Here are some Photo Tips:
I have found that patience is definitely a virtue when photographing your pet. You may want to get a photo of them in their favorite spot, this way they will look happy and relaxed.
Try to take the photo in good light but not direct, bright sunlight, so they are not squinting their eyes.
A photo taken outdoors on a bright cloudy day works well.
It may help to have someone else to hold your pet while you are taking the photo. It doesn't matter if they get in the photo I can draw them out of the portrait as long as they don't cover up any important markings or features of your pet.
Photograph of Casey
Colored Pencil Drawing of Casey
Always try and get down to your pets level when taking a photo, so you aren't looking down on them too much.
If you are able to take some photos specifically for me to draw from - then try to get a good close up of your pet. A close-up of the pet’s face and head is especially important. I would like to see the direction of the fur, eye lashes, scars, markings. This detail is very important!
NOTE: If you would like two or more animals in one portrait it is best to photograph them separately, it’s very hard to get them all facing the same way etc.
However, it helps for me to see at least one photograph of them all together just so I can see how they compare in size to each other. If this isn't possible (if they have passed away) a brief description of relative size will be helpful.
Colored Pencil Drawing of Gibson
Photograph of Gibson
I work from photographs but they must be clear. It is helpful if you can send me a selection of photos to choose from. This gives me a better idea of what your pet looks like. The better the photos, the better your finished portrait will be.
If you aren't sure if your photos are suitable for a portrait then please feel free to send them to me anyway, I can take a look and determine if the portrait can be done.
(Photos will be handled with care.)
Photograph of Beaney
Colored Pencil Drawing of Beaney
More examples of good photographs:
