REFERENCE EXAMPLES
Tips on reference photos for dog portraits:
The better the reference photo you can provide the better the result!
What I’m after is a photo that you think captures the essence of your pup.
Additional photos can also help me capture the character, likeness and the colouration of your pet.
I totally understand that if your dog is no longer with us it might be harder to get the perfect image but we can decide together which image to use to get a beautiful memorial portrait of your dog.
For extra assistance scroll down for examples of the photos I used next to the final artwork.
Here are some tips to help you find or take a good reference photo:
Resolution:
A well focused photo with a high resolution will capture your pet in more detail.
Framing
Your pet should fill the image so that I can see all the details clearly. I recommend taking a picture of your pet from the front at eye level also the eyes are really important to the final artwork they really draw the viewer in.
Pose:
Just head shots are the most popular but if you would like a full body artwork I’ll need a photo where your pet is in the pose that you want me to reproduce, try to get one that captures something of their unique and wonderful character.
Between us we will choose the perfect photo that captures your dog’s personality.
Lighting:
A well-lit photograph will help capture your pet at its best. Make sure it reflects the correct coat colour but again extra photos will help its surprising how many colours there are in dog fur!
Taking a photo in natural light is ideal but well-lit rooms can work well too.
Perspective:
One more thing to be aware of is taking the picture too close to your subject. This can make the nose look bigger as it is relatively much closer to the lens. Ideally, take the picture a bit further way so your pet’s features are in proper proportion in the image.
Collars:
If you would like me to draw your pet’s collar, it’s best if they are wearing it in the reference photo but I can work from a separate photo of your pet wearing the collar if necessary.
