out there. There’s an opportunity for people to see it and share it. Users watching Instagram Stories are looking for this type of video content compared to the users scrolling through their feed looking at memes and photographs.
DM the video – You can also send the video directly to your friends. This is a good way to create personalized content meant for specific people.

Instagram Reels looks like its going to be an amazing tool for creators, small business owners, and marketers as it eliminates a good chunk of video production hassle.

Pick up even more pro video production tips with these articles:

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Shutterstock Partners with Sky Media to Empower Small Businesses

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 13:00:00 GMT

Shutterstock offered small businesses complimentary access to our library of images, footage, and music, empowering them to tell their unique stories.

At a time when small and medium-sized businesses need more support than ever, Shutterstock was thrilled to partner with Sky Media for the SME250 initiative. This a £2.5 million fund provides 250 UK businesses with free, highly targeted television advertising through AdSmart technology.

To do our part, Shutterstock offered the first 100 companies complimentary access to our library of images, footage, and music. Access empowered them to tell their unique stories and reach customers with engaging content. It couldn’t have come at a better time. Quarantine and lockdowns forced businesses of all sizes to rethink their approach to content creation because of remote teams, closed-down productions, and shrinking budgets.

As Sky Media explains it, the SME250 initiative intends to “reward the businesses that are demonstrating true resolve and ingenuity. Businesses of all types are adapting to the current climate, but can further thrive with the extra TV exposure. From local garden centers delivering flowers and materials for the first time, to yoga and dance studios keeping people fit with new online classes, the businesses that are selected to be part of the SME100 will be representative of the whole of the UK.”

The criteria to apply for the scheme meant most of the SMEs selected had never advertised on TV before. For these businesses, producing a TV-ready advert was a new, and potentially daunting, challenge. Therefore, Shutterstock’s offering of creative assets was an invaluable resource for successful ad creation.

The initiative’s positive impact wasn’t limited to the businesses that received funding. The SME250 campaign also benefited the local creative agencies that worked closely with participants to bring their message to life.

We’re happy to share that so far the SME250 has been a resounding success. In July, 100 thirty-second ads rolled out to an audience spending an increasing amount of time watching television. The selected businesses created the ads remotely and safely with seamless, high-quality Shutterstock assets. What’s more, each one showcases what we love most about stock. It puts high-production value content within reach for anyone with a story to tell. You don’t need a giant budget. You don’t need a fancy studio or exotic location. Actually, you don’t even need a camera. All you need is a vision.

Here are some of our favorite advertisements from the SME250.

Bonk & Co‘s spot uses cinematic footage and sound to spark the wonder of its stoves and fires.

field&flower makes their farm-to-table mission ring true with hand-picked footage.

AVIE sets the scene of its slow fashion revolution with global city and landscape shots.

Grain & Frame‘s custom tables come to life with smart music and a fast-paced cut.

Cover image by VasiliyBudarin.

The post Shutterstock Partners with Sky Media to Empower Small Businesses appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

How Creative Departments Have Spurred Innovation During Coronavirus

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 11:00:00 GMT

In this current world where we couldn’t be further apart, we also find ourselves working closer together. Discover how we stretched our imaginations and problem solving skills to find new ways of creating content that resonates with brands and consumers.

Recently, Oliver McAteer from Campaign US hosted “The New World of Creative Production,” a Campaign Connect panel discussion. He welcomed the participants, Flo Lau, Head of Creative at Shutterstock, Amy Carvajal, CCO at Code & Theory, and John Dorris, Head of Creative Production at TBWA/Chiat/Day, to a livestream discussion on the rapidly changing world of creative production in this unprecedented time of change in the creative community. Here we’re sharing key insights from these creative leaders about what they have learned, the new ways they have adapted, and the innovations they are predicting for the future.

Flo Lau – Head of Creative at Shutterstock

“At Shutterstock, we experienced lockdown and the needs of our clients in progressive waves.’

“At the beginning of lockdown we first saw a spike in COVID-19 content requests, which then moved on to work-from-home and deserted spaces. As the weeks moved into months, requests transitioned to cooking, mental health and health workers — the creative was reflecting what was going on in society by the moment.”

Lau and the team at Shutterstock also gained valuable product insights:

Clients are increasingly looking for user-generated content that feels authentic and current.
More brands realize that they can manipulate stock footage to make it their own.
Efficiency and speed are key to producing content now. Creative departments have to build resilience to keep moving forward quickly and match the needs of clients.

Amy Carvajal – CCO at Code & Theory

“Without our usual tool kits, creatives had to find new ways to produce content. Creatives had to do more with less, like reuse content from previous shoots, try to make it look more bespoke and different with photo manipulation. This spurred the realization that stock images, video and music are a resource for brands, and teams have been using it to be more innovative, in order to get the right tone, and a sense of humanity that brands need.”

As a result of these creative restraints, Carvajal and her team at Code & Theory also realized that:

Innovation in AR animations and filters on social media can enhance the authenticity of brands — as long as it doesn’t lose touch with humanity.
Producers and creatives are pushing and challenging each other to innovate and tap into new capabilities when creating content for brands.
The major creative industry has the opportunity to make an impact and help the world with messaging for the future.

John Dorris – Head of Creative Production at TBWA/Chiat/Day

“Production was initially reactive from a messaging perspective, and everyone was scrambling to quickly get out content, but didn’t know how they were going to do it. After brainstorming various options that might work in the short term, the team at TBWA/Chiat/Day utilized talent and directors in their own homes to put together raw, unfiltered messaging that was very of-the-moment.”

Dorris and his team at TBWA/Chiat/Day made a few other discoveries when they embarked on remote creative production:

New partnerships, collaborations and creative structures have emerged, for example collaborating over text and shooting footage at home.
Producers will be educating brands on how to use stock images and footage to capture the real moments to convey messaging in a genuinely ownable and unique way.

There is no doubt that the creative industry has experienced rapid change and expanded messaging needs during the coronavirus. But they have also been fed with new creative inspiration. As we move forward, the new norm of working remotely will challenge teams to find ways to create compelling and authentic content without a playbook. In turn this will hasten innovation and open avenues for a new wave of creative content for brands.
To hear the full conversation and expanded insights, view the video:

Refresh and diversify your branding message with these tips:

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CyberLink Integrates Shutterstock to Boost Editing Workflow in PowerDirector

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 10:00:00 GMT

As part of the new features launch for PowerDirector, CyberLink integrated Shutterstock API to expand users creativity with high-quality stock content

Effective videos can help businesses and content creators drive engagement and build audience loyalty. But creating captivating videos can be complicated and time consuming for video editors and non-designers alike.

CyberLink’s PowerDirector solves this problem by giving users the ability to create professional videos quickly with easy-to-use tools that don’t require a learning curve. The Shutterstock API integration further support’s CyberLink’s mission to simplify video creation by providing users with high-quality images, videos, and music tracks at their fingertips.

You can learn more about the integration and how to get started below.

Ready-to-use visuals

Image by Denis Belitsky

Through the integration, CyberLink offers hundreds of thousands of images and video clips that can be used immediately to create videos in PowerDirector.

With a large and diverse library of high-quality images and video clips, users can quickly find and insert the perfect stock visuals for their project without having to create original content from scratch. These visuals can be mixed in with existing assets you have on hand. Or you can create new projects from scratch using only stock assets.

A major barrier for video creation is a lack of dynamic visuals since production can be costly and time-consuming. But with Shutterstock visuals readily available, CyberLink eliminates this barrier while preserving your full creative freedom.

High-quality music tracks

Image by insta_photos

One of the most crucial elements of a video is its music track. After all, music sets the scene for videos and can make a difference in how its contents are perceived. For instance, the same video set against an energetic track versus a track with a slow tempo can take on distinctly different tones.

To help video editors create engaging videos with strong music tracks, PowerDirector provides in-platform access to Shutterstock’s extensive music library.

Beyond expanding music options for users, the integration ensures that users are accessing quality tracks that underwent rigorous reviews for technical execution and copyright clearance. This speeds up the editing process by eliminating the need to sift through poor quality tracks to find the perfect one for each project.

Fast in-platform search and licensing

Image by Zamurovic Photography

Shutterstock’s best-in-class search allows users to pinpoint the right image, video, or music with speed and accuracy. With a fast and simple keyword search, CyberLink users can surface the right creative content without stalling their editing workflow.

As soon as you find the perfect asset for your project, you can import it directly into your video. Plus, with Shutterstock’s content review process in place, you don’t have to worry about licensing clearances for commercial use.

How to access

Image by Kan bokeh

To get started, you can click on the Media Import button on the upper left hand side and select “Download from Shutterstock”. From here you can get started by clicking on either the video, photo, or music tab to browse stock assets for your project.

Once you find the right asset, click on the “Download button” and the selected asset will be imported into your project. From there, you can now drag and drop it anywhere on your project’s storyboard. You can see the full product demo and get started here.

