This is a very important step in your custom portrait. I can’t emphasise enough how your portrait will only be as good as the photograph that you provide me with, so it is essential to get factors such as image quality, pose and lighting right. Please don’t worry as I will be on hand to guide you through this step of the process.
For me, the most important factor to get across in your portrait is to capture the spirit of the subject, so I will want to know a bit more about the subject that I will be drawing and why it is so special to you. This will also help in deciding which photo to base your portrait on.
- Take the photo at eye level with your pet. Crouch down or lie on the floor rather than taking the photo from high overhead. And try a few shots where you get in close.
- Use natural light. Use natural light for photographing your pet, so it shows up all the textures and colours in their fur and reflections in their eyes. A sunny spot near a window would work as well.
- Focus on the eyes. The eyes are the window to the soul. Focusing on your pet’s eyes can help create an emotional connection, so it’s best to capture some lovely reflections in their eyes.
- Avoid busy backgrounds. Your pet should be the centre of attention in your portrait, so try to photograph it with a plain background e.g. grass, white wall. Don’t worry if you can’t achieve this as I can probably work around it.
- Show your pet’s personality. Try to choose photos that shows your pet’s personality, whether that be in their expression, with their favourite toy etc.
- Frame your shot in different ways. Try to take photos of your pet from different angles e.g. side profiles, diagonal and direct to camera. Don’t be afraid to experiment.
- The more photos the better. Having a good selection of photos helps to find the right balance between best pose, lighting and capturing their personality.
- Send original, hi-resolution, photos only. It’s best if I receive the original photo (without any cropping) so I can see all the details clearly e.g. reflection in the eyes, texture of fur, texture on their nose etc.
- Finally, have fun photographing your pet and use treats if needed!