Photo Guide
Choosing the right reference photo is an important part of creating a portrait that captures your pet's character and likeness.
If you're unsure which photos will work, don't worry - you're very welcome to send them over. I'm always happy to review your images and guide you towards the best choice.
What Makes a Great Reference Photo?
To allow me to create the best possible portrait of your pet, aim for photos that:
✔ Are taken in good, natural lighting
✔ Clearly show your pet's features and details
✔ Capture their natural expression and personality
Guidelines for Your Pet Photos.
Choosing or taking photos of your pet should feel easy and enjoyable. If you're unsure about anything, don't hesitate to get in touch
Natural daylight works best for accurate colour and detail.
Wherever possible, take your photos outdoors using natural daylight. Slightly overcast days are ideal, as bright sunlight can create harsh shadows and reduce detail.
If outdoor photos aren’t possible, choose a bright room and position your pet close to a window for soft, even lighting.
Eye-level photos give the most natural and accurate result.
Photograph your pet at eye level wherever possible to capture their expression and proportions naturally.
Photos taken from above or below can distort features or hide important details, particularly around the eyes.
Close, sharp images help capture fine detail.
Take your photos close enough that your pet fills the frame, either head and shoulders or full body, depending on the portrait you'd like.
Make sure that:
- No part of your pet is cropped out
- The image is sharp and in focus
- Fine details like fur and markings are clearly visible
Choose a photo that feels like them.
The best portraits come from photos that capture your pet’s natural personality.
You might:
- Use a favourite toy or treat to get their attention
- Capture them relaxed, playful, or alert
- Choose an expression that feels most “like them”
Please send the highest quality version available.
Where possible, please send original photo files.
Please try to avoid:
- Sending screenshots
- Downloaded images from social media
These reduce image quality and make it harder to capture fine detail.
Further Guidance
1. Multiple Pets
2. Memorial Pet Portraits
2. Memorial Pet Portraits
If you’re planning a portrait with multiple pets, it’s helpful to send individual photos of each one. They don’t need to be photographed together — in fact, single-pet photos often work best.
Please ensure each pet is photographed using the same tips in this guide:
- Clear, well-lit images showing eyes, markings, and expression
- Photos taken at eye-level
- Shots where their features are sharp and in focus
If you have a favourite group photo, feel free to include it. It’s useful for understanding size differences and how they naturally interact, even if I don’t paint directly from it.
2. Memorial Pet Portraits
2. Memorial Pet Portraits
2. Memorial Pet Portraits
For memorial portraits, choose photos that capture your pet’s personality or a moment you cherish.
- Choose photos that show their eyes clearly whenever possible
- Send original files rather than screenshots (if you still have them)
You’re welcome to send a selection - even imperfect images can help me understand their character. I’ll gently guide you on which ones will create the most meaningful portrait.
3. Local Support
2. Memorial Pet Portraits
3. Local Support
If you’re local to Lincolnshire, I can arrange a photoshoot to capture your pet's features and personality.
You could also ask a friend or family member to help if taking photos yourself is tricky.
Reference Photo Examples (More to Come)
Ginger tabby cat
Tips & Tricks
Photographing your pets can be tricky
Some pets aren't particularly keen on having their photos taken! If your pet is camera shy, they may look nervous or unlike themselves in photographs. A few simple tricks can help you capture their natural character.
Try:
➔ Use their favourite treats to get their attention.
➔ Have a favourite toy nearby to encourage a playful expression.
➔ Using the "W" word, although this may create too much excitement!
➔ Taking photos during a walk, when your pet may be more energetic and alert.
If you'd prefer a more sleepy and relaxed expression, try taking your photos outdoors after a long walk, once your pet has had time to settle.
Did You Find This Helpful?
Explore these guides for extra advice on ordering a portrait
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