HELP AND TIPS
The following information is provided to help you obtain the highest quality results possible. Please, take a moment to read this advice.
CHOOSING PHOTOGRAPHS FOR REFERENCE
Nothing affects the outcome of your portrait more than the photo(s) supplied. Professional photos are a safe choice, but quality amateur photos and snapshots often produce wonderful portraits. (See Shooting Photos below.) The beauty of snapshots can often be their natural, un-posed candid quality. Check your photos and snapshots to include as many of the following recommended features as possible.
1. SHARP FOCUS with plenty of clear facial detail.
2. GOOD LIGHTING.
If photos are so dark that the eyes are obscured, or the hair is only a flat, dark mass, then the drawing will lose impact. Unfortunately, I cannot “make up” what I can’t see.
Photos that are too light, or washed out by direct camera flash, often have an unappealing appearance. The flash causes flattened facial features, loss of necessary detail and unflattering shadows.
Photos can be black and white or color. If the photo is black and white, a written notation as to color of eyes, hair and complexion can accompany the photo if you are requesting a color portrait.
Screened halftones (from printed publications) are likely to produce less than satisfactory results.
I’ll be happy to evaluate your photos for suitability. All photos and materials sent for evaluation or for a project will be returned to the sender in their original condition with their order.
3. NATURALNESS OF POSE AND EXPRESSION.
Informal: Children are often most charming when photographed candidly. This can also be true for informal portraits of adults. It isn’t always necessary that the subject be looking directly at the viewer. You decide what you like best.
Formal: A “three-quarters” pose is usually more appealing than a “square-on” ID pose. The subject is commonly making eye-contact with the viewer. A pleasant, relaxed expression is more naturally appealing in a hand-drawn work of art than a big, toothy smile. The ephemeral nature of a big smile smacks of “photo-reference” and lacks the enduring charm of a more relaxed expression.
4. APPROPRIATE ATTIRE. You be the judge.
SHOOTING PHOTOS FOR REFERENCE
1