Reference Photo Guide

When choosing your pet's photo, keep these few things in mind...
• Is the photo in high quality resolution?
• Is the photo clear and in focus?
• Does the photo show all of your pet's details?
• Has the photo been taken in natural light?
• Are the colour of your pet's eyes,
fur and nose true to it's natural colour?
• Is the angle correct and your pet is in proportion?

Capturing all the details

I just love to capture your pet's personality when I'm working on their portrait! Whether they're playful or just like to curl up in their favourite spot...you know your pet best when they're the most happy.
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When taking their photo, try and get down to their eye level and engage with them. Another tip is to hold a treat up at the camera or their favourite toy. You'd be surprised at how much they will pose for the camera when they know they'll get a reward!
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Another tip is to make sure you're not too far away. The more of your pet's details you capture, the more details I can see and add to their portrait. 
Having said that, it's best not to let them get too close either.
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Natural Light

The best way for me to see your pet's true fur colour, is with natural daylight. When a house light is on for example, it can make the fur appear to have a funny tinted colour. Try and let in as much natural light as you can, or you can even take your pet's photo outside (if possible).
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Again, try to avoid direct sunlight on your pet. As this can have the same effect and change the colour of your pet's fur. 
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Filters

Filters can be fun effects to make photos appear differently. We've all been guilty of using them.
 
For me to be able to capture your pet's true fur/eye/nose colour...I need to have the photo without filters.
 
The eyes for me, are the most important part of your pet's face. It's what makes the portrait come alive! So I want to be able to capture those eyes with the correct colours.

Angles/Proportion

Another tip to remember is to avoid aiming your camera down at your pet. This can make your pet's body look out of proportion.
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The best way to make sure your pet's head is in proportion with it's body, is to get down to the level of your pet. This will ensure that your pet's portrait will look correct once it's on paper.

Pets that have passed away

If your pet has passed away, then my heart goes out to you. I know that this can be a very emotional time.
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I completely understand that photos may be limited. So please don't worry. You can send me any photos you have of your pet and we'll work through them together to pick out the best one.
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If you're still unsure...
you're welcome to send me multiple photos via email
and I can look through them and give you my professional opinion.

layceart@gmail.com