Photos

I draw or paint from high resolution photos, and these need to be clear and detailed, and the colours in the photo should be as close to real-life as possible. Pictures should be taken in natural light and avoid using a flash. I will normally ask for several different photos of the subject matter, as this gives me a good idea of the subject’s personality, features, and colour. I am happy to come and take the photos if you live nearby, but I do need to include the time this takes in the price. We will discuss and agree on the best photos and pose before the portrait is commissioned.

It is often easier to email me high resolution photos, but if you prefer to send them in the post, please make copies and send them via signed for or recorded delivery. All photos will be returned.

Key points

Detail is very important! High resolution images that show the detail of the subject are essential. The more detailed the photo, the better the portrait will be.
Always try to take photos of the subject in natural daylight but away from direct sun so the subject does not have dark shadows or colour bleaching.
Make sure the colour in the photo is as close to the colour of the subject as possible, or provide several photos that show the most life-like colour.
Try to avoid action shots, as these can be blurred and not show enough detail.
The photo of the pose you would like me to paint should give a good indication of the character of the subject you would like to see in the finished portrait. If your dog is usually energetic and playful, you may not want a portrait of your dog looking half asleep! However there is nothing wrong with wanting the more unusual or unconventional image if that is what you want.
Try to take a picture of the subject at eye level or very slightly above your pet’s eye level. Photos taken from above can distort the shape of the header not show all their features. When the portrait is hung on your wall, it will look odd if the image is ‘looking down’ on your pet.
Generally, pets with long noses do not look their best facing straight at the camera as this tends to foreshorten and distort the shape of the face.
Whilst you have the camera, try asking someone else to attract your pet’s attention in the direction you would like it to look - often just over your shoulder. Treats and squeaky toys work wonders!
Take LOTS of photos if you can. You can then look through them and choose the best few.

Copyright

I retain the copyright on all artwork I produce, and I reserve the right to use the artwork on my website and for my own promotional material. I will not reproduce any commissioned artwork for sale. I will not use your name or any other identifying details, unless you give me express consent to do this. If you are uncomfortable having the artwork displayed on my website or my social media platforms, please let me know during our discussions about the commission.

If you are commissioning your portrait for a birthday or significant event, and you do not want it posted publicly before that date, please let me know during our discussions about the commission.

Please make sure that the photos supplied are taken by you, or you have the permission of the photographer to use the photos in this way. Please note that I cannot paint a portrait for you using an image from the internet without the copyright holder’s permission.