Commissions All of my animal paintings are hand-painted custom fine art representation of your pet based on photographs. Each painting starts with a personal consultation by phone, email, or in person. Communication is key: You will be involved in the entire process, from the initial consultation, through email photos of the painting in progress and before it is shipped, to make sure it is exactly what you want. There will be no surprises.
Photo GuidelinesI need at least one detailed, clear and close-up photo that shows your pet's personality. Photos must be in focus and at least 3" x5" with your pet as the primary subject filling the photograph. Please bear in mind that the portrait will be a reflection of the photo you provide: I don't “create” poses, nor do I “erase” costumes, scarves, sweaters, people, furniture or other objects or guess what your pet’s underlying fur looks like. If you send more than one photo, please indicate the pose you would like in the portrait. Your pet’s eyes and nose are particularly crucial; your photograph must show the eyes clearly with accurate color. High resolution, digital photographs are preferred (jpg format /at least 300 dpi). Do NOT Send original photographs in the mail, as they may be lost; prints will be returned with your portrait(s). Choose an environment that won't camouflage your pet: photograph light-colored pets in front of a dark background, and dark-colored pets in front of light backgrounds. Images with bright colors and good light will yield the best portraits. How to take a good photo of your petLighting It is best to take photos outside in natural light; however, be careful not to take photos with the sun behind you, as it will cause shadows. If you cannot take your pet's photo outside, the next best option is an area with lots of available light so you do not have to use a flash. A room with lots of windows, often a sunroom or dining room, works wonderfully for this purpose. If you must use a flash, get it as far away from your lens as possible, or even better, use a flash with a swivel head. If you cannot remove your flash from your camera or use a bounce flash, tape a piece of cheesecloth over your flash to diffuse the light from the flash and reduce the chance of red/green eye. PosingWhile most traditional portraits include just the pet in the image with the pet looking straight at the photographer, this can lead to a boring image. Taking a few moments to think about your pet's personality can make all the difference in your images. Try to take the photo at your pet’s level—kneel, sit or lie down to take the shot. The most important thing you can do to capture you pet's personality is work on his/her time. Your pet may need time to calm down when brought into a new situation, so be prepared to give your pet the time he/she needs to relax. If you have an outdoor pet, be sure to select a place with an uncluttered background. Also, control how far your pet can roam. If your pet is an indoor one, then select an area where you have a pleasing background. Is your cat aloof and above it all? Does your dog like soda? Incorporate your pet's personality into the props and poses you choose. Put a can of soda next to your dog. Have your large dog stand up and your tiny dog sit underneath his/her belly to show the size difference. Get their attention with a favorite toy, a whistle, horn, clacker, or a can of pennies. Call the animal’s name. If you can recruit a second person to help keep the pet's attention, your job will be considerably easier as well. And don’t forget treats—as all pet owners know, bribes are powerful motivators. Don't make your pet come to you. Go to them, so that they feel at ease. Ready to get started? Call or email me now!
Please browse through my Gallery, and do not hesitate to email me with any questions. Emily Griffith |
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