WORKING FROM PHOTO'S
A good photograph does not necessarily make a good painting!
It is for this reason that I am happy to take photographs of the subject myself, arranging lighting and pose to make the best reference for your portrait. However, geographically this is not always possible, and if it is of a person, or animal that is no longer with us, then for obvious reasons this is impossible. Therefore, if you are giving me photographs that you have taken, or will be taking if your subject then here are a few things that I look for in a photo that I can refer to to get a good likeness!
It is for this reason that I am happy to take photographs of the subject myself, arranging lighting and pose to make the best reference for your portrait. However, geographically this is not always possible, and if it is of a person, or animal that is no longer with us, then for obvious reasons this is impossible. Therefore, if you are giving me photographs that you have taken, or will be taking if your subject then here are a few things that I look for in a photo that I can refer to to get a good likeness!
Example of what to submit for best results!
Submitted picture showing dog facing viewer
Picture of dog with ideal composition. Looking ahead at camera, alert and engaging. Reflection in eyes is not ideal and needs to be interpreted in painting, so picture taken without flash are essential.
Additional Picture of alternate position / expression.
Good reference to show dog in alternate position and expression
Additional Picture of alternate position / expression.
Good reference for shape of head, and fur colour and texture. Also this picture is taken without flash photography so the colours stay true.
Rough sketch for planning Composition and layout/size
Rough sketch to map our composition of dog and the look in the final painting
Final painting using elements of all pictures
Final painting showing dog off on neutral ground. I chose to paint this in acrylic, as the subject required texture and movement in the fur, which was easier to achieve with a fast drying medium.