What Makes a Successful Pet Photograph

I think that one of the most difficult parts of creating a great painting of your pet is getting quality reference photos. While I am more than happy to try and work from existing photographs you may already have, I find that it does help greatly when you have the option of taking photos specifically with the painting in mind. Here is just a list of ideas that should help you take a great photograph of your beloved pet.

1. If you are using a digital camera - the higher the resolution, the better the photo. I usually have all photos blown up quite a bit to ensure accuracy when painting. Unfortunately, if the photographs have a low resolution they become pixelated the larger they are and may not be usable as a good reference.

2. Consider the lighting where you will be taking your photo. As a general rule, natural lighting is always the best, but try to avoid strong sunlight or dark shadows. If at all possible take your photo outside on an overcast (but not rainy) day. Living in Arizona, days like this rarely occur, so a few other options would be outside under a patio umbrella or shade from a patio wall. If your pet is not an outdoor animal you could also take their photograph inside near a large window. Just make sure the window is not directly behind the pet as this will add unwanted glare. Typically pet photos are best taken without a flash. The exception to this would be if you are photographing a pet with dark fur. Just a couple pictures taken with the flash on can help give definition to  a dark pets features and fur.

3. The background itself really shouldn't matter too much - unless your asking me to paint it into the portrait. Light colored pets typically work best on darker (but not black) backgrounds while dark pets would work best on lighter (but not white) backgrounds.
 
4. Try to take the photo at eye level with your pet to create a more appealing portrait.

5. Be patient. I know how hard it is to photograph a pet. It seems they'll do whatever you ask until you get the camera out. But remember, our pets can sense when we are frustrated and this will be relayed in their expression and body language. Just take your time and try to take as many different photographs as possible. If you have another friend or family member that your pet is comfortable with, they can help hold and entertain your pet during the photo shoot. Don't worry if you can see the person in the shot as I will edit this out during painting.

6. Consider the expression you would like to be portrayed in your painting. Does your dog perk up and get that oh so adorable look when it is treat time or is it his cute overbite that you love you so much?  Does kitty look like the sweetest angel when she is being petted or is it the mischevious glint in her eye that she gets during play time that first come to mind?  Each pet has their own unique personality that only you know best. Try to capture this during your photo shoot by doing activities that you would naturally do with your pet.


Remember to have fun with photographing your pet! This whole process should be an enjoyable process for all involved. And remember that you don't have to be a professional photographer to take a great photo of your beloved family member either.  Essentially, I need an up-close picture of their face (no flash) and then a picture of the pose and expression you would like portrayed in the photograph. The more photographs you can supply me the better - so feel free to send me all fifty photos you snapped. Let me know if their is a particular photograph you prefer and after review them I can tell you if I think it will make a great painting or if there is another I think will be better. My goal is to create a beautiful portrait that captures the essence of your pet that you will cherish for a lifetime. I'm not happy until you are, so the more specific you are about what you want, the more specific I can be about what I can do. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have. I look forward to all inquiries!

*If you are not the photographer I will need a signed release from those who snapped the picture as I do not intend to violate any copyright laws. When dealing with art and photography, even if not specifically stated, each piece is automatically protected under copyright laws and it is up to the creator of these paintings and photographs to release them for reproduction purposes. Remember, if you have any questions- just ask.