Tips for Choosing the Best Reference Photos for Custom Pet Portraits

On this blog, I will share some tips on how to choose great pictures for custom pet portraits. When artists paint, they first need reference photos to work with. How the photo looks can have a huge impact on the final project.

1. Good Lighting
   Natural light works best! Try to take photos in soft daylight to avoid harsh shadows or overexposed areas.

2. Clear Image (Not Blurry)
   A sharp, high-resolution photo helps capture details like fur texture, eye color, and unique markings.

3. Close-Up Half-Body or Headshot
   A closer shot, rather than a full-body image, ensures the portrait focuses on your pet’s expressions and details.

4. Imagine How the Photo Will Look as a Painting
   Choose a photo with a flattering angle and composition that would translate well into art.

5. Full Face, No Cropping on the Edges
   Make sure the entire face and ears are visible, with no important features cut off.

6. Background Contrast
   A simple, uncluttered background helps the pet stand out, making it easier for artists to capture details.

7. Eye Contact & Expression
   A photo where the pet is making eye contact or has an expressive pose can make the portrait feel more engaging and personal.

8. Multiple Angles
   Taking several photos from different angles can help the artist choose the best one for the portrait.

Here are some great example photos of my German Shepherds:

Here are some bad example photos of my German Shepherds: