Reference Photo

Photo Guidelines for Your Pet Portrait.

A great portrait starts with a great photo!

To capture your pet’s unique personality and true likeness, the reference photo you provide is one of the most important parts of the process. Here are a few tips to help you take (or choose) the best possible photos:

• High-Quality images. Clear, detailed photos help me see the fine details that make your pet special, from fur texture to eye colour. The camera on your smart phone can capture a good photograph, so no need for a SLR camera.

• Natural light is key. Whenever possible, take your photos outdoors or near a window with lots of natural light. This helps reveal the true colours and details of your pet's coat, eyes, and features.

• Get on their level. Try to take the photo at your pet’s eye level rather than from above. This gives a more natural and engaging perspective that really brings your portrait to life.

• Avoid low light, motion blur, or cropped images. Dim lighting and blurry shots make it difficult to capture detail. Similarly, try not to crop parts like ears or paws drawing missing features from guesswork can be tricky!

• Send a few photos. Even though I’ll work from one main image, having a few extra photos helps me see different angles, markings, and personality traits.

• If you're unsure, just ask! If you're not sure whether your photos are suitable, feel free to get in touch, I’m more than happy to offer advice or help you choose the best one.

• In loving memory. If your pet has passed and you only have older or lower-quality photos, please send what you have. I completely understand and will do my very best to work from them and honour their memory with care and heart.