Choose the best photograph
I always advise customers to choose the photograph they feel best captures the subjects character. If the photograph looks like the subject, then your finished portrait will too! But there are other factors that should be considered aswell.

The face must be larger enough in the photo for the features to be clearly visible - bigger is better. The subjects' eyes should be open, not squinting in bright sunlight, for example, (except babies who may be pictured asleep). For a head and shoulders portrait the photo must include all of the head. If part of the head or face is cut off then I can do a cropped portrait - there are examples of these in the galleries.

As well as the one main photograph you can select additional photographs that will help me achieve the best likeness of the subject. Send photographs that show a pet's eye and coat colour. I often work from children's school photographs. If you would like them painted without school uniform, then please supply a photograph showing different clothes, taken from a similar position if possible. I can 'tidy up' hair, but I do not advise combining photos to show a different hairstyle for example.

 

If you do not have a suitable photograph, then her are some tips for taking some.

Photographing People
It is better to take photographs in natural light or outdoors, but try to avoid very bright sunlight with harsh shadows. A chair next to the window often works well. If you need to use flash have as much additional light available as possible.

Don't look down on your subject. Position yourself at their level. If children are old enough, they could sit on a raised surface, such as a table.

Young babies are often happiest photographed in a parent's arms. The finished portrait will just have some light shading in the background, it will not show supporting hands or arms. Including babies hands will often enhance the portrait.

A three quarter views works well where the subject has to turn their head slightly to face the camera. Charming child portraits might also feature them looking away or engaged in an activity, or in the case of tiny babies they are often asleep!

 

Photographing Pets
When possible take photographs outside or in natural light but try to avoid very bright sunlight with harsh shadows. Black cats and dogs are best photographed on a cloudy day if possible. If your pet has a favourite well-lit place, such as a windowsill or chair, try photographing them there.

Avoid photographing your pet from above. Get down to their level, go in as close as you can and get them to look towards you. Fill the frame. Try and take some additional photos of your pets eyes and face. It may be easier to photograph your pet sitting or lying down. A straight on view can make the face look flat, so try to take the photograph with your pet turned slightly to the left or right.

It may help to get someone else to take the photo, whilst you distract your pet. Stand next to the person taking the photograph, so that your pet looks towards the camera. If you or your helper needs to hold on to your pet I can take out the restraining hand or arm, but if possible try and get some additional photographs, so I can see what is underneath.