Photography Tips

If you do not have photographs which are adequate for the painting, I will coach you in taking pictures which will work. It is best to take lots of pictures with the help of someone who can interact with the pet. Patience is essential, and often pictures taken over the course of several days and times of day will yield the best results. Use natural lighting, either outside or near a window. Avoid harsh midday light and shade which casts uneven patterns on the pet. Lighting from the side that casts natural shadows is the best. Make sure you get down to the eye level of the pet. Fill the frame with the composition of the body and face you would prefer in the painting.

Here are two examples of good photos and the paintings I did from them.