How to take a photo for a custom pet portrait

It is best to send along at least two photos of your pet.  Make sure it is a photo that captures your pet’s energy (or lack thereof..hehe) so that I can create a painting that not only looks like him or her, but one that reminds you of his or her character.  See examples below!

SEND A PHOTO YOU HAVE

If you do not have the time to take new photos of your dog, email me what you have.  Please remember that a blurred photo will compromise your dog’s features and in turn his or her likeness in the painting.

TAKE A NEW PHOTO

Here area few tips for taking a NEW picture of your pet.

Outdoor Lighting
+ Outdoor lighting is best!
+ Take the photo in the shade if you are outdoors to guarantee true colors.
+ DO NOT use a flash. .you’ll be sure to get red-eye and I won’t know your dogs eye color.

Indoor Lighting
+ If you need to take the photo indoors, be sure to have enough light.
+ DO NOT use a flash. You can use a lamp or spotlight to achieve a brighter photo without flash.

Your Position
+ Try to take the shot at your dog’s level – eye level would be best.
+ Make sure he is calm and comfortable while taking his picture.
+ You may need someone to hold him but that will not be a problem for me as long as his face isn’t covered.

Expression and Pose
+ A smile would be great unless you have a very serious dog.
+ Try to capture his personality so that I can duplicate the feel of your pet in the painting.

 

Pet photography examples, the good and the bad.

 GOOD: This photo is clear, dog has a nice expression..

 GOOD: Very crisp photo, nice background.

 BAD: Although this is a cute photo, it would not make a good portrait.

 BAD: This is a cute photo, chewing on a toy, but it is too blurry.