Pet & Animal Art.
Always a favourite subject, and extremely popular for commissions. A portrait of the family pet can make a very special gift for family and loved ones.
Commissioning a Painting
I prefer to work in watercolour, and tend to paint in a loose & contemporary style. The work is detailed and reflects a lifelike representation of the subject.
As each and every customer’s requirements are varied and unique, once I’ve received a selection of photographs for your commission I will talk through your requirements for the finished picture. I will keep you updated on progress once I’ve started the commission. I will only take payment when you are completely happy with the finished painting.
The price quoted for your original artwork will be unmounted & unframed, allowing you the freedom to choose your own mount and frame to suit your particular requirement.
Payment can be made by:
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Bank Transfer
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Paypal
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Cash
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Cheque
Tips for getting a good picture of your pet.
1. The best place to take a photograph of your pet is outdoors. Not only is the light good, they will be more relaxed and happier in this environment. However, indoor photos can work well but ensure you have a good source of natural light hitting the side or front of your model.
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Experiment in a few locations; take a few snaps outside and then try catching your pet in their favourite location within the house.
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Animals are suspicious of cameras, so they need to be relaxed and happy when photographed to capture their natural personality.
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The best time to take advantage of the natural light in the house or outside is either early morning, late afternoon or on a cloudy day when the sun is not so bright. Avoid shooting directly into the sun.
2. Capture your pet’s attention. If you require your subject to look at the camera, put them in the right position and once they are still, encourage your pet to look, this can be done by showing a treat or calling their name.
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Another person can help by holding a treat in the direction you want your pet to look. Speak in an up-tone voice so your pet will look happy and excited in the photograph.
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To get your pet to look at the lens, you can use a treat or a squeaky toy. Hold it with one hand next to the lens. Squeezing the toy a few times will gain your pets attention.
3. Take your picture low to the ground. To get an interesting photograph, try positioning yourself on your knees or on your stomach so you are at their level, these make great compositions to work from, be creative! Taking pictures of your subject from several different angles.
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You can also take pictures from various heights. Take some pictures sitting on your knees and take some while you’re lying on your stomach. You can even take some pictures lying on your back with your dog looking down into the camera.
4. For a portrait shot of your pet, start your with taking the still shots, then move on to action shots. Let your dog or cat play while you capture them in action.
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Run around and take shots of your dog whilst clicking away, you’re more likely to catch a shot of your dog looking happy.
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If your pet isn’t cooperating just try again later.
5. Don’t forget to reward your dog with a treat. This will help your dog understand that he is doing the right thing, and photo sessions are a positive thing.