Photography Hints

A few hints on taking good reference photographs:

1. Take your photograph in natural light and no flash. 
By 'natural' light I mean a soft, diffused light source...no
strong, harsh shadows. I need to be able to see your
subject's gorgeous eyes and face. Being able to make
out details is very important, even more so if your animal
has a dark or black coat. Especially significant for a
'head and shoulder' type portrait is to have them fill the
frame. Most important is not to use the flash feature of
your camera. Using flash will flatten out and destroy all
the lovely details...so remember NO flash!

2. Take LOTS of photos. I mean lots.To get one or two
great reference shots you may have to take a bazillion!
All I need are a few good photos to work from. Now I know
many of your pets or horses may no longer be living and
you won't be able to take new photos. I promise to do my
best with the photos you do have. A written description will
help me greatly in this case. Tell me all you can remember!

3.  Provide me with large photo file sizes! Normally photos
posted on social media sites are compressed and become
smaller. When enlarged to view the details the photos
become pixelated and unclear. Large photo files sent directly
to my email address are best. I can view the photos close up
and get all the fine details.

4.  Small animals are best photographed from their level.
Try taking a few shots from different angles and don't be
afraid to be creative. Taking photos of the animal's face from
the side, front or a 3/4 view will provide the best reference.
Take a sharp, eye level, full face photo is great for a portrait.

5. It helps to have a second person present! That person can
distract the subject with their favorite toy or a treat. There'll be
less anxiety all the way around for some pets. And in the case
of 'in your pocket' type horses, less photos of just noses!

6. Horses are best photographed outside and not inside a dark
stall or dimly lit barn. The one exception to this rule would be
using dramatic lighting of a horse peering out the top half of a stall
door. Should you want a head and shoulder portrait of your
horse (not full body) try not to send far away photos of the horse
grazing. You get the idea, right?

7. I can adjust certain things in your artwork. But it is easier for
me to not have to recreate something that is missing. Good
reference photos are essential. Does your pet have a certain
expression that you love? That expression will make your portrait.

8.  Don't rush! Take your time and enjoy yourself. We are a team
and together I know we'll create something beautiful. I look forward
to working with you! Please send photos and any inquiries to:
info@fullmoonfarm.us