Custom Oil Painting - Wedding Portrait - Pet Portrait - Anniversary Gift - Custom Portrait - Family Portrait

Email me before ordering here:

paigesquinn@gmail.com 

a $100 deposit is required before getting started with sketches of the finished composition

In your email, include picture options based on the qualities listed below, a date estimate for when you would like the work, a size based on those available here, style based on those available here, as well as any other details you would like to include like framing etc. 

I will paint you and/or your loved ones be they human or animal. Please contact me prior to purchase to make sure references and timeline works for me and you. Always send multiple photos, between 3-7 is a good place to start. It is likely only 1 will stand out as the best reference photo.

- A good reference picture for painting a portrait should possess the following qualities:

1. Clear and Sharp: The reference photo should have clear details and sharp focus, allowing you to see the subject's features, textures, and subtle nuances accurately.

2. Good Lighting: Adequate and even lighting is crucial. Harsh shadows or extreme highlights can obscure important details and make it challenging to capture the subject's true likeness.

3. High Resolution: Opt for high-resolution images that provide ample pixel density. This allows you to zoom in and capture intricate details more effectively, ensuring precision in your painting.

4. Proper Composition: Look for a reference photo with a well-balanced composition. Consider the subject's positioning, background elements, and overall framing. A pleasing composition will enhance the overall impact of your portrait.

5. Natural Colors: The colors in the reference photo should appear natural and realistic. Avoid heavily filtered or excessively edited images that distort the subject's true skin tones or coloration.

6. Multiple Angles: Having access to multiple reference photos of the same subject from different angles can be beneficial. It allows you to capture different aspects of the person's likeness and choose the most flattering angle for your portrait.

7. Facial Expressions: If you're aiming to depict a specific expression or mood, choose a reference photo that conveys it effectively. Look for facial expressions that capture the essence of the person and reflect their personality.

8. Authenticity: Authentic and unposed photos can help capture the subject's genuine personality and character. Candid shots or relaxed poses often result in more authentic portraits. Posed photos can work as well, but it is subjective. 

9. Detail Clarity: Pay attention to the level of detail visible in the reference photo. Ensure that important facial features, such as eyes, nose, and mouth, are clearly discernible to help you capture accurate proportions and fine details.

10. Emotional Connection: Choose a reference photo that resonates with you emotionally. When you have a personal connection to the subject or find the image intriguing, it can result in a more engaging and expressive portrait.

Note that some artistic alterations are possible, like using a different background (with photo reference), or the hue of a piece of clothing. But large alterations, such as placing two or more separate portraits into the same frame, while also maintain consistent lighting is not always possible. This work to create a new combined reference when necessary will cost extra. The more your reference photo resembles professional photography, the better and more accurate your portrait will be.