PowerDirector’s industry leading editing platform combines powerful tools and effects with an intuitive interface that is accessible to both beginners and professionals alike. With the addition of professionally designed templates and Shutterstock’s extensive stock library, users can produce pro-grade videos right out of the box without even needing to pick up a camera.

Featured image by nnattalli

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What the Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights Looks Like Around the World

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Thirteen photojournalists from around the world share stories of inspiration and solace from everyday heroes on the frontlines of LGBTQ+ rights.

Despite significant strides over the last few decades, countries around the world remain sharply divided when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights and equality under the law. As of this writing, for instance, some sixty-eight countries still criminalize homosexuality. Only twenty-seven legalized same-sex marriage. Meanwhile, a mere nineteen allow trans people to serve openly in their military.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, LGBTQ+ communities have become especially vulnerable due to discrimination and access to heath care. But at the same time, activists around the globe continue to fight discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people, and the last year has ushered some significant milestones.

In May of 2019, Taiwan became the first Asian country to allow same-sex couples to marry. Northern Ireland also legalized same-sex marriage this January. And, even when the pandemic led to the cancellation of most in-person Pride events this summer, thousands of people came out to demonstrate (virtually and in the streets) in support of LGBTQ+ rights and the Black Lives Matter movement.

As a global community, we have a long way to go in ensuring the freedoms and protections of all citizens. But, in times of struggle and loss, we can find inspiration and solace in everyday heroes who are fighting for their rights. We spoke with thirteen photojournalists from around the world about some of those people and the stories they had to tell.

What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

Members of the LGBTQ+ community during the pride walk. Image by Sukhomoy Sen/PACIFIC PRES/SIPA/Shutterstock.

Sukhomoy Sen: The Kolkata Rainbow Pride Walk is organized by the Kolkata Rainbow Pride Festival annually. As a freelance photojournalist, my interest lies in covering multifaceted social, cultural, political, and religious activities, but this festival attracted me mainly because of the mental strength of the people involved in this movement, who often face discrimination and unequal protection at work, school, and in society in general. In some cases, they also regularly face harassment within their own families.

As this is known as the Rainbow Pride Movement, the community members present themselves as vibrant as a rainbow, throwing up all their sorrows and casting them aside. They are raising awareness and advocating for the fundamental right to equality within society. Their vibrant and colorful attire, artistic performances, and most of all, their love for beauty and acceptance inspired me.

With help from the Kolkata LGBTQ+ community, I was able to make contact with the person in this photograph, Tanmoy Mukherjee, who caught my attention with a combination of unique and traditional bridal attire and a vibrant splash of vermilion (a colored powder associated with love, marriage, and religion). It’s important to me to share some words from Tanmoy Mukherjee in addition to my own:

“Hello, I am Tanmoy Mukherjee (Tanoya Mukherjee). I am a dancer by profession and a traditional makeup artist by hobby. I love to do crossdressing as one of my hobbies and mix it up with my dancing. Since 2018, I have been out and proud.’

“It’s been a long journey and a terrible fight for me within my community over the last two years. I have overcome many problems and difficulties, and I still need to fight in my day-to-day life because my society does not accept me as I am. I pray that the next generation of LBGTQ+ people get the respect that I haven’t gotten from society.’

“I am blessed that I got such a good, supportive, and intellectual mother, who supports me during hard times — and maybe that’s the reason I have achieved so much! I love the way I am. I love mother nature, who made me like this, and I love myself. I love my PRIDE. This photo is from the Pride Walk in December of 2019. Looking back, I feel very proud, brave, courageous, and thankful for my lovely friends, beloved family, and respected community members.”

What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

Badanile Maci, a lesbian “sangoma” or traditional healer, is pictured at her healing room in the Sebokeng township, east of Johannesburg, South Africa. Image by KIM LUDBROOK/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

Kim Ludbrook: I read about Badanile Maci — a lesbian “sangoma” or traditional healer — in a local newspaper, and I immediately tracked her down and asked her for an interview. I am very interested in covering subcultures and often look for the non-mainstream stories. That aspect, coupled with the importance of LGBTQ+ rights globally, and especially in Africa, led me to her door. Also, being a yogi and shaman myself meant that I wanted to meet her on a personal level, to connect with and document her journey.

I have, over the twenty-five years of my career, photographed many sangomas in different situations, but the entire morning I was with Maci was a treat! She was so photogenic and happy to be photographed, and talked with such power and ease about her soul journey and that of being a lesbian healer/sangoma.

Maci’s job is to heal people via the traditions of the African culture, and it basically entails connecting with the ancestors, healing through the use of local herbs, doing divination, etc. What is very rare is that a sangoma is a lesbian, and this is the part of her life where she has really combated the stereotypes of township life where she lives. She is one of the many lesbian healers doing their amazing work in Johannesburg.

This moment happened outside her healing space, which is in a cottage in the back of her mother’s house in the township, as she simply started to pose for images without me having to prompt her. She was amazing to be around — very outgoing, beautiful, and proud of her lesbian/sangoma life. It was really beautiful and interesting for me because often, in the past, when I have photographed sangomas, they are very shy of cameras and the attention that it brings.

Just before lockdown here, I was due to do a followup story with her. She invited me to join in on a mass sangoma graduation ceremony near where she lives. I am hoping to see her again soon and see if she is still healing people during the pandemic. Africa, in general, including South Africa, has a long way to go before we see LGBTQ+ rights reach a level of acceptability, but Maci is one of the unsung heroines who is shining her light and living her life for all to see.

Learn more about Kim Ludbrook:

Website | Instagram | Twitter

What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

Andre, who uses the stage name Star Vasha, performs at the Fame Club during the 2018 soccer World Cup in Yekaterinburg, Russia. Image by Vadim Ghirda/AP/Shutterstock.

Vadim Ghirda: A reporter colleague of mine at the time, Nataliya Vasilyeva, visited this club, the Fame Club, while doing a preview story about the cities that were to host the World Cup matches in 2018. She shot some stills, and I found the atmosphere so fascinating that I decided I had to see and experience it in person while on assignment in Russia.

I was lucky to find a free day (or rather, a free night) from the sporting events, went there with a colleague from Argentina, the photographer Natacha Pisarenko, and spent a few wonderful hours in the company of these artists.

Russia does not enjoy a good reputation in the area of LGBTQ+ rights, unfortunately. I am very interested in all topics connected to human rights — this is one of the reasons I wanted to tell this story — but because I was in Russia for just a limited time, I can’t provide a truly informed analysis of LGBTQ+ rights and the situation there. I have to limit myself to describing what I personally experienced.

It was widely believed that the World Cup, itself, having global magnitude, led authorities to ease the pressure on the local LGBTQ+ community. Some were hoping, myself included, that a blend of cultures like the ones that you encounter at events like the World Cup might even help Russia’s conservatives, both regular people and representatives of the authorities, become more tolerant.

Coming from Romania, also a former communist country where the LGBTQ+ community situation is not as bad as in Russia but still far from what would be the norm in western Europe, the openness of the artists at the Fame Club was the main thing that stood out for me.

I would have expected that people who face all sorts of risks because of their sexual orientation, ranging from professional to physical safety, would hesitate to trust us at first, but I was amazed by the trust they put in us. We were given 100 percent unrestricted access, and we’d just met them for the first time. We were also able to take pictures backstage during the preparations for each of the performances in the show. I was also stunned by the sheer artistic quality of each of those performances.

I wish I had had the opportunity to spend more time at the Fame Club. We were there just for one night, and it was unforgettable. I remember thinking that maybe there is hope for the future, if people in that situation had not lost the gift of trust and were willing to open their hearts to someone they’d just met. I run the AP operation here in Bucharest, and after my visit to Russia, we published a full story on the drag stars. You can read and see it here.

I don’t know if or how things changed after the World Cup came to an end. I was very touched by the empathy the performers had for the intolerance of their society towards the LGBTQ+ community, while being very realistic about not being able to express themselves freely or wear the clothing they would want or kiss loved ones in public. There was no pointing of fingers. It felt very genuine and heartfelt — not just a diplomatic way of describing the situation to a journalist.

Learn more about Vadim Ghirda:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

Audrey Mbugua fights for the rights of transgender people in Kenya. The activist says she was bullied by her peers as a child because of her sexual orientation. Image by DAI KUROKAWA/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

Dai Kurokawa: Audrey Mbugua is a transgender woman and activist in Kenya. I took this picture immediately after a reporter and I arrived at her house to cover her story. She reminded me of a hip celebrity — proud, cool, and laid back. I could also tell that she was a very daring, brave, and strong person, with an undeniable charisma.

Audrey was already a known figure in Kenya when my reporter colleague decided to do a story on her. I think she trusted us because she was already used to the media, and she knew our reporter would be fair in telling her story. I think she trusted me as a photographer because I told her about my nationality — I’m Japanese — and explained that my culture and religion do not discriminate against people on the basis of gender identity. I told her Buddha is neither male nor female.

