How to Take a Good Photo

 

Lighting

Try to use natural light instead of flash. Photos taken with build-in flash usually look flat and although unnatural reflection in the eyes can be easily corrected on painting, it is rather difficuld to bring the shape back to a flat image. Soft side light is the best to capture the shape of your pet's body. Direct sunlight is better to be avoided as it makes shadows too deep, often with no details.

Camera settings

The "auto" mode on your camera will usually yield good results if you provide adequate lighting, turn off the flash, and take the shot from at least 3 feet away from the subject.

Focus

As long as you are not too close to the subject the auto focus on your camera should work satisfactorily. Most cameras cannot focus on images that are less than 3 feet away. If the light is not bright enough any movement of the subject or photographer can cause blurry image.

Take lots of photos

If your animal is active and constantly on the move try to take as many photos as possible. The more you take the better is the chance to have a couple of good ones.

Still need help?

I am happy to come and take reference photos for the painting. If you live in Central Somerset (Yeovil, Taunton, Bridgewater, Langport, Glastonbury, Street, Wells and surroundings) I will take photos with no extra charge. For other locations I will charge travel costs in addition to painting price.