The Right Photograph
Taking photographs is never easy. However, the quality of the photograph I have to draw from, the better the final portrait will be. It is therefore extremely important to supply the clearest and sharpest photo you can. When I have local clients, If local, I have often visited their homes and taken photos myself, although with Covid-19 affecting our lives this last year I have had to rely more and more on clients supplying the photos themselves.
If you have a digital camera, this would be the preferred method, although you can also get some fabulous photos with smart phones as they are improving more and more - I have taken some great photos with mine! I will, of course, discuss photos with you and will tell you if the quality isn’t right - please don’t feel defeated if I ask you to take more as this is a two-way process. The light and position of the subject is the most important part of a great photo; I have noted a few tips below:
Light - I have drawn many black labs in my time! All black animals are extremely difficult to photograph as they show very little definition and can appear very flat. Natural daylight is best - please avoid direct sunlight as this can give false colouring and squinting! If a sunny day, take a shot in the shade. Flashes are an absolute no-no and this causes red-eye, therefore no character!
Position - This is also important. Taking a photo of an animal or a person from above can make them look distorted. Also, taking a photo ‘straight on’ can make them look a little flat. I find the best position is being slightly lower than the subject, or if you are at the same level, take the photo slightly off centre. This is relatively easy if your subject is a person or horse, but if a small animal, perhaps have them sitting on a table. Try and get as close as you can, especially ensuring the eyes are clear. As the artist, the most important element of the drawing for likeness is the eyes - if they are not clear it is very difficult to see the true character.
When - Please, if possible, give me a month lead time when commissioning me to draw your loved one or pet. More if you have 2 or more subjects. This will give us time to get the right photo. Don’t stress about getting the right photo to be drawn in one shoot; animals and children especially get tired and bored if you are spending too much time snapping away at them. If they have had enough, stop and try again another day. I love to draw subjects with a natural pose, so do try a few of these too. Most importantly, have fun!
REMEMBER, THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPH RESULTS IN THE PERFECT PORTRAIT!
