Photographing your pet

 

 

Reference photos of your pet

 

I work from reference photos of your pet, either digital photos sent online, or mailed snapshots. Natural light, and clear, detailed, high resolution images are ideal. It is difficult to work from tiny images or photographs that are blurry or have low detail. If you are not sure, send the photo and I will let you know if it is usable. Snapshots are scanned to my computer and returned to you. If you want to use professional photos, you need permission from the photographer to use his image for a painting.

 

Tips for Photographing your Pet

 

It can be a challenge to capture the expression you’d like of your pet. They may feel uneasy being photographed, or be difficult to keep still. Here are some tips to make the experience of photographing your pet easier and more successful.

 

  Choosing the scene

 

   The best place to photograph pets is in an area where they are most comfortable so        they'll be relaxed.  Keep the background as clutter-free as possible, so the focus is on        your pet, although I can eliminate unwanted clutter or change the background in the      painting if needed. Get up close to your pet to take your shot for better detail. 

 

   The Shot

 

   Before taking your shot, take a minute or two to help pets relax in their setting.

   In general, get on your pet’s eye level. Shooting from above can sometimes result in an     awkward view of them, although you may love that photo of them looking up at you.       There are beautiful photos that break the rules, so take lots of photos from different         perspectives, the more variety the better for painting reference. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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   Sometimes posing is best, and sometimes candid shots, so experiment.

   You usually want your pet to be look happy. They look happiest when their ears are up      and eyes wide open. To accomplish this you might say things that pique their interest,      (“Who's that?”, “Where’s the kitty?”), funny noises, squeaky toys, whatever works. Use          treats, praise, and/or a favorite toy to encourage cooperative behavior. If you are             frustrated, they'll sense it, and it will reflect in their expression.

   Have a helper if it's difficult to be both the photographer and the handler at the same      time.  If you want your pet to look toward the camera, have your assistant stand               behind, or close to the photographer, not off to the side. If pets won't cooperate,

   give them a break and try again later.

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​   Lighting
 

   Outdoor photos are best taken in earlier morning or later afternoon. The light is less        harsh and will add some dimension to your pet's features. Mid-day sun can wash out        pet's coloring and features. The sun should be to the side or 3/4 view, so it’s not               directly in your pet’s eyes.

   The best indoor light is near a bright window or a well lit room. Avoid using a flash, as it    washes out detail and causes green-eye (like red-eye in people) when the flash reflects      off the back of the eye. Below is an example of a painting done from a photo with            several problems, too bright light, low detail, and clutter, although I did get a nice            painting from it. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   With patience you will be able to get some great photos.​​ 

 

   If your pet has passed, just provide all the photos you can. I scan them into my                  computer and then return them to you.