Hand-Painted Pet Portraits from £95 - Commissions Open

Jo Shepherd
Pet Portraits

Jo Shepherd Pet PortraitsJo Shepherd Pet PortraitsJo Shepherd Pet Portraits
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    • Portraits by Type
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    • Portrait Guides & Advice
      • FAQs
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      • Photo Guide
      • Framing Advice
      • Gifting a Pet Portrait
    • Blog

Jo Shepherd
Pet Portraits

Jo Shepherd Pet PortraitsJo Shepherd Pet PortraitsJo Shepherd Pet Portraits
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Pet Portraits
  • Testimonials
  • Prices
  • Contact
  • Portraits by Type
    • Dog Portraits
    • Cat Portraits
    • Rabbit Portraits
    • Memorial Pet Portraits
  • Portrait Guides & Advice
    • FAQs
    • How it Works
    • Size Guide
    • Photo Guide
    • Framing Advice
    • Gifting a Pet Portrait
  • Blog
Taking a reference photo of a Jack Russell Terrier to create a custom watercolour pet portrait from.
Hand-Painted Pet Portraits From Your Photos

Pet Portraits | Photo Guide

This guide is here to help you take and choose the best reference photos for your portrait.


Don't worry if you're unsure which images will work - I'm happy to review your photos and guide you every step of the way.

Ready to share your pet photos?

Helping You Choose the Perfect Photos

Take your time exploring - discover tips and advice on what makes the best reference photo for your pet portrait:


  • Why Your Photos Matter
  • Good Lighting
  • Perspective
  • Distance from Pet
  • Expressions and Personality
  • Sending Original Files
  • Other Things to Consider
  • Tips & Tricks

Why Your Photos Matter

Our most recent family member, a gorgeous miniature poodle named Jasper.

Your photos truly make a difference to the finish of your pet portrait


My portraits are hand-painted with attention to the fine details that make your pet unique. 


To achieve a true likeness, it is essential that you provide high-quality images which are:


  • Taken in good lighting


  • Capture your pets personality


  • Show your pets features and details clearly 


The right reference photo helps me create a watercolour portrait that captures your pet's true likeness and character in my detailed and lifelike style.


If a photo isn't suitable, I'll let you know and suggest helpful ways to improve it.


Read on to discover what makes a good pet portrait reference photo.

Good Lighting

Natural daylight works best

Wherever possible, take your photos outdoors in natural daylight. Bright sunlight can shrink pupils - slightly overcast days often work even better.


If outdoor photos aren’t possible, choose a room with plenty of natural light and position your pet close to a window.

Perspective

Capture their features accurately

Eye-level Perspective - A photo taken at eye-level captures character and prevents distortion. Perfect for showing personality as well as detail.


 Taking photos from above or below can elongate or shorten your pets body or facial features or obscure the eyes. 


Distance From Pet

Photos taken close up work best

Take your photographs close up so your pets head and shoulders or full body (dependant on your portrait preferences) fill the shot. 


Ensure that you do not crop any of your pet out of the photo. Check that your photos are clear and sharp and not out of focus or blurry. 

Expression & Personality

Choosing a photo that reflects their personality

Use favourite toys or treats to spark expression and personality.

Send Original Files

Avoid screenshots and social media downloads

Where possible, send the original photograph. 


Avoid: 


  • Downloading photos from Facebook or 
  • Taking screenshots. 


Image quality is reduced in the process due to compression. 

I'll happily review your photos and guide you on the best choice

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS WITH ME

Other Things to Consider

1. Multiple Pets

2. Memorial Portraits

2. Memorial 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 that show eyes, markings, and expression


  • Photos taken at eye-level works best for multiple pets


  • Shots where their features are in sharp 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 Portraits

2. Memorial Portraits

2. Memorial Portraits

For memorial pieces, choose photos that capture your pet’s true 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 Portraits

3. Local Support


If you’re local to Lincolnshire, I can arrange a photoshoot to capture your pet perfectly.  


You could also ask a friend or family member to help you if your camera isn’t ideal.  

Reference Photo Examples

Ginger tabby cat

Photograph and watercolour painting of a ginger tabby cat, watercolour pet portraits from photos UK

Tips & Tricks

Photographing your pets can be tricky


Some pets do not appear to enjoy having their photos taken!! If your pet is camera shy, they can often look nervous. I can only portray the character which I see in the photographs. Therefore I would advise employing some tricks in an attempt to achieve their true character in the photo:


  • Use their favourite treats to entice them
  • Have a favourite toy at hand to achieve a playful expression.
  • Use the "W" word, although this may create too much excitement!
  • During a walk, your pet is usually quite energetic and you may capture some alertness.
  • If you would prefer your portrait to portray a more sleepy and relaxed expression, you could try taking photos outdoors after a long walk, or in the evening.

Did You Find This Helpful?

Explore these guides for extra advice on ordering a portrait
How it WorksSize GuideFraming AdviceGifting a Pet Portrait

Jo Shepherd- Pet Portraits | Lincoln, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, UK


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