Kenyan society is a very conservative one overall, and just like other members of the LGBTQ+ community, Audrey suffers from discrimination. She has actively fought against that discrimination and stood up for her rights. In 2019, she went to court and successfully got her name changed, which is a huge accomplishment in Kenya.

The last time I spoke with Audrey was immediately after we published her story. She said she loved my photos of her showing her upper body, and I was happy that I was able to highlight her beauty. I haven’t stayed in touch since I’ve relocated to Japan, but every time I cover an LGBTQ-related story, I think of her. I really hope she is staying healthy and strong in a difficult time like this, as Kenya sees a sharp rise in a number of coronavirus infections.

Learn more about Dai Kurokawa:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

Two women prepare their bouquet prior to a group marriage of forty same-sex couples in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Image by Nelson Antoine/AP/Shutterstock.

Nelson Antoine: Throughout my career as a photojournalist, my favorite assignments have always been the ones where I’m given the opportunity to tell the stories and amplify the voices of people who face persecution, whether it’s because of their religion, because they are part of a minority, or because of their orientation.

I made this photo while covering a group marriage, organized just two months after Jair Bolsonaro was elected President of Brazil and one month before his swearing-in ceremony. It was a very symbolic moment, as the forty couples taking part in the ceremony decided to get married on this same date because they feared potential setbacks Bolsonaro’s administration might make regarding their right to marry.

I discovered this story when the NGO CASA 1 launched a crowdfunding campaign to organize the group marriage. They do great work providing support to LGBTQ+ people expelled from their homes by their families. I called my chief editor at The Associated Press about this story, and we decided to cover it.

During his twenty-nine years as a politician, Bolsonaro has made many homophobic, public statements during interviews and speeches, such as he “would be incapable of loving a homosexual son” and if he saw “two men kissing each other on the street,” he would “beat them up.” Despite this rhetoric, however, his government has not reversed the law that has made same-sex marriage legal in Brazil since 2013.

Brazil is a diverse country, and I find that the voices that promote tolerance and respect towards LGBTQ+ people ring out more loudly than the conservative ones, especially among the younger generations. One example is that the biggest Gay Pride parade on earth takes place in Sao Paulo. Bolsonaro does not have the support to make any changes to the same-sex marriage law, and I have faith that, as time progresses, we’ll see more respect and less violence toward LGBTQ+ people in Brazil.

Learn more about Nelson Antoine:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

A drag queen blows a kiss out of a convertible during the Midsumma festival pride march in St. Kilda. Image by Asanka Ratnayake/Shutterstock.

Asanka Ratnayake: The Midsumma festival is Melbourne’s only Pride march that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community. The annual march started in 1996, and today, it attracts over 50,000 people.

I choose to cover the event for two reasons. First, the Midsumma festival doesn’t get the same sort of attention as the internationally famous Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, so I felt it was important to showcase the Midsumma march via an international agency.

On top of that, this particular march was held at a pivotal moment in Australia’s history, when it came to laws pertaining to gay marriage. At the time of the Midsumma festival in January 2017, when I made this photo, same-sex marriage wasn’t legally recognized. But, later that same year, Australian citizens would participate in a compulsory postal vote — “The Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey.”

This march was a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, but it also had a political context with the impending same-sex marriage vote on the horizon. This context resulted in a number of members of Parliament attending to show their support, including the then-opposition leader of the Australian Parliament Bill Shorten.

Historically, Australia inherited anti-homosexuality laws, such as the Buggery Act of 1533, from the British Empire. Up until 1890, men conducting sexual activities together could face capital punishment. In the late 20th century, the punishments and public sentiment changed, but it was still considered too taboo to change from a legal standpoint.

It wasn’t until 1994 when sexual activity between consenting adults throughout Australia was legalized. It was a major milestone for LGBTQ+ rights. However, those who had been convicted for same-sex related charges still held their criminal records. This changed from 2013-2018, as states within Australia expunged these historical convictions.

In 2017, the postal vote pertaining to same-sex marriage ended with an overwhelming majority of over sixty-one percent voting in favor of same-sex marriage. However, it still had to pass through Parliament, which it eventually did. Australia then joined other countries by legalizing same-sex marriage on December 9th, 2017.

I have always loved covering parades like this and witnessing these moments of freedom within a community that faces discrimination. I derive great joy from seeing people being proud of who they are and celebrating it for all its beauty.

That sense of celebration is shared among the wider community at the parade. There truly is just a lot of love in the air, as cliché as that might sound. Everyone who attends the parade wants to be involved — get dressed up, be a bit cheeky, and have fun while promoting equal rights.

Learn more about Asanka Ratnayake:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

Taiwan gay rights activist Chi Chia-wei waves a rainbow flag as he joins to celebrate Pride month at the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei. Image by RITCHIE B TONGO/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

Ritchie Tongo: Chi Chia-wei is a prominent personality here in Taiwan and an advocate for the legalization of same-sex marriage. Taiwan is one of a few counties that was able to hold these Pride events this year, while others were canceled around the world due to the coronavirus.

Of course, there were a lot of uplifting moments that day, not only for the LGBTQ+ community but for humanity in general. When a group of people is willing to try and fight for what they believe is fair and right, they will eventually be able to turn the tides.

Taiwan is an example of that. The LGBTQ+ community can now express themselves, celebrate their rights, and marry, as recognized by the government of Taiwan. One moment that I won’t forget when I was covering this event is when an LGBTQ+ participant approached Chi and hugged and kissed him while he was waving that rainbow flag.

Learn more about Ritchie Tongo:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

The Trans Confluence, formed by a score of organizations that fight for the rights of transsexual people, held a rally at the Puerta del Sol, in Madrid, to demand that the government urgently process the Trans State Law. Image by Beatriz Duran Balda/Shutterstock.

Beatriz Durán Balda: I worked on a personal project called “El Muro Invisible” (“The Invisible Wall”), a documentary about trans people’s rights, especially in the workplace. Working on this project allowed me to see the lack of knowledge and awareness that still exists in our society, and all the prejudices that trans people still have to face in their everyday lives.

Since then, I have been in contact with people from the community. So, when I found out through my social networks that this demonstration from the Trans Confluence was going to take place, I decided to attend and document it.

People from all over Spain traveled all day to attend the rally in Madrid, facing forty-degree weather, in the middle of Puerta del Sol, making themselves heard and demanding the government process a Trans State Law.

Such a law would protect transgender people, who continually face cases of bullying and exclusion, through the depathologization of trans identities and the free self-determination of gender. In other words, it would guarantee that they were not considered sick people, and would not need psychiatric reports or two years of hormone treatment to see their identity legally recognized.

This law would guarantee that trans people can have the same rights as the rest of the citizenry. So far, there is no legislation in Spain that protects migrants or trans minors. The approval of a state law would mean that all trans people were treated the same way in all Spanish territories. It is the basis for ending bullying, assaults, and exclusion from work. It would be the beginning of a path to real equality.

This was the first Gay Pride Day in history without a street demonstration, due to sanitary measures to combat COVID-19. On one hand, we all had to be careful to observe the security measures, but on the other hand, we could see how people were ready to fight for their rights — they did not hesitate to go outside despite the current situation. Our goal as photojournalists is not to give people a voice — because they have voices of their own — but we can help by amplifying their voices if we help their message reach more people.

The demonstration proceeded with all the necessary social distancing measures due to COVID-19, so hugs and greetings were complicated among participants. After the rally, when people started to disperse, I saw these two demonstrators who had used their flags as protective barriers to give each other a hug.

It was a very emotional moment and I did not want to interrupt it, so I took the photo and kept walking. After all these months and strange times that we are living in, it was moving to see. Of course, it was just a hug, but now it means much more than before.

Learn more about Beatriz Durán Balda:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

Charlotte Story, a transgender woman from Macon, Ga., waves a transgender flag during a transgender rights march through the city’s Midtown district in Atlanta. The march was part of the annual Gay Pride Festival. Image by Robin Rayne/AP/Shutterstock.

Robin Rayne: I’ve covered Atlanta’s Gay Pride weekend for more than twenty-five years as a photojournalist for ZUMA Press. There have always been high emotions saturating the weekend, given that Atlanta is one of the most “gay-friendly” cities in the U.S., but also has a large conservative and evangelical population that opposes LGBTQ+ rights and same-sex marriage.

Unfortunately, anti-LGBTQ+ demonstrators who scream and taunt the crowds with hate-filled comments for hours are visible at every Pride. They say their presence is all about “love thy neighbor,” but their venomous signs and comments show nothing but contempt.

