Photography Tips »
Try to get on your pet's level, as if from his point of view. Taking an overhead shot only distorts your animal and gives the illusion his body out of proportion. If you can't get on his level, try setting your pet on a top stair and sitting a few stairs down to take the photograph. Don't have them looking up at you unless you want the completed portrait from that point of view.

Never use a flash. Besides causing your pet's fur and colouration to change in the photograph, it can cause red eye. Only use a flash if your pet is primarily black or very dark, which should help see fine detail.

Natural lighting is always best. Try taking your pet outside on a bright, overcast day. If this isn't possible, try placing your pet near plenty of light caused by open windows. Try and make sure your pet's shadows are thrown to the left or right of him, not directly in front. This makes the commissioned result more interesting.

Clear and higher quality photographs always influence the outcome. Never resize an image if you can help it. Instead, if you can, send it to me exactly the size it would be as if you just downloaded it off your camera.

Don't be afraid to share more then a few photographs of your pet -- share as many as you'd like. In fact, I recommend at least three to five photographs or more for commission work. Try to provide an up close, clear facial shot of your pet as well.

Can't seem to make your pet sit still?. Ask for assistance in holding him. A hand or two around your pet in the image doesn't matter as long as they don't cover any important colouration or markings.

Take pictures of your pet when he's at his best. Try and include his personality!. If your pet is normally hyper and happy go lucky, providing a photograph of him on one of his lazy days isn't ideal. Always point out your favourites. Be sure to note their expression, their general pose.

By submitting any photographs, you are in agreement that if you are not the original photographer you have been given prior permission to let me use the photographs as general reference for your pet portrait commission.