What Photo Do I Need for a Pet Portrait?

You need a clear, well-lit photograph that shows your pet's face and character. Natural daylight is best, taken at your pet's eye level. Even a good phone photo works well - it does not need to be professional.

One of the most common questions Australian pet owners ask before commissioning a portrait is what kind of photo they need to provide. The good news is that it is simpler than most people expect. A hand-painted portrait is created from your photographs, so the better the reference, the truer the likeness - but you do not need a professional shoot. A thoughtful phone photo is usually perfect.

What makes a good reference photo

• Good natural light. Photograph your pet in soft daylight, near a window or outside in shade. Avoid harsh midday sun and flash, which flatten features.
• Eye level. Get down to your pet's height rather than shooting from above. It captures their expression far more naturally.
• Face and character. The face is the heart of the portrait. A clear view of the eyes and expression matters most.
• In focus and close enough. A sharp, reasonably close photo gives the detail needed to capture your pet truly.

Your photo does not need to be perfect

Do not worry if you do not have a flawless image. Leah has painted beautiful portraits from ordinary phone snaps. What matters is that the photo captures something of your pet - their look, their character, the tilt of the head you know so well. If you are unsure whether a photo will work, send it through and Leah will let you know.

For memorial portraits

When a pet has passed, you can only work with the photos you have, and they may be older or imperfect. That is completely understood. Leah paints memorial portraits from whatever photographs you have, and can often combine several to capture the truest likeness. The portrait becomes a lasting tribute made from the memories you kept.

Can you send more than one photo?

Yes, and it often helps. If no single photo captures your pet perfectly, send a few - one for the face, one for their colouring, one for a favourite expression - and Leah will use them together. More reference gives her more to work from in capturing the animal you love.