Pet Portraits

Working from photographs of animals

As with Portraits, good photographs to work from are essential, – the quality of the portrait depends on such photos.

The best possible lighting conditions are necessary ie; outside (but not in direct sunlight) as this causes the animal to squint and can cause shadows. Inside, near a window is also suitable. The light source must come from behind the camera. Flash photography is to be avoided because the bright flash eliminates the subtle shadows that create the 3D effect.

Photos should be taken as close as possible with the subject filling the view finder so Judy can get such details as eye colour etc. The best photos are taken at the pet’s eye level. A side view is the desired pose rather than front on. They should be true to colour and express the pet’s character.

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