The Pawfect Reference Photo

I've been blessed with a dog that loves to pose" — Christina Crook "Life is a dogwalk and the world is your runway" —Toffee Crook

Now that you've completed your Pawtrait Order form and paid your deposit, it's time to choose your reference photo! A great reference photo enables me to capture the beauty of your pet as a pet portrait. It can feel like a daunting task to select the perfect picture from your camera roll or to specifically take a new photo for the reference photo. Here is a checklist to help:

Taking the perfect reference photo

The checklist:

• Take the photo in bright, natural lighting.

• Is it in focus? — your pet’s facial features should look nice, sharp and clear. 

• Have you considered the composition? Do you like your pet’s expression, their position? Do you like the way the light falls on your baby and picks out the beautiful colours of their fur?

The example I have included above I personally love, I think the composition is fabulous, the lighting dramatic, and there is lots of lovely visible detail that I can work into the pawtrait. However, if you are not a fan of lots of shadows or dynamic lighting then please bear that in mind when you make your choice. Additionally, if you want a full body pawtrait as opposed to focused on the face, you will need to specify and this will cost more.

Are you still having trouble?

Reference Photo Service

Are you a Tooting Common local and you are struggling to get a good picture of your pooch?

Try a private photo session with the artist for just £50. With the help of determination and treats, I pride myself on getting good pictures.

If you do feel it necessary to send multiple reference photos for me to choose from please keep it to a limit of three and bear in mind this will slow down the process.

Some great Reference Photo examples: