PET PORTRAITS FROM PHOTOS – CAPTURE THE PERFECT SHOT

ACHIEVING THE PERFECT REFERENCE PHOTO

Good photographic reference is the key to any great artwork.The clarity, lighting and level of detail is essential in order to capture the reference perfectly within your artwork. What is captured will be directly reflected within your personalised artwork.
Particularly when doing Pet Portraits from photos, the photographic reference needs to be varied and clear. I usually work of 3-5 photos this gives me enough variety of your dogs colour and character in order for me to capture it perfectly in the dog drawing.

 

CAMERA OR PHONE CAMERA?

For great photos you dont need the most expensive camera, setting the subject in the right light is probably the most crucial part. Most modern day cameras, whether that be a phone camera, point and shoot digital camera, or an all singing DLSR, they will all capture enough detail as long as the subject is clear, well lit and given enough space around it to clearly see every aspect of the subject. If you see the image opposite, you will see how this is visually explained, If you have any questions or are unsure if a photo is suitable please feel free to get in touch.

 

LIGHTING THE SUBJECT

The easiest way to achieve a well lit photograph is to take the picture in natural daylight. Using natural daylight will give a true representation of the colour and highlights, without any yellow casting from indoor lighting or flare points which can happen if taken using a flash.

 

CLEAR FOCUS

This is kind of obvious but if the photo is blurred and out of focus in any part this will be reflected in the finished artwork. If there are minor flat points on the photograph these can be enhanced and lifted on the artwork, using reference of the clear points of the photograph. When taking the photo, the key thing is to have your focus point in the centre of the subject to capture the maximum amount of detail.

 

Remember – When you setting your photo, look at it and try to imagine in enlarged hanging on your wall, to try and make sure your happy with what the finished artwork will look like.

Not sure what size to have your pencil drawing”?

Look at the space you are wanting to place it, make sure there is enough space around the subject, i normally advise 1/2 to 3/4 of the area so the artwork can standout without overpowering the room. Take a look at the prices page for details on cost.

VIEW PRICES

USING EXISTING PHOTOGRAPHS OR REFERENCE FOR YOUR PET PORTRAIT

If you have an existing photograph to use as reference for your personalised artwork, the same principles apply as mentioned previously, apart from the fact the photograph or reference size needs to be a minimum size of 6×4 inches, the photo needs to be clear and well balanced in terms of lighting, to capture as much detail as possible. If you are not to sure, you can always drop me a line and i will happily discuss this with you. Previously I have worked off some very small and old photographs, but if the detail is there it can be blown up for visual support.

 

OTHER REFERENCE

If you have an image of the internet or even a magazine image, these can be great reference also for artwork. The main reason these are usually good reference is they have been taken professionally so the lighting and subject has been set very well.

 

PHOTO SELECTION

If you have more than one photos to use for reference for your artwork, feel free to send them all, the more the merrier as different photos can capture different elements of a subject to help capture the best overall detail and chracter of the subject. I’m always happy to advise, offer an opinion and discuss the available options based on the images you are able to provide.

CALL ME ON 0777 999 3163 TO DISCUSS YOUR COMMISSION REQUIREMENTS

REQUEST A CALLBACK

    What our customers are saying

    “I was so pleased with the portrait of my late husband John, the likeness was incredible, i was blown away with the realism of the drawing thankyou so much I will treasure if forever” – Jeane Armstrong – Preston Lancashire

    Read our other testimonials

    FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE ARTIST

    From pet & people portraits to stunning wildlife scenes, i can create the perfect piece of artwork for you no matter what subject you have in mind. As you can see over the last year or so i have covered, mainly pet and people portraiture, but don’t let this worry you, over the last 30 years, i have covered every subject type, using every type of medium, to create stunning works of art, that are now hanging on walls in all corners of the world.

    If you have a particular subject in mind or would like your artwork and unusual size, please feel free to give me a call, I will be happy to chat over your ideas and thoughts about your ideal artwork.

    VIEW