The creation of a perfect custom artwork starts long before the first brush stroke hits the canvas.
The secret behind getting the ideal custom portrait done is capturing the perfect reference photo for pet artwork.
A clear, well-lit and expressive photo of your pets would allow the artist to capture them exactly the way you wish. Upon it, the quality and expression of your portrait will depend entirely.
Here are 15 practical and simple tips for you to follow while planning and capturing the reference photo for your pet’s portrait.
1. Use natural light whenever possible.
Capturing your pet in the sunlight, or at least in a sunlit room, is the best way to get a perfect reference photo for your pet portrait painting.
If it is not possible to shoot in an external setting, try to take your pictures near a window. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best time periods for conducting the photoshoot.
2. Avoid using flash
Using flash during photography can take away strong details from your pet’s photo, create red eyes and wash out the natural colours of their body.
It is best to get a clear and evenly lit image, which can help the artist see the true colours and textures of your pet’s body.
3. Focus on the eyes
Eyes are the most important feature to capture in your pet’s portrait, as they express the pet’s true persona.
Make sure the eyes come out sharp in your reference photo. You can tap on the eyes on your phone screen before taking the photo for the best focus.
4. Get down to their level.
Shoot your pet from eye level rather than at a downward angle. This will give a natural angle to the artwork as well, and the moment captured will feel more personal, giving the portrait a more lifelike feel.
5. Choose a simple background.
A background with too many crowds or a busy ambience can distract your focus from your pet. It is better to choose a plain, monochromatic or harmonious background, like a wall, trees, or curtains.
6. Capture their natural expression.
While doing the photoshoot, try to encourage your pet to play around and pose spontaneously rather than getting them to stand or sit stiffly.
Authentic expressions make pet portraits more meaningful and memorable, and hence it is good to let your pet relax in a way they are comfortable for them.
7. Ensure a high-resolution capture.
Taking a high-resolution photo is important for your artwork to be detailed enough. Try to capture the photo on a digital camera, or at best, a quality smartphone, to ensure your artwork can capture your pet faithfully.
8. Clearly show your pet’s face.
Make sure that your pet’s full face is captured in the reference photo. Unless you capture their face from a good angle where there are no shadows, and capture all their features, your artwork will not have a lifelike feel.
9. Highlight their unique features.
If your pet has a special feature, like a spot on their nose, multicoloured eyes or extra curly fur somewhere on their body, make sure to capture it in the reference image. This will make the artwork more authentic and personal.
10. Ensure a non-blurry result.
Remember to keep your camera steady while capturing the photo for your artwork, especially if your pet is in action. This will ensure the result is not blurry and clear enough for the artist to understand your pet’s exact features.
11. Keep backup shots
One shot is not enough for reference, as you may not like the result afterwards, or the artist may be unable to capture it. Keep 2-3 different shots handy for the reference image so both you and the artist can get a variety to choose from.
12. Avoid heavy editing
Filters and editing tools can change the colour and texture of your pet’s appearance, which can compromise the authenticity of your artwork. Hence, it is best to use minimal editing on the reference photo.
13. Choose the right pose.
While a sitting pose may work for a formal look, a playful stance can reflect energy. A close-up shot, on the other hand, is perfect for capturing facial expressions. Think about how exactly you want your pet to be captured and choose accordingly.
14. Groom your pet before the shoot.
You can add fun, playful details like caps, hats, dresses, shoes or sunglasses to your pet’s outfit to capture a memorable image. Make sure that your pet is neat and clean as well, to make the artwork look more polished.
Must Read: 6 Pet Photoshoot Ideas for Your Pet Portrait
15. Capture some emotion and persona.
The best portraits are not just visually perfect, but also carry emotional value. While taking the photo, you can try calling your pet’s name or giving them a treat, which can make the artwork even more memorable.
Conclusion
A clear, well-lit and expressive reference photo helps to bring out the true persona and exact details of your pet in the final artwork, making it more lifelike and memorable.
Taking a little extra time to click the photo by following these simple tips can ensure that the quality of your pet portrait remains top-notch.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best lighting for a pet portrait reference photo?
Sunlight in an outdoor setting or a naturally lit room is the best. Early mornings and late afternoons give balanced brightness for clarity.
Q2. Is one reference photo enough?
It is highly recommended to have 2-3 backup shots for your reference image, so that both you and the artist get some variety to choose from.
Q3. Can an old, slightly blurry photo work as a reference image?
It is best to take a fresh, high-resolution shot before painting your pet portrait, as it allows the artist to express maximum clarity with perfect details.
