Choosing Reference Photo

When painting commissions I work solely from your reference photo. It is very important that I have a high quality photo to work from. Here are some tips for choosing the best one.

  • QUALITY – Your photo must be in focus and taken with a high megapixel camera (modern phones are usually fine). I love adding as much detail to my artwork as possible, and I want to make your pet portrait beautiful! If the photo is of poor quality I will not be able to add the important details that make your pet unique. I can only paint the detail I am able to see in the photo.  
  • LIGHT – Ensure the photo is well-lit, preferably with natural daylight. Photos taken outside or near a window are usually great. A good test is in the eyes; can you see their color? Do they have a reflection? If not, it is likely too dark. Check the color of your pet in the photo. Is it true to their real coloring? Some indoor lighting will alter fur color quite drastically. Unfortunately I will not be able to accept any photos taken with a camera flash.
  • POSE – The subject should be large in the frame. Please don’t zoom after the photo has been taken, get close while taking the picture. Pictures taken at eye level make the best portraits. 
  • DOWNLOADS – Try not to download the photo from social media sites as they squash the original file size. I would prefer to be sent the original photo in its actual size.

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