Problems
Troubleshooting
An image that looked great in a small window breaks up into squares when you zoom in, and its caption suddenly contradicts another page. Problems like these can almost always be solved — you just need to check things in order.
If two sources disagree about a date, do not pick one at random: look for the one closest to the object itself.
How this section works: we suggest checks you can do yourself without infringing anyone's rights. We do not describe ways to get around image protection or website restrictions.
Common situations
The image is blurry when I zoom in
You most likely have a reduced copy. Look for the same picture in the official collection or via reverse image search: a larger version often exists. Stretching a small picture will not add detail.
The colours on screen look wrong
Colour depends on your screen settings, night mode, brightness and the lighting in the room. Compare the image on two devices, turn off the warm filter, and remember that the light during the shoot also affected the photo.
I can't find who made the picture
Try a reverse image search and pick out the earliest publications. Look at the file's metadata and at captions on neighbouring pages. If the author still cannot be found, do not attribute the work to anyone at random.
The caption contradicts other sources
Give priority to the record from the institution that holds the object. Dates are often revised after new research, so check whether there is a more recent version of the description.
A virtual tour won't open
Tours often need a fast connection and an up-to-date browser. Update your browser, allow the page to go full screen, close unnecessary tabs and try opening the tour on a computer.
A general routine for checking an image
Write down what bothers you
Blurriness, odd colour and a mismatched caption are different problems with different causes. One precise sentence saves time searching.
Find other versions of the picture
A reverse image search will show where else the picture appears. Compare the size, cropping and colour of the different copies.
Check against the object record
The image's proportions should match the object's dimensions, and the subject and details should match the description. If they do not, you may be looking at a different work or a mirrored copy.
Check your own device
Open the file on another screen and in another browser. If the problem disappears, the issue lies in your settings, not in the image.
Write to the collection owner
If the error seems to be in the record itself, report it through the institution's feedback form. That way you help other readers too.
See also
- Tools
The kinds of tools available: online collections, reverse image search, zoomable viewers, scanners, colour charts and metadata.
- Guides
Practical guides: how to find, check, caption and lawfully use an image of an artwork. The article catalogue is here too.
- Comparisons
Scan or photo, online collection or search result, open licence or public domain — a comparison of what really matters.
- Glossary
Terms in plain English: registering museum objects, resolution and colour accuracy, copyright and licences.
- Object photos (in Russian)
The old address of the photo gallery: how to look closely at photos of objects and what a picture cannot convey.
Sources
- Civil Code of the Russian Federation (arts. 1281, 1282)
- Russian Federal Law No. 54-FZ
Information on copyright terms, the public domain, open licences and the registration of museum objects was checked against the texts of the laws and the licence descriptions as of the date this page was prepared. The legal points refer to Russian law; terms and exceptions differ from country to country, so check the rules where you live. Online collections and image viewers work differently on different websites, so we describe them in general terms.