Covering the parade always makes for strong pictures, especially as marriage equality and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community have become national issues, in recent years. The current administration’s obsession with transgender individuals in the military, as well as health insurance and employment challenges, means there’s always a need for fresh images that illustrate the human struggle of those who don’t fit society’s views and expectations about gender identity.

This photograph was made during the Transgender Rights March in October 2019. There were hundreds of transgender, genderfluid, and non-binary individuals strolling through the district to increase public awareness of the challenges they face daily. The transgender issue is often misunderstood because of misinformation and fear. Journalism’s role is to help people better understand each other and create stronger, more enlightened communities. Photographs and stories have the power to change minds and opinions.

I met Charlotte Story that weekend. She is very open about her identity as a transgender woman. She lives in central Georgia, which is an even more conservative part of the state. To live as her authentic self takes a determination and courage, risking everything to find gender congruence and internal peace.

I’ve seen more teens and young adults in the trans pride march recently, as well as parents and friends marching with them to show their love and support. I think society is coming around to seeing that the human condition is widely diverse. What touched my heart was seeing several church groups attending the festival and actively encouraging and welcoming the LGBTQ+ community. They far out-numbered the more zealous and hate-filled street preachers.

That gave me hope for future generations. Having worked in ministry circles during my forty-year photojournalism career, I strongly believe churches need to be welcoming to everyone, regardless of who you are or who you love. Down here in Atlanta, “y’all” should mean “all.”

Learn more about Robin Rayne:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

LGBT activists and supporters attend a Kenyan court ruling on whether to decriminalize same-sex relationships in Nairobi, Kenya. Image by Brian Inganga/AP/Shutterstock.

Brian Inganga: As a freelance photojournalist, my work has focused on documenting corruption, poverty, social movements, and human rights. I took this picture after reading in a local newspaper about the court ruling on whether to decriminalize same-sex relationships that was scheduled to happen that day. I knew it could be a good story since, in Kenya, homosexuality is illegal and could be punishable by fourteen years of imprisonment.

On this day, February 22nd, 2019, the Kenya high court was to decide whether to scrap colonial laws that criminalize homosexuality. A large crowd made their way to the Milimani High Court in Nairobi, with hundreds of people, mostly members of the local LGBTQ+ community and their allies, queuing to get into the packed courtroom. I took this picture before the proceedings, as LGBTQ+ community members were excited to be heard by Kenyan courts.

After all the anticipation, the ruling was ultimately postponed. The judge apologized, saying, “You may not like the news I have today. We have worked hard to deliver a judgment, but it is not ready due to the challenges we are facing. We are also sitting on other benches, which have consumed our time, but we will endeavor to have a decision on another date.”

On May 24th, 2019, the High Court of Kenya refused an order to declare sections 162 and 165 unconstitutional. The state still does not recognize any relationships between persons of the same sex. Same-sex marriage has been banned under the Kenyan Constitution since 2010. There are no explicit protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Adoption is also prohibited to same-sex couples.

Learn more about Brian Inganga:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

Women kiss during the annual gay pride parade along Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The 24th gay pride parade titled this year’s parade: “For Democracy, Freedom, and Rights, Yesterday, Today, and Forever.” Image by Leo Correa/AP/Shutterstock.

Léo Corrêa: I took this photo during an assignment for The Associated Press, as these two artists paused to kiss during the warmup before the annual Gay Pride Parade along Copacabana beach.

One was dancing at ground level, as the other was performing on stilts. For me, this moment represents the true sense of affection that somehow permeates the entire parade. At the same time, it was an expression of love that underlined their power against prejudice and homophobia.

The parade has been taking place in Rio since 1995 as a tribute to and celebration of the Stonewall Riots of 1969 in New York. It symbolizes happiness, love, and strength, but most importantly it represents the fight for a more just and inclusive society which recognizes equal rights for the gay community.

It is important to note that Brazil, the country with one of the world’s largest Pride parades and home to the biggest carnival on the planet, is still considered one of the deadliest countries for the LGBTQ+ community. This year alone, eighty-nine people were killed according to Brazil’s National Association of Transvestites and Transsexuals (ANTRA), which reports on violence against the community.

I believe this picture is just a fraction of the reality in my country. It might be just a kiss — a single, beautiful moment — but I can only hope that it inspires all of us to make strides to create and live in a better, more equal society.

Learn more about Léo Corrêa:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

LGBT community members dressed in ornate jewelry and clothing while they carry the colorful flags under heavy rain during the Pride Parade to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Riots that took place in New York. Image by Avishek Das/SOPA Images/Shutterstock.

Avishek Das: Every year in June, the Pride march is organized here in Kolkata, and people lift their voices to speak out against gender discrimination and homophobia as well as to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York.

What made this day unforgettable was that even under heavy rain, every single person was dressed up in unique, colorful outfits, jewelry, and accessories, excited to carry the rainbow flag. I’m inspired by the fact that, even after all these decades and across all those miles, the people in Kolkata still remember that day in New York and organize a beautiful rally in the heart of the city.

There was a big development recently in terms of LGBTQ+ rights in India. On September 6th, 2018, mere months before this parade in June of 2019, the Supreme Court of India ruled that Section 377 — which criminalized homosexual sex — was unconstitutional. The court ruled that it had infringed on the fundamental rights to intimacy and identity, and thus, legalized homosexuality in India.

Learn more about Avishek Das:

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What’s the Story Behind this Photo?

Yuki Altamirano, alias “Janine Tugonan,” checks his hair inside a dressing room during the Miss Gay Chararat 2019, a gay beauty contest in Makati, south of Manila, Philippines. Image by MARK R CRISTINO/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

Mark Cristino: I encountered this beauty contest by happenstance in our village. I was just out to buy food when I saw a stage and some sound systems. I walked around and talked to one of the officials, and I asked if I could come back and shoot. I went back with my cameras and started shooting and talking to the contestants.

I had never shot anything like this. I had covered LGBTQ+ rallies and pride marches but not a beauty pageant. With the access given, I wanted to see the whole process, from preparing for the contest to the crowd reactions and their personal stories.

Yuki and his friend Yuna, who was also a contestant, were the first people I bumped into when I went backstage. If I remember correctly, it was the first time for the both of them to enter a contest, and they were both under eighteen. This was an open contest, so it was a mix of veterans and newbies from different cities.

The LGBTQ+ community has always been active here in the Philippines. The rights they are really fighting for now is same-sex marriage and the passage of an anti-discrimination bill. I was happy to see that our local village was helping and promoting awareness for the LGBTQ+ community.

Learn more about Mark Cristino:

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Cover image by Avishek Das/SOPA Images/Shutterstock.

Discover more tips for capturing respectful and authentic LGBTQ+ content here:

The post What the Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights Looks Like Around the World appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

How Photographers Can Better Represent Asexuality in Images

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 11:00:00 GMT

Misrepresenting asexuality in images is common. So, let’s dispel with the folklore and discuss how photographers should properly represent asexuality.

This article has been approved by Prism, a Shutterstock ERG (Employee Resource Group) committed to creating a supportive, diverse, and inclusive company culture for LGBTQ+ people globally.

As we continue to have conversations about gender identity and sexuality, it’s noticeable how brands and businesses are striving to make their marketing more inclusive. Gender and sexual representation have become more visual than ever. Images of transgender people, once mostly depicted as drag queens, are now more visually represented in everyday life. We’re moving past the idea that lesbians must be tomboys. Instead, we’re showcasing people in their everyday life.

However, there are aspects that need more attention and work. And, one of those key areas of LGBTQ+ representation is representing asexuality.

Asexuality is very much real and deserves photographs that accurately represent this sexuality. Image by Shawn Goldberg.

Asexuality has long been deemed “unreal.” To this day, many people stereotype folks who identify as asexual as too picky, too conservative, or just haven’t met the right person yet. As these toxic thoughts and grave misunderstandings continue to blossom, we also continue to struggle to depict asexuality in images — something quite important in a fairly visual world.

What is Asexuality?

Perhaps the best way to explain asexuality is the lack of sexual attraction. When someone identifies as asexual, it means this person doesn’t experience sexual attraction towards other people. However, this doesn’t mean there’s a lack of connection.

This design features the asexual colors and flag. Image by Grrrenadine.

An asexual person can still very much develop connections with others, including romantic connections. This is where we all need to remind ourselves that there’s a line between romance and sex. And, when it comes to showcasing asexuality in the world of photography, capitalizing on other human connections (such as romance) is a great approach rather than overt sexualization, which is what often happens in the world of LGBTQ+ photography.

Asexuality and Modeling are Two Different Things

As unfortunate as it is, sex typically sells in fashion and modeling. And, as photographers work on capturing images of their models, among the common lines include: “be more feminine” or “can you butch it up, please?” or “look into the camera like it’s your boyfriend.”

