reference photos and

some helpful tips

A well taken reference photo is the key to having a detailed portrait that captures a true likeness.

Here are a few helpful tips when it comes to taking/selecting the best photograph.

Get to your pets level…

Think of it like a passport photograph. Dogs with longer snouts tend to look best if they are not facing head on, rather at 45 degrees or so.

Get their attention…

Your pet doesn’t have to be looking at the camera head on, however bright, energetic eyes makes an expressive portrait. Try using a treat or a favourite toy to get their attention.

Soft natural light…

A clear, well lit photo is best. Outside in the shade works well or near a window. This helps to capture subtle shadows and highlights and makes for a more dynamic portrait.

Be cautious of overly bright, saturated photos or very dark photos.

High quality…

iPhone/Android cameras are great. Please be aware to send the original photo and not a screenshot. Low quality, fuzzy or pixelated photographs don’t give me a lot of fine detail to work from, so make sure the photos are as crisp as possible, this allows me to zoom in and capture all the tiny details, especially when it comes to the eyes.