Reference Photo Tips
Photo references are an important part of the commission process. There is a lot that goes into finding the perfect reference for a project, so you are more than welcome to email me with any questions you might have. A better reference = better art!
​
The following is based on pet portrait references, but is applicable to any project.
​
What makes a good reference photo?
- Natural lighting​
- Full face or full body is in frame
- Colors are as accurate as possible
- Large resolution
​
Most modern smartphones have cameras that are more than capable of taking high quality photos. DSLR cameras will provide the largest and highest quality photos, but they are not essential for most projects.
​
If you would like your portrait to include a specific background or your pet in a particular pose, keep that in mind while looking for references. Sometimes the single, perfect photo doesn't exist- and that's okay! I am able to work from multiple photos if needed. Less is more.
​
I can work from paper copies of photos as well if that is what's available. I would recommend scanning the photo at a resolution of 300 dpi.
​
Avoid photos taken with flash! While the flash may cause the photo to appear higher quality, the natural contrast is reduced and the final artwork will not look as realistic. This is especially important for pets that have black hair. The flash will also impact the look of the eyes.
​
Examples
​
Below are photos of my own dog, Bailey.
​
Both of these photos would be great references. The left photo shows a good composition and natural lighting. While the photo on the right is from a unique perspective, the lighting is natural and it would be ideal for a face-only portrait.
Back-lit photos can be challenging to work from because the face is very dark. However, if the resolution is high enough, it is not impossible to work from a photo like this.
While this photo is also back-lit, the colors of the face are accurate and natural.
Indoor photos can also be used with the right conditions. This photo would be great for a face-only portrait. The shadows are not too harsh and the colors are fine.
This photo is too dull and the lighting is poor, especially on the head. If you wouldn't hang your photo on the wall, then it likely isn't an appropriate reference.
While the lighting isn't strong in this photo, the pose and composition are ideal for a painting or drawing. The colors are accurate and the resolution is high enough to work from.
Photos taken with flash may cause pet hair to appear too smooth, or even blurry, as seen in the left photo. While the flash causes the hair to appear silky and shiny, as in the right photo, this is not how Bailey's hair looks in real life. The eyes are also obviously impacted by the flash, and more references would be needed to work with these photos.
Final Thoughts
Reference photos will vary depending on what you are looking for in a piece of artwork. Before deciding on a commission, I can always be reached by email with input on references and can give recommendations based on your specific ideas. I hope this helps clarify the process of taking and choosing reference photos!