Animal
Spirit
Updated 31st Aug 2010
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Photography tips
The basis of a good pet portrait is a good photograph. Below are some simple tips for taking a great picture. But don’t despair if you think your photo isn’t good enough, I can often create something special from a poor photo. See my Photo-to-Portrait examples.
The basis of a good pet portrait is a good photograph. Below are some simple tips for taking a great picture. But don’t despair if you think your photo isn’t good enough, I can often create something special from a poor photo. See my Photo-
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Set your digital camera to high quality image (300 dpi) instead of the default 72 dpi. Mobile phones rarely take good enough pictures.
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Photograph outdoors if possible, in good light conditions, without flash. Bright sunlight often causes squinting and creates strong shadows that reduce the detail I can see, so a bright overcast day is better. If you can’t get outside, try to position the subject near a window for as much natural daylight as possible, but not in direct sunlight.
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Get down to their eye level because a good view of the eyes is really important. Lie on the ground if necessary!
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Use a zoom lens if you have one. This allows you to take the photo from a distance – you are less likely to have your pet run up to you and you will achieve a more natural expression.
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Ensure that the area you want painted almost fills the viewfinder and is in focus.
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Don’t worry about what’s in the background – that will be edited out.
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Enlist the help of someone (plus toys or treats) to position the animal’s head where you want it and get a lively expression.
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Need help? Georgina is based in Southampton, Hampshire, UK. If you live within about 30 miles of Southampton, she can take a photograph for you free of charge and she loves to meet her subjects. Contact her for details. She is also happy to give advice over the phone.
Good photo - the face is clear and evenly lit to give lots of detail.
Poor photo - it doesn’t matter about the background, but the head is a very small area of the picture so will not give much detail when enlarged. Also the camera position is a bit high.
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