To create the best possible painting, I need the best possible photo.

 

The photos which are the best to paint from are:

 

- high resolution, taken on a digital camera and not a phone camera (this allows me to get the most lifelike painting possible)

 

- fairly close up, so plenty of detail can be seen (especially the eyes and nose)

 

- preferably taken outside (this avoids camera flash and red eye and shows the colour of their fur better) or next to a window with the pet facing the light from the window

 

- not taken in strong sunlight as the pet will squint and dark shadows will be created

 

- with nothing obscuring any part of the face 

 

- at eye level as it looks the most natural 

 

- usually portraits work best as head and shoulders but if full body is required please photograph your pet on a blanket, so that paws can be seen and aren't hidden by grass

 

It is worth taking literally up to 100 photos to get a really perfect one!  It's helpful to send a few, indicating which you feel is closest to the true colouring.  I work mostly from one but it can be useful to have others which may show different details of eyes, ears etc.  

 

The other thing to consider is the background colour. I like to use one solid colour which complements your pet's colourings.  Just let me know if you have something in mind or I can give you advice when I see the photos.