Backgrounds
Your photograph
might contain a background which you don’t neccessarily want in your
painting. This is no problem as it can be easily taken out. A plain background
will also generally give the painting a more contemporary feel. If, however,
you feel that the setting is essential (maybe it’s your pet’s favourite
place) then it’s no problem to paint it in. This may add an additional
cost depending on complexity of the image and I will be happy to quote you
once I have seen your photographs. All pictures will of course be returned.
You might
like to be in the painting too. Why not have yourself immortalised in oils
along with your pet. Contact me for advice.
Photographing
your pet
When photographing your pet try to avoid using a flash. Flashlights generally
kill any natural shadows and will take away depth from the image whilst bleaching
some areas out. It may pay to get a bit closer than you normally would when
taking your pictures too. It is much easier to create a truly stunning portrait
from a detailed photograph than from one taken at a distance. I always endeavour
to capture the true nature of your pet and any quirks that he or she has. Does
your pet have a particular facial expression for example? Maybe he or she likes
to sit in a specific pose. A painting of your dog with his favourite bone can
really help to add personality. If you have any concerns regarding photography
then I will be pleased to advise.
Traditional
Contemporary
Examples
of good and bad photography
This
photo is taken too far away from the subject and there is a lack of detail due
to this. The camera flash has also killed all the natural shadows and effectively
flattened the image. The eyes have become bleached out also due to the camera
flash.
Good
Bad
This
photo was taken nice and close to the subject showing plenty of detail. The
light is natural and therefore the shadows give good volume to the image. The
viewpoint is also down at the cats level. See the
finished painting.
