How to take the best photos of your pet

To help create the best possible portrait of your pet, please provide clear, high-resolution and quality photos. Well-lit images where your pet’s face and features are easy to see, make all the difference.

Please note: If the submitted images are blurry, poorly lit, or lack detail, I reserve the right to decline the request and/or ask for new photos.

Lighting

Natural light is best - always.

  • Photograph your pet outdoors in open shade - under a tree, porch, by a wall.

  • Avoid mid-day sun - it is harsh and it creates strong shadows and washed out fur. This applies even more for white or light colored pets.

  • Early morning or late afternoon gives soft, flattering light.

  • Cloudy days are great for photos.

  • Avoid indoor overhead lighting or flash.

  • If you must take indoor photos, do it by a window, placing (or luring) your pet near it, ideally with their side facing the window.

Positioning and Camera Level.

Get on your pets level.

  • Kneel or sit so the camera is in eye level with the pet.

  • It is helpful to have someone with you to help get your pet’s attention with a toy or other means.

  • If your pet has certain features that you adore, try to capture them well.

Multiple Subjects

  • For multiple pets in the same painting, it is best when both are in the same photo.

  • However, I know how hard it is to get two (or more) pets to cooperate at the same time, so I will accept separate images, if there is no other option.

  • If separate images are used: ensure that they are taken at the same time, and the same place, and from the same camera position, and distance, as much as possible. We want the same lighting conditions.

  • Submitting a photo of all pets (even if it is not the photo you want painted) is still required, as it will show me their sizes in relation to each other.

Take off collars and clothes - the portraits are best without them. However if you feel strongly about it, and would really like to have your pet in a certain outfit, or if you want their collar painted, please let me know, and I will accommodate.

Commission