Good photographs are important. Please remember that the clearer the photos, the better your contemporary pet portrait will be. If you need help, then read on.
Start with at least a 4 megapixel camera.
- Get a little closer to your pet than you normally would to take the photographs.
- Try to get down to the same eye-level as your pet (or elevate them close to yours) because images looking down at them are not the most flattering.
- Try to get a good close-up head shot and full body picture as well (don't forget the feet and the tail).
- The nose and eyes (and tongue if we are painting a dog) should be in focus.
- Try to get some pictures when their eyes are wide open when your pet is alert, perhaps with a favourite toy.
- Keep the background uncluttered and contrasting with your pet (so I can see their body shape).
- Take the pictures outdoors or with good natural lighting if possible (a bright overcast day is best). No flash please!
- If your pet is black or very dark, take some pictures in strong lighting (ok, flash or direct sun but only in this case). If you must use flash and have red-eye reduction, please use it.
- Looking at the camera or with their head slightly turned away (3/4 view) is great!
Maybe you can wait for them to get into a favourite quirky pose?
These things are not critical, but if you can achieve some of them, you will be well on the way to a great portrait!
Backgrounds
Don't worry about a background you may not want in your photo. I change the background to suit each individual pet portrait. A plain background can give the portrait a more contemporary feel and focus on your pet.
If however, you feel that a particular setting is important, I may be able paint it in. We can discuss this when I see your photographs. All pictures will of course be returned.
Need help with Photography? (optional)
If you need help with photography, I can take some digital photos for you (and meet your pet at the same time!), if you live in or around Sydney. I charge $120 to cover travelling and materials. A photographic session usually takes around two hours. I am happy to travel interstate or overseas by arrangement, accomodation and travelling expenses are of course additional. You can keep the pictures I take for your portrait, please request a CD.
If you are going to scan and email your photos, please make them at least 1Mb / 300dpi or preferably send me the original pictures and I will scan them for you (there is no additional charge and I can return them immediately if you request).