This may not sound like a big deal, but as gender capitalist Rain Dove puts it, “Don’t they know that sweat pants, a forward demeanor, and a furrow bushy brow IS feminine? Don’t they know that gliding across the room, soft skin, and pastel colors ARE butch?” And, like Rain Dove, when adhering to these requests, many asexual folks feel like they need to support thoughts and perceptions that aren’t true to them.

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“Mens” vs “Women’s” club attire. I recently wasn’t allowed into a club because they said I wasn’t dressed appropriately. I was in shorts + a tanktop and I didn’t have the 10£ cover charge. A “femme” person walked by in minishorts with a midrif showing tank top & was quickly let in for free. It dawned on me that they thought I was “male” so I showed them my ID which says “female” on it just to see what they said. Needless to say they were flabbergasted.I don’t identify as either- but it was an interesting dialogue. In the end they still refused to let me in. They said “it’s a different situation because as a female my fashion sense was off”. This lead me to doing some research. A study in the UK + USA showed that dresscode based “clubs” required “men” to wear things that cover knees, shoulders + stomaches. Close toed shoes + no hats. For “women” there often was no written dresscode aside from requesting no hats + no large logos. In dresscode based clubs there was a request for “men” to pay an entry free while “women” there was almost never a fee. While it may seem good for “women” that they get free entry and no written restrictions on their attire- it’s actually quite the opposite. It creates a contribution to the idea that “women” are up for sale and that’s what the “men” are paying for at the door- access to “women”. That “free entry” and freedom to wear whatever really is more like consolation prize for being used as live bait to lure in “men”. Why lure in “men”? Because studies show that many “men” in general have more money and people have been taught that “men” will/should spend their money more frivolously when it comes to potential sexual prospects. Leading to an advertising scheme that exploits “women’s” bodies and also grooms “men”. So the whole system actually is quite sexist, antiquated, and supportive of toxic ideologies of entitlement to people’s bodies or the sexualizing of people’s bodies. I know it’s nice to get a break and have something “Free”- but this isn’t it. Challenge the system. Ask why. Don’t not let them use us. Do not support inequality. #genderqueer #genderfluid #nomeansno #womenempowerment #lgbtq #grsm @kelsey_ellison

A post shared by Rain Dove (@raindovemodel) on Aug 7, 2019 at 9:19am PDT

Rain Dove is an activist and a gender-nonconforming model who walks in both men’s and women’s runways. While they don’t identify as asexual, they’ve seen how sexuality and eroticism played roles in modeling. For Dove, an image becomes “more acceptable” if model has the freedom to express themself honestly. However, this, as Dove says, “means making it clear that regardless of the level of exposure a model may want to agree to, the model will still have a job.”

Comfort and Freedom of Expression Is Important

Photographer Lexy Potts is also all about freedom of expression. “When you look at the subject’s eyes in an image, you can tell whether they feel comfortable or not. This isn’t something you can just Photoshop,” she shares.

Potts specializes in queer photography, covering events, studio shoots, and performances. In her line of work, comfort is vital. “If we want to use the example of trans people, not every trans woman is hyper femme. Many may actually feel uncomfortable being in something such as a big, pink, frilly dress. That’s because everyone has their own tastes, personality, and comfort zones,” says Potts. For asexual people, the resounding “sex sells” can be very uncomfortable, if not frustrating.

For asexual people, the resounding “sex sells” can be uncomfortable. Image by Nadia Snopek.

Photographers Play an Important Role in Visualizing Asexuality

It’s quite ironic how the fashion and modeling industries put so much pressure on models and how they should look, even before makeup. But, it seems there’s not enough pressure on photographers to make sure the models in their images are comfortable, and that their beliefs and future opportunities aren’t compromised.

It’s the photographer’s job to ensure an asexual model is comfortable on set. Image by finwal89.

Potts shares how she’s seen many photographers ignore their role and responsibility “because our culture finds anything that has sexual undertones is good,” adding that having a sexualized subject doesn’t mean “the image was well taken … Confidence can be seen as sexy, but confidence is about the model feeling comfortable in their own skin. Confidence doesn’t mean a subject has to be sexual. This is what many photographers ignore.”

When photographers ignore this responsibility it affects the model, but it also impacts the greater public. See, we don’t have to read an entire book to fully understand something — seeing a photo of it gives us a good idea what it’s about. We grasp onto photos and the familiar aspects we see in it. When asexual people are misrepresented in magazine covers, ads, and billboards, this becomes a huge problem and it’s a problem we’re having now.

“If someone’s only experience in meeting or seeing an image of a person who is asexual is an image that is pushed to be sexualized, to the point the photographer creates dysphoria for the subject, the viewer will have the impression all asexual people are always feeling unease and not confident,” explains Potts.

Fashion Politics and Its New Face

Perhaps it’s a good thing that the model and fashion industries are now shifting. As traditional media dwindles down, society continues to explore the power they have. Now, “likes,” “follows,” and “shares” decide what and who is in or out. Now, people are demanding compassion, emotion, and connection before they click the buy button.

This, as Dove explains, has put the fashion industry in a “unique space,” adding that “as fashion brands try to figure out the appropriate balance between revolutionizing, caring, and selling products, it’s been a bumpy ride for many marginalized community members.”

While we’re now seeing changes and improvement, some habits are just hard to break.

There’s a difference between selling confidence and selling sexuality. Image by Rido.

“I’ve experienced a lot of unsavory adventures regarding hypersexualization,” shares Dove, adding that many designers seem to be fascinated with the fact that they have a “societally masc face, but also DD breasts.” Dove also noted that “showing them off in photos and emphasizing that curve in my body, while wearing ‘menswear,’ is an exhausted fetish.”

How to Shoot Better Images that Represent Asexuality

For starters, learn that sexuality and modeling are two different things. Remember that while showcasing the brand is important, it’s also important to pay attention to your model and whether or not they’re still comfortable with the shoot.

Potts shares that “talking about things you enjoy brings comfort, originality, and personality into a shoot,” encouraging photographers to “take the time to get to know someone so you know how they should be captured in a photograph … When someone who is asexual can feel comfortable while photographed, the image alone can spread positive representation instead of separation, as well as prove you can look confident and proud of how you identify, without sexual undertones needing to be a theme.”

Showing confident, positive relationships is possible without suggesting sex. Image by AlessandroBiascioli.

Let’s also note that shooting better has a lot to do with putting in the effort to add important pieces to the puzzle. It’s not just about avoiding misrepresentation of your models. It’s also about doing the work to make sure everyone, including asexuals, have a space in this field.

Consider shooting asexual and aromantic people in “positive relationships,” as Potts suggests. Additionally Potts recommends portraying “more positive representation to prove you can find relationships and that relationships come in all shapes and forms, and have value that doesn’t have to involve sexual and romantic elements.”

Sparking Change

As Rain Dove puts it: “WE are our own Vogue.” And they’re right. Today we have the power to demand better ads, better campaigns, and for brands, businesses, and agencies to do better in terms of representation. When we refuse to click on the buy button or refuse to share the post because this certain brand failed to showcase something we strongly believe in and support, they will feel it. Brands will notice that impact and recognize the power of consumers.

“In a world of social media, we suddenly have a power stronger than the tongue of Anna Wintour. When we raise someone up, it’s up to a brand to receive them,” says Dove.

For more on diversity-focused topics, check out these articles:

Top image by Daria Ermolina.

The post How Photographers Can Better Represent Asexuality in Images appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

9 Athletes to Watch out for in Tokyo’s 2021 Olympics

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Despite the uncertainty wrought by the pandemic, athletes around the globe are training at home and dreaming of Tokyo. Here are just a few to look out for.

Next summer, the Olympics will head to Tokyo for the second time, following the 1964 Games, in an unprecedented event in sporting history. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Tokyo 2020 will now take place from July 23rd through August 8th, 2021.

Of course, that’s only one way in which these Olympics could prove historic. The legendary American swimmer Katie Ledecky and gymnast Simone Biles are among several athletes set to break barriers and records. Meanwhile, new events like skateboarding, sport climbing, karate, and surfing promise to attract a younger crowd around the globe.

The Games are set to take place across more than forty venues, including the Heritage Zone (based on infrastructure used in 1964) and the new Tokyo Bay Zone. Despite the uncertainty wrought by the pandemic, athletes around the globe are training at home, following social distancing regulations, and dreaming of Tokyo. Here are just a few to look out for when the time comes.

1. Sky Brown, Skateboarding (Great Britain)

Eleven-year-old skateboard prodigy, Sky Brown, signed her first professional contract at the age of seven and is hotly tipped to qualify for Tokyo 2020 as a member of Team GB, a feat that would make her one of the UK’s youngest ever Olympians. Image by Associated Newspapers Ltd/Shutterstock.

If she competes in Tokyo 2021, this eleven-year-old skateboarding prodigy will become Britain’s youngest summer Olympian in history. “A lot of people are going to watch it and I get to show that if this little girl can do it, you can do it too,” she told the BBC last year, in-between practicing her two passions — skateboarding and surfing.

