Pet portraits are a beautiful way to capture the unique personality of our beloved animals, turning cherished moments into lasting artwork. At Birdyhome, we know that a great portrait starts with a great photo, and you’d be surprised at just how much the quality and style of the photo can impact the final result. Here are our top tips to help you choose the perfect photo for a stunning custom pet portrait.
1. Go for Natural Lighting
When it comes to capturing your pet, natural lighting is truly your best friend. Photos taken outdoors or near a large window in natural light generally provide the clearest, truest colours without harsh shadows or yellow tones. If you're inside, try taking the photo close to a window during the day to let in as much soft, natural light as possible. Avoid using a flash, as it can create red-eye and may wash out your pet’s lovely features.
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2. Get Close and Personal
A great pet portrait captures the details that make your pet unique, whether it’s a speckled nose, fluffy ears, or striking eyes. To ensure these details shine, get up close for the shot – either physically or by zooming in slightly. A well-composed close-up that captures your pet's face and upper body will help us translate their expression, personality, and little quirks into watercolour art. A clear, focused close-up photo will make it easier for us to bring out every detail in the final painting.
This photo would work really well when made into an illustration and we can even add a bespoke background for you.
3. Focus on Your Pet’s Personality
Every pet has its own little quirks, so choosing a photo that reflects their true character is key. If your dog has a playful, lively personality, choose a photo that shows them with a bit of bounce or a cheeky expression. If your cat is more reserved and dignified, a calm, serene shot will do them justice. Think about what you love most about your pet – whether it’s their sleepy eyes, funny smile, or curious gaze – and try to capture that in the photo.
This is a great example of your pet's personality shining through!
4. Keep It Sharp and Clear
Clarity is essential for a great pet portrait, so a sharp, high-resolution photo is ideal. Avoid blurry photos as these can make it difficult to capture your pet’s finer details accurately. For mobile phone shots, make sure you’re holding your phone steady and allow your camera a moment to focus before snapping. If you're using a DSLR, ensure that you’re set up with a fast enough shutter speed to capture any sudden movement – especially handy with wiggly pups or fidgety felines!
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5. Capture Those Eyes
The eyes are the windows to the soul, and for pet portraits, they’re often the focal point. Try to capture your pet with their eyes looking towards the camera. This gives the portrait a stronger emotional connection, drawing attention to your pet’s expression and personality. Even a slightly tilted head or a direct gaze can transform a portrait, so take a moment to get their attention – a favourite treat or toy often does the trick!
We're always happy to have multiple pets in one cherished illustration.
6. Take Multiple Shots
Pets aren’t always easy to photograph, so don’t worry if you don’t get the perfect shot right away. Take multiple photos from different angles and in different poses, and choose the best one, or send a few to us and we can help you choose the final one. This gives you options and increases your chances of finding the perfect photo that captures your pet's charm and personality.
At Birdyhome, we believe every pet has its own story and personality, and a good photo helps us bring that out in a beautiful watercolour portrait. Follow these tips, and we’ll work with you to create a portrait that you’ll cherish forever. Happy snapping!