Photography Tips
Choosing A Good Photograph
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The better the photo, the better the drawing. Make sure your photos are clear and in focus with good lighting. Head & shoulder shots that fill the photo are best! A 5"x7" or 8"x10" studio photo is best, but clear snapshots will work if the image is large enough. Your photos will be returned to you with the drawing.
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Close enough but out of focus
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Nice expression,
detail good and clear
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Too dark, too small and subject's eyes are closed
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Taking your own photos
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Get close to the subject:
Fill the photograph with their head & shoulders. Use a zoom lens to get close or stand 2 to 3 feet from the subject if your camera will focus that close. Take a close photograph of each person separately. I can draw them together.
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Use natural lighting:
Take your subject outside if possible. Flash photography that is too close can wash out the features of your subject's face. Have the subject sit sideways to the sun. Back lighting will cause the face to be in shadow. Front lighting will cause the subject to squint. Use flash outdoors if lighting is poor.
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Use contrasting background:
If the subject is dark, place them in front of a white background. If the subject is light, place them in front of a dark background.
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Clearly focus your subject:
I can draw only what I see. If the subject is out of focus it will be difficult to draw a close likeness. I may reject the commission if the photos are inadequate.
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Get down to the level of your subject:
If you are photographing small children or pets raise them to your level or get down on your knees to their level. You may need an assistant to help keep the subject still and looking at the camera.
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Use a good camera:
A good 35mm camera will work best. If your camera does not take good photographs you may need another camera or to hire a professional. The quality of the photograph effects the quality of the drawing. You will want to provide the best photographs you can.
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Take many poses:
Take 6-12 shots of each subject in various poses and different lighting. The more choices you have the better your chances of getting one satisfactory photograph. E-mail me your photographs for approval if you are not sure they will make a good portrait.
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