In our pursuit of fostering connections through creativity and art, we’re excited to share a valuable resource with you. Art has the incredible power to transcend physical boundaries and bring people closer, even when separated by prison walls. Many of us have loved ones who express themselves through art while behind bars, and preserving their creativity is essential.
We are thrilled to announce that we have adapted a guide from Format Magazine on how to photograph your incarcerated loved ones’ artwork. This guide provides step-by-step instructions and tips to help you capture the essence of their creations, ensuring that their artistic expressions are preserved and shared with the world.
Why is this Guide Important?
Art created by people in prisons, jails, and detention centers often serves as a unique and powerful form of self-expression. It reflects their thoughts, emotions, and experiences, offering a glimpse into their inner worlds. By photographing and sharing their artwork, you not only celebrate their talents but also amplify their voices and stories.
These photos that you submit to JAC help us showcase their art in their online portfolios and facilitate opportunities for their art to be featured in exhibitions and galleries.
View, Download, and Print the Guide!
Example Photos

Pro Tip: In order for us to share photos of your loved one’s artwork, we’ll need a completed consent form. Click to view and print the consent form.
You can find the full guide we adapted from here: https://www.format.com/magazine/resources/photography/photograph-artwork