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The ideal reference photo for your pet portrait

The better the reference photo, the more accurate your pet's portrait. Here you find a quick guide to help you take the perfect reference photo, or to choose the ideal photo from your photo library.

01

Lighting

Take your photos in daylight, ideally near a window or outdoors, and have your pet facing sidewards to the light. This helps create contrast between light and shadow areas around their head which allows for an expressive monochrome portrait.

02

Angle

Get eye-level shots. This can be done by kneeling or lowering yourself to your pet’s level. Eye-level shots create a more engaging and flattering perspective, and it helps to focus on their unique expressions.

03

Focus

Make sure your pet is in sharp focus, especially their eyes. This helps me capture their likeness accurately.

04

Personality

Photograph your pet in a typical position to ensure the photo captures their natural expression and true personality.

How to share your reference photos

Please email your photographs as attachments to

hello@annalenaouwens.com

Include several photographs

Feel free to include several photos from slightly different angles, so I can get a full picture of your pet. This helps with accuracy.

Share original format

For optimal resolution, please send the photos in their original format, not as screenshotted images.

Tell me about your pet

I’d love to hear what makes your pet unique! This way, I can get to know them better and portray their true character. Share a funny anecdote or some fun facts about your pet! :)

Ready to share your photos?

Click below to send them to me.

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