How to take the best photos:
To produce a true likeness of your pet I need a good quality photograph. As head and shoulders make the best studies, the photograph should be a good clear close up of head and shoulders and especially the eyes and nose and not the whole body and without lots of background.
If possible take the photographs outside on a day that is not too bright. Bright direct sunlight bleaches the colour and produces deep shadows. The best colour matches and details are captured in natural light on days that are hazy, with the sun light coming from the side and front. If a pet needs to be photographed indoors don’t use flash, as this will give unnatural shading and deadens the colour. You may also get red-eye and I will not then be able to paint a realistic eye.
Try not to photograph a dog on a hot day or after a walk as they are often panting and a picture showing the tongue and teeth will draw the attention away from the eyes. Set your camera to the highest resolution possible.
Take the photograph from the pet’s eye level. A picture taken looking down on the pet does not make a very good composition. Use the zoom where possible to concentrate on the face with out being too intrusive to the pet. A three quarters view makes a better picture than one taken straight on or a side view. Working with somebody else to distract the pet or get their attention often works. Try and get a pose that captures your pet’s personality. Have patience, pets don’t always want to co-operate, I often take a hundred photos and end up with a dozen I can work from.
I only need a digital image and can print the picture myself. Please send your favourite images and we can decide together which one to use. Alternatively if you live in or near North Devon and would like me to, I can come and photograph the animal myself. joanna@joannamiln.co.uk