Photographs for Portraits

Choose one clear, well‑detailed photo that shows the exact pose you want. You can add extra photos for small details. The eyes are essential — they give personality and must be clearly visible with correct color. I need to see facial details (nostrils, lips, etc.) large and sharp enough to copy. You know the face well, but I rely only on your photos to capture its unique features. If you take new photos, do it outside at eye level. Face the sun or have it slightly to the side; never shoot with the sun behind the subject.As I mentioned above extra photos are also suggested as these can serve as a reference for colouring, close-up details, and personality. Subjects, features, or backgrounds can be combined from separate photographs, and elements such as collars and leashes can easily be omitted.  

• Get as close to your subject as you can while keeping the photo in focus.

  • For a Head Study: crop tightly to the head for clear detail.

  • For a Full Body: fill the frame with the body.

  • Backgrounds aren’t needed unless you want the whole scene. If you do, also send a close photo of just the subject in the same pose so I can see details.

  If pets or children won’t sit still, have someone hold them in the photo — that person will be painted out unless you ask otherwise.

  If your pet has passed and you have no clear photo, send the largest, clearest image you have. I’ll try my best, but I need visible details to work from.

  These tips help me create the best painting.