3 Tips for Choosing the Right Photo for a Pet Portrait

If I know anything about pet owners, it’s that their phones are FILLED with photos of their pets. Rightfully so if you ask me, but will they be good enough to turn into a painted pet portrait? What makes a good quality photo in this case? 3 things…

1. 

   Lighting. Isn’t it always the case that our pets show their cute, funny, sassy or weird selves when it’s time for bed, you’re watching a movie or it’s dark outside? You might have one light on in the house and they are standing so that only half their face is lit or makes them look like they have a mustache (not that there is anything wrong with that! I’ve painted some really neat cats with unique markings.) Whatever the timing, it is always inconvenient! Plus, in the moment there is no time to set up the right lighting and position our pets perfectly. It’s not a concern. Capturing them in that moment, freezing their personality in time is the goal. Lighting is key because it lets the artist see the true colors of your pets fur, body, eye color and markings. The only way an artist sees your pet is through the photos provided. That is where tip 2 comes in…

2. Clarity! Even if you have professional photos taken and the lighting is spectacular, if the photos are not clear, what was the point of taking the photos? Don’t get me wrong, there are times when a blurred or ghosting effect is needed/wanted, however, in this case it is not ideal. You see your pet everyday. You are able to study them, get to know their personality and their distinct markings. Having a clear photo to share with your artist helps them capture those markings and their personality you know and love so much. That brings us to the last tip…

3. Front Facing. The typical pet portrait is of a pet sitting and facing forward with some chest showing. I’d say 93% of the pet portraits I have painted are just as I described. Front facing portraits let the artist see your pets whole face, their eye color (if they have eyes) and if there are any markings on the chest. I love painting these types of poses, however, I have to say the wacky/fun photos taken when our pets are showing their true personality are fun as well. These photos are the ones we keep as our phone screen saver/background, not typically a photo we print out. As a painting though, they make fantastic talking/ focal points. A classic front facing pet portrait is always a great option too. 

   

I hope this helps you choose the best photo for your next (or first) pet portrait! Of course there is always the case where new photos are not able to be taken due to the loss of a pet. If this is the case there are tips and tricks to still getting a pet portrait to commemorate their life. Stay tuned for tips and tricks in that case.