How to Photograph Your Pet for a Portrait
To create a portrait that truly captures your pet’s personality, I rely on high-quality reference photos. Here are a few easy tips to help you take photos that lead to great results. Once you’ve taken great photos, learn how to commission a portrait.
Eye level
Aim for shots at your pet’s eye level, around 6 feet away or closer, fostering a genuine connection by aligning the camera lens with their height.
Natural Lighting
Choose natural light whenever possible for optimal photo quality, whether streaming in from outdoors or through a window,
Avoid Backlighting
When shooting outdoors, ensure the sun is not positioned directly behind your pet to prevent shadows and overexposure.
Framing
Capture specific expressions with close-ups or headshots, or showcase your pet’s size and posture with full-body shots, offering a complete portrait.
Clarity
Maintain clear photos by minimizing movement from both you and your pet during the session, using a stable surface or tripod to prevent blurriness.
Multiple Photos
Sending multiple photos increases our chances of accurately capturing your pet’s individuality.
Avoid Filters or Portrait Mode
Don't use filters, soft focus, or "portrait mode" on smartphones — they often blur the edges or details that are important for creating a lifelike portrait.
Capture their Personality
Try taking photos when your pet is doing something they love — chasing a ball, snuggling, or sitting at their favorite window. These moments help me paint with more character and emotion.