Sky Brown skateboarding at Graystone Action Sports in Salford, UK. Image by Associated Newspapers Ltd/Shutterstock.

Brown suffered a terrible fall this spring, fracturing her skull and breaking bones in her hand. However she’s determined to heal and come back stronger than ever. As her father later told the BBC, her entire medical team was shocked by her positive spirit. “This will not stop me,” she said on Instagram. “I am going for gold in Tokyo 2021. I’m going to push boundaries for girls, with my skating and surfing.”

Sky Brown makes a daring move while skateboarding at Graystone Action Sports. Image by Associated Newspapers Ltd/Shutterstock.

2. Morgan Hurd, Gymnastics (USA)

Morgan Hurd demonstrating her ability and grace at the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships, Doha, Qatar. Image by Aflo/Shutterstock.

This 2017 World all-around champion has been a gymnast since the age of three. She’s been dreaming of this moment her whole life.

“I just always imagined myself being announced for the Olympic team,” she told the Olympic Channel earlier this year. “Before I go to sleep, that’s like almost all I can think about, a lot of the time.”

Gymnast Morgan Hurd competes during the women’s all-around competition at the American Cup, held in Milwaukee, WI. Hurd won the championship. Image by Melissa J Perenson/CSM/Shutterstock.

If she is announced, Hurd will join the remarkable Simone Biles on a team that’s likely to make Olympic history in Tokyo. “She definitely pushes us to be better, but she also helps bring out the fun side of gymnastics,” Hurd told Sports Illustrated about working with Biles. “I can sometimes be too serious, and she helps us all loosen up.”

Simone Biles (left) and Morgan Hurd (right) at the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Doha, Qatar. Image by Aflo/Shutterstock.

3. Janja Garnbret, Sport Climbing (Slovenia)

Janja Garnbret competes in the women’s final at the International Federation of Sport Climbing World Championships in Tokyo. Image by Jae C Hong/AP/Shutterstock.

This Slovenian sport climber dominated the sport for the last few years. Garnbret made headlines last year after winning all six bouldering events at the World Cup. In 2021, she’s expected to make history once again with the sport’s Olympic debut in Tokyo.

Janja Garnbret competes during the women’s combined bouldering final at the International Federation of Sport Climbing World Championships, in Tokyo. Image by Jae C Hong/AP/Shutterstock.

Even before becoming a global phenomenon, Garnbret had a passion for climbing. As a child, she climbed everything from trees to cabinets. As her goals reach new heights, she remains focused and devoted to the sport. “I climb because climbing is a moment where I fall in love with life,” she said recently. “When I am on the wall, nothing else matters.”

Janja Garnbret jumps after reaching the top at the women’s bouldering final at the IFSC Climbing World Championships in Hachioji, Tokyo. Garnbret won the women’s bouldering event. Image by FRANCK ROBICHON/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

4. Naomi Osaka, Tennis (Japan)

Naomi Osaka celebrates victory after her women’s singles second round match at the 2020 Australian Open. Image by James Gourley/BPI/Shutterstock.

Fresh off her back-to-back Grand Slams at the U.S. Open (2018) and Australian Open (2019), this tennis champion will play for Japan, where she was born, for Tokyo 2021. “I think there’s no other place that I’d rather play my first Olympics,” she told NHK in October.

Naomi Osaka playing for the Spain vs. Japan Fed Cup at the La Manga Club, in Cartagena, Spain. Image by AFP7/Shutterstock.

Osaka made history earlier this year by protesting in Minneapolis following the murder of George Floyd and speaking out about racism in both the United States and Japan. As one of the biggest stars of this Olympic season, her words mark a global moment of change and unity. “I love the thought of a biracial girl in a classroom in Japan glowing with pride when I win a Grand Slam,” she wrote for Esquire.

Naomi Osaka reacts as she plays against Petra Kvitova, of the Czech Republic, during their WTA Finals Tennis Tournament in Shenzhen, China’s Guangdong province. Image by Andy Wong/AP/Shutterstock.

5. Noah Lyles, Athletics (USA)

Noah Lyles celebrates winning the 200m in the Monaco IAAF Diamond League Athletics in Stade Louis II, Monaco. Image by Nsjsport/Shutterstock.

Known for his patterned socks, love of painting, and the “ICON” tattoo across his rib cage, this sprinter and current world 200m champion has his sights set on the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m titles. With an open space left by the recently retired Usain Bolt, Lyles has stepped up to become one of the biggest names in the sport, not only because of his breathtaking speed but also because of his fun-loving personality.

Noah Lyles is on his way to win the men’s 200m final at the IAAF World Athletics Championships 2019, at the Khalifa Stadium in Doha, Qatar. Image by VALDRIN XHEMAJ/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

Noah Lyles celebrates winning the gold medal in the men’s 200m final, at the World Athletics Championships in Doha, Qatar. Image by Nariman El-Mofty/AP/Shutterstock.

“Too many people get caught up in not having fun when they run,” he told The Washington Post last year. For him, it’s that sense of joy that lies at the heart of the sport, and he’s never forgotten it. Watching him in Tokyo will be worth it for the athletics, but also for the performance and energy he brings to the field.

Noah Lyles celebrates after winning the men’s 200m race at the Memorial Van Damme IAAF Diamond League international athletics meeting in Brussels, Belgium. Image by OLIVIER HOSLET/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

6. Nyjah Huston, Skateboarding (USA)

Nyjah Huston in action during the “street” category of the World Skateboarding Championships at the Anhembi Parl, in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Image by Sebastiao Moreira/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

This American street-skater, who happens to be the highest paid skater in the world, is set to make his sport’s Olympic debut one for the ages. He’s excited for skating to finally get its turn on the world’s stage, especially since it’s an accessible sport beloved by so many kids around the world.

Nyjah Huston, the highest paid skateboarder in the world, performs alongside Leticia Bufoni BRA Professional street skateboarder, for an exhibition in the Urban Park. Image by Simon Bruty /Shutterstock.

“Every day I’m inside, I swear I’m thinking about getting to Tokyo in 2021 and putting on those Team USA Nike jerseys,” he wrote for The Players’ Tribune in the spring. “I hope that we do right by our fans, by the people who helped get the sport to this point. And, I also hope there’s a little boy or girl watching at the park, or on TV, when the time comes.”

7. Teddy Riner, Judo (France)

Teddy Riner at the Judo World Championships in Budapest, Hungary. Image by Tibor Illyes/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

This gold medalist (2012 and 2016) and ten-time world champion discovered judo at age five. Riner was immediately drawn to the spirit and beauty of the sport. Now, his eyes are set on bringing home his third Olympic heavyweight judo gold medal, something no one has done before.

Teddy Riner (right) in action with Richard Sipocz of Hungary (left) during the +100 kg Men’s Round 1, during the Paris Grand Slam judo tournament, in Paris. Image by CHRISTOPHE PETIT TESSON/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

Riner’s stunning ten-year winning streak might have come to an end earlier this year, following 154 consecutive victories, but he’s just about as close to invincible as you can get — and Tokyo marks an important moment in both the history of the sport and his career.

“I remember when I was younger, I used to come here to face the best judokas,” he told the Olympic Channel last year. “Today, I am amongst the best and I know that I am a marked man and that other judokas want to take my place.” In recent months, he’s been training at home, gearing up for a fight to remember come 2021.

8. Stephanie Gilmore, Surfing (Australia)

Stephanie Gilmore (former world champion) at the World Surfing Championship at Praia Super Tubos, in Peniche, Portugal. Image by CARLOS BARROSO/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

This seven-time world champion surfer will make Olympic history in Tokyo, something she’s dreamed of since watching the Australian sprinter Cathy Freeman take home the gold in 2000. Now, with surfing officially on the schedule, she’s ready for her debut.

“I knew when I fell in love with surfing, at 12, I wouldn’t have a chance at the Olympics, which kind of crushed me,” she told Rolling Stone Australia earlier this year. “But it’s finally happening.”

Stephanie Gilmore in action during the women’s finals of the Corona Bali Protected surfing event, as part of the 2019 World Surf League in Keramas, Bali, Indonesia. Image by MADE NAGI/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

As a feminist and advocate for women in sports, Gilmore has helped bring about a sea of change in pay equality within surfing, making her an inspiration to generations of young athletes. When she hits the beaches in Chiba next year, she’ll have her eye on the gold. “I don’t wear too much jewelry, but that’d be a nice necklace to have,” she told POPSUGAR this winter.

Stephanie Gilmore at the World Surfing Championship, that takes place at Praia Super Tubos, in Peniche, Portugal. Image by CARLOS BARROSO/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

9. Eliud Kipchoge, Athletics (Kenya)

Eliud Kipchoge is hugged by his wife Grace Sugutt after he breaks the historic two hour barrier for a marathon. Image by Jed Leicester for The INEOS 1:59 Challenge/Shutterstock.

