Photographing your pet

 

The aim is to create a portrait of your pet which will look just like the photo you provide only more personal and unique.

 

I work only from your photographs so here are some great tips on taking photos of your pets if the ones you already have aren't ideal. If your pet is deceased or if for any reason taking a new photo isn't possible, skip down to point 5.

 

1. Use natural light where possible. Flash photography can distort features and make eyes seem unappealing. Also make sure photos aren't backlit, that is, the daylight is behind you and not your pet (this is especially important with darker furred pets). Remember natural daylight is always best. Some lighting such as fluroescent can give a greenish tinge whereas a halogen light can give an orange hue. Below is an example of the light behind or facing the pet. 

 

2. Go to them and at their eye level. If you can preferably photograph animals where they are already comfortable (for example resting on a couch or sitting on stairs) you will get them at their best. Also, get down to their eye level. The angle will make for a much better portrait.

 

3. Take lots of photos. The more photographs you take, the more you as a client and I as an artist can pick the best possible image to use for your portrait. 

 

4. Note the composition. What I see in the photo is what I draw so ensure you're happy with the positioning of limbs and ears and the like. Although I can always do detail removal such as taking out collars or changing the background.

 

5. Many of the portraits I do have been of deceased pets where taking new photographs is not an option or for surprise gifts for friends where photos at your disposal may be limited. A lot of past clients have been just like this and while a great photo is preferable, I can always work with whatever you have.