In 2019, this Kenyan runner became the first man to run a sub-two hour marathon in Vienna, stopping traffic at home in Nairobi and sparking celebrations around the world. In Tokyo, he’ll have the opportunity to defend his title. If he does, he’ll be the third person in history to win the Olympic marathon twice.

Eliud Kipchoge (center) poses with his gold medal on the podium after winning the men’s marathon race of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Athletics Track and Field Events, at the Sambodromo in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. Image by Sergei Ilnitsky/EPA/Shutterstock.

Kipchoge recently spoke about the healing power of sports, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. Of course, he’s disappointed to wait another year, but he’s planning to come back stronger than ever.

Eliud Kipchoge crosses the finish line to win the men’s marathon at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Image by Petr David Josek/AP/Shutterstock.

“Marathons are like life, we have flat courses, downhill, and hilly courses,” he said. “Now we are on a hilly course, this is the hardest of times. And like in a marathon, that’s when you are struggling to go up the hill.”

In the meantime, he’s been making a positive difference, working with the government to help distribute food to athletes impacted by COVID 19-related event cancellations.

Cover image by Aflo/Shutterstock.

Discover more celebrity news and sports history with these photo tours through the Shutterstock archives.

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Ways to Use 3D Mockups and Renders to Market Your Artwork Online

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Presenting your creative work as realistic 3D images can take your online marketing up a level, creating an immersive experience for potential customers.

Luckily, you don’t have to be a whiz at CAD (computer-aided design) to create professional-looking renders and mockups. Here, discover simple tips for creating effective 3D images of your photography and illustration prints, logos, packaging designs, apps, and other products using photo-editing software.

We’ll look at how you can use 3D images to market your work online, and the styles of images you can use to give your renders a contemporary look.

Using 3D Mockups and Renders (and the Difference Between the Two)

Mockups and renders bridge the gap between a digital or conceptual design and the final manufactured product. This is particularly useful for client showcases, to secure the go-ahead or funding for manufacturing a product, or for presenting images on an online store when it may not be possible to show the product in a real-life context.

A render scene of stationery products. Image by contributor 3DJustincase.

Most creatives will benefit from using mockups, especially if you’re wanting to market your work or products online.

For example, a packaging designer might use a render to demonstrate how a packaging concept will function and look. A fashion designer might want to use a T-shirt mockup to test how a printed design will appear before committing to a print run.

What Are Mockups?

Mockups are CAD-generated images, Photoshop actions, or 2D photo files that are edited to show a product in the image. An illustrator might want to use a mockup to present an image as a print in the context of an interior setting, for example.

What Are Renders?

Renders are images that have been generated using 3D CAD software, such as Rhino, Fusion 360, or Sketchup. The designer creates a 3D version of their design in the program and applies material textures, lighting, and shadowing to the object to create a realistic-looking render. The designer can then save this render as a flat image, such as a JPEG or PNG.

A 3D rendered scene. Image by contributor Krit Suppaudom.

Designers working in 3D disciplines, such as product, furniture, and interior design, will already be familiar with 3D CAD software. However, graphic designers, photographers, and illustrators usually only use 2D programs to create or edit their work. Regardless, if you have access to Photoshop and some editable 3D images on hand, you can quickly create your own renders and mockups that look realistic and professional.

Below, discover ideas for how to market your creative work online using renders and mockups. Whether you want to present your prints beautifully on an online store or create more interesting backdrops for clothing or products, there’s a mockup style to suit every purpose.

Create Mockups of Prints and Artwork

If you’re an illustrator, photographer, or artist, featuring mockups of your images on your website, or on online stores like Etsy, can help customers to envision how your artwork would look in their homes. Mockups of prints can also give a sense of scale, allowing you to communicate a range of print sizes and options to customers more effectively.

Mockups of 2D products, such as art prints or photos, are relatively easy to create. All you need is a photo of the room and frame to drop the artwork into, and access to Photoshop to edit the mockup.

A stylish mockup of a photo print. Image by contributor mtlapcevic.

There’s no need to create a setting for a photoshoot yourself when you can use photos already prepared for this purpose. You can also situate your artwork in a particularly stylish context, with trending interior styles and furniture.

I created these example mockups using images from the Shutterstock library. First, open the photo in Adobe Photoshop, and open the print image onto a new layer above. Apply a Multiply blending mode to the print to integrate it seamlessly into the scene. Next, add an Inner Shadow from the Effects panel to give the impression that the print is sitting within the frame.

A mockup of an art print in an interior setting. Image by contributor jafara.

Mockups of prints within interiors look fantastic and are particularly effective as marketing imagery. Simpler mockups, that feature a stand-alone frame, are also useful as product images for online stores. Opt for a simple, pared-back white or black palette. And, if you offer your print in different sizes, choose a mockup image that features these proportions.

Image by contributor jafara.

Mockup of a poster frame with black background. Image by contributor mtlapcevic.

Edit Product Renders for Packaging and Other 3D Products

Flat prints are super easy to integrate into mockup images. However, 3D items such as packaging, cosmetics, clothing, and cushions require a slightly different approach.

A render scene of stationery products. Image by contributor 3DJustincase.

You can find Photoshop actions online for creating realistic renders of 3D products. These actions allow you to drop flat artwork into a smart object layer in the PSD file. The action then generates the render, which you can save as a JPEG or PNG, ready to use on your website.

How to Do a 3D Logo Mockup on Objects Like Coffee Mugs and Signs

Render actions can produce impressive results. They can also be expensive and tricky to use, if you’re not familiar with Photoshop actions. An alternative is to graft a flat image onto an existing render image of a blank product, using the Edit > Transform > Distort and Transform > Warp functions in Photoshop to adjust the image to fit.

An example of a branding and packaging presentation with this cosmetic bottle render. Image by contributor 3DJustincase.

The example above uses an existing render image of a cosmetic bottle. I added the label design to the image in Photoshop, using the Transform options in the Edit menu to adjust the positioning and scale of the label.

It’s also quick and easy to edit vector images of blank products, if you have Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape. Use them to quickly place your own designs on T-shirts, coffee cups, boxes, and book covers. Vector renders tend to look less photo-realistic than raster renders, but they have their own charm. You might find that an illustrated style suits your marketing approach better.

Image by contributor 3DJustincase.

Place your brand design on these charming vector renders. Image by contributor snoopy63.

Create Render Scenes for Furniture, Clothing, and People

Architects and interior designers often integrate people into rendered images, giving clients a sense of what buildings and interior spaces will look like once built and populated.

Architects integrate people into their design to create a sense of movement, breathing life into a scene. Image from contributor ImageFlow.

Integrating people into existing “scene” images can be a useful marketing technique for other creative disciplines as well, such as fashion design and product design.

How Shadow Overlays Can Breathe Life into Ordinary Mockups and Designs

Fashion designers can add more interesting backdrops to lookbooks and studio shots using scene renders, helping to give clothing designs an editorial style. Product and furniture designers can enhance the design and branding of objects by integrating them into scenes, such as kitchen products in a domestic setting or chairs in a stylish living room context.

When creating your own render scenes, look for images that suit the scale of your product to improve realism. Full-length shots of models will suit the scale of a room. Meanwhile, place smaller products or packaged items on table surfaces or podiums.

Full-length shots of your model can exhibit the size of a room. Image by contributor musicman.

In the example above, a studio shot of a model has been grafted onto a 3D-rendered scene. Then, I enhanced it with subtle shadowing and highlights in Photoshop, helping to give the clothing a magazine-worthy look and style.

Look at these unique scene renders that you can embellish with your own images of products or people:

Image by contributor wacomka.

Image by contributor Zastolskiy Victor.

Add your own product designs to these 3D renders. Image by contributor LEKSTOCK 3D.

Use Mockups to Market Website and App Designs

Even digital designs can benefit from the realism of a mockup or render. For website and app designers, mockups of their online layouts on digital devices, such as mobiles, tablets, and computers, can professionalize the look of designs for client pitches or portfolios.

Professionalize your look by adding mockups of your online layouts to your digital devices. Image by contributor MPFphotography.

Mockups of app designs in use on mobiles can help to enhance the UX narrative of a design. Meanwhile, home page layouts are beautified by placing them into a stylish office setting.

Give your marketing communications a refined edge. Image by contributor Kaspars Grinvalds.

For designers who specialize in digital, non-physical services and products, mockups can be invaluable for giving your marketing communications a sophisticated and slick edge. They also help you stand out in a sea of web designers.

Look for mockup images that you can easily adapt with screenshots of your site designs. Or, track down images that show users engaging with a website or app to help tell the client a compelling story about your design.

Image by contributor Customdesigner.

Incorporate screen shots of your site designs. Image by contributor Berezovska Anastasia.

So, you’ve created some fantastic renders and mockups of your artwork or products. Now it’s time to promote these images on your website, online stores, and social media channels.

While a professionally-styled and realistic mockup goes a long way to enticing potential customers and drawing in sales, visual marketing encompasses a broad range of elements and strategies that go beyond product imagery alone.

Discover more handy tips for getting started with marketing your creative work online, from how to create a perfect online customer experience to how to market your photography and illustration work online:

Cover image by contributor 3DJustincase.

The post Ways to Use 3D Mockups and Renders to Market Your Artwork Online appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

5 Ideas for Using Abstract Art in Your Website Designs

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 10:00:00 GMT

No longer limited to the confines of the gallery, abstract art can bring a touch of creativity and individuality to any design. Web design, too.

Artistic abstract images are trending thanks to a growing interest in fine art, craft-inspired products, and maximalist interiors across social media. No longer limited to the confines of the gallery, abstract art can bring a touch of creativity and individuality to almost any design.

The abstract art trend works beautifully for website layouts too, serving as an elegant, versatile backdrop for text and photos.

A web layout using an image. Image by contributor Tanor.

Different abstract art styles work for different types of websites, from e-commerce to corporate services. Discover five ideas for how to use abstract art in your digital designs, including recommended images for online stores, portfolios, services, architecture studios, and restaurants.

Why Should I Use Abstract Art in My Website Designs?

Abstract art uses shape, color, and form to achieve a visual effect, or convey a meaning or mood. It marked a departure from realism, which aims to represent an accurate version of reality. At the turn of the 20th Century, artists such as Kandinsky, Mondrian, Rothko, and Picasso began to experiment with abstraction, resulting in paintings and sculptures that pushed the definition of what art was and could be.

Today, abstract art describes a broad spectrum of images, objects, and practices influenced by a variety of abstract styles. These include styles such as Cubism, Fauvism, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, and Color Field painting.

Digital abstract art provides a new, exciting element to design. Image by contributor clivewa.

Abstract art isn’t limited to painting and sculpture. Abstract images can also be created digitally. In many ways, this has resulted in new and exciting abstract art that’s influenced by the context of digital technology and the capabilities of design software.

For web designers, the value of abstract art lies in its chameleonic ability to adapt to a wide range of purposes and businesses. Abstract images also bring visual interest to websites that would otherwise have to rely on a realist image or photograph, or simply block color and text.

In other words, abstract art is both versatile and aesthetically interesting, making these types of images a fantastic choice for websites that might be lacking a little something.

Read on to find out how to use abstract art in five common types of websites — e-commerce, portfolios, corporate services, architecture and design studios, and restaurants and bars.

Discover 10 On-Trend Background Ideas for Your Next Design

1. Abstract Art for E-commerce Websites

It’s important that visitors to an online store have a fuss-free shopping experience. So, seek out abstract images that help direct the focus onto the products themselves.

Busy and ultra-colorful backgrounds might not be the best choice for e-commerce sites. Instead, try images with plenty of white space for placing product images, and soothing color palettes that create a calming atmosphere for users.

This site design uses a 3D-rendered scene in an abstract art style, perfect for demonstrating a product, in this case a pen holder, on the landing page. Image by contributor M.Akarasirithada.

Look to organic abstract images that feature earthy, mid-century-inspired color palettes. Retail sites such as Anthropologie and Oliver Bonas often use these types of abstract backgrounds and graphics to reinforce the craft theme of their products. However, gentle abstract images will also work effectively for other related types of online stores, such as beauty, lifestyle, furniture, or clothing.

Background images that incorporate 3D renders designed to showcase product mockups are also useful for landing pages and product carousels. Look for geometric designs and materials — such as paper, marble, and metallic accents — for an on-trend look.

Check out these stylish and soothing abstract art images for e-commerce sites:

Image by contributor M.Akarasirithada.

Image by contributor Callahan.

Creative and stylish abstract art for e-commerce sites. Image by contributor nicetoseeya.

2. Abstract Art for Portfolio Websites

Whether you’re a photographer, illustrator, designer, or architect, a beautifully-designed portfolio site is essential for attracting new clients and securing future projects.

You probably have an image you’d like to use as the focal point of your portfolio site. However, abstract images can still play a useful role in filling in the gaps, particularly on pages that might otherwise be a little stark, such as contact and bio pages.

This web layout uses an abstract watercolor background in a geometric style for the home page. The shapes on the design allow for a quirky and interesting placement of the site’s menu items. Image by contributor Tanor.

Geometric abstract backgrounds create interesting spaces for placing links, menu items, or project images, and are stylish, as well. Meanwhile, paper, textile, or clay textures hint at a creative profession.

Look for abstract images that connect with your discipline. For example, paint splatter images are the perfect fit for painters or ceramicists. Meanwhile web designers might opt for tech-inspired digital art to emphasize their trade.

Discover more creative abstract images for portfolio sites:

Image by contributor Tanya Syrytsyna.

Re-imagining the natural world. Image by contributor nicetoseeya.

Digital reinterpretation of traditional handicrafts. Image by contributor flovie.

These inspiring abstract images are perfect for portfolio sites. Image by contributor DamienArt.

3. Abstract Art for Corporate Services

Corporate doesn’t have to be a byword for boring when it comes to design. Corporate services, such as legal firms, financial businesses, and agencies, can integrate abstract art into their websites to convey a sense of intellectualism and professionalism, as well as creative thinking.

Cleaner, more minimalist abstract images will suit corporate services or businesses that require a more formal look to their site designs. Tiled designs with a geometric style look striking and contemporary, and vector formats also allow you to incorporate the business’s brand colors with ease.

This website design for a legal practice uses an abstract geometric vector graphic, incorporating the business’s brand color palette. Image by contributor Normform.

Achieve a more energized and trend-led style for branding, advertising, and media agencies by using pop art-inspired graphics. Or, try subtle monochrome geometric art for a corporate-appropriate, elegant style, for backgrounds and icons.

Find more abstract art images suitable for using on corporate and professional websites:

Image by contributor clivewa.

Monochrome geometric image by contributor Curly Pat.

These innovative art pieces are perfect for professional websites. Image by contributor Softulka.

4. Abstract Art for Architecture or Design Studio Sites

Abstract art doesn’t have to be paint splatters. Instead, abstract photography of surfaces or textures can be a great fit for websites focused around material-centric design, such as architecture, landscaping, and product design.

Architecture practices and design studios can use abstract images on their websites to create an immersive experience, and give potential clients a strong sense of their methods and styles. Seamless backgrounds with a material focus — whether it’s metal, stone, wood, or marble — are endlessly useful for giving pages a tactile quality. Meanwhile, the repetitive nature of these types of images create a versatile, textural backdrop to more detail-focused project images.

This architecture studio’s website design uses a seamless material backdrop as a piece of visual art, in itself. The gray color palette is subtle and allows any brand colors to take center-stage. Image by contributor T.Dallas.

Look for closeups of materials, surface patterns, and wall textures in subdued colors to integrate into the backgrounds of pages:

Marble and agate textures add a touch of luxury. Image by contributor vectortwins.

Black waves image by contributor inter reality.

Image by contributor Weloveonitsuka.

Integrate these various patterns and textures for a stunning background layout. Image by contributor pernsanitfoto.

5. Abstract Art for the Websites of Restaurants, Bars, and Cafes

The food and beverage industry is widely varied, with different websites focusing on cuisines, restaurant locations, and products. A restaurant’s website should celebrate its individuality, as well as provide an engaging experience for users. Give them a taste of what they can expect from a dining visit.

Abstract art is a fantastic choice for food and beverage because it not only celebrates this individuality, but also elevates the aspirational experience of the website. Many Michelin-starred restaurants use abstract art in their marketing design because of abstract art’s associations with creativity and luxury.

In this example site design, the abstract background helps to reinforce the style of cuisine, as well as make a visual connection to the style of avant-garde cooking. Image by contributor ivosar.

With this in mind, seek out abstract images that help convey the ethos and personality of the venue and its food offerings. Sensory images that are colorful and dynamic can help to mimic the taste experience of drinking a particular wine or eating a beautifully-prepared plate of food.

Look for paint splatter images that mimic the creative style of contemporary cuisine. Or, use art with metallic accents to add a luxurious touch to websites for restaurants and bars.

Browse our edit of the best abstract art images for food and beverage websites:

Brushstrokes image by contributor Cherednychenko Ihor.

Paint splatter image by contributor Asperger_Syndrome.

Image by contributor KRAUCHANKA HENADZ.

Bars and restaurants strive to create an energetic, yet classy vibe. Image by contributor Asperger_Syndrome.

Looking for more artistic inspiration? Learn more about the definition of abstract art and why designers should use it for print and web layouts with these top articles and tips. Plus, learn why you should start an art journal of your own:

Cover image by contributor Normform.

The post 5 Ideas for Using Abstract Art in Your Website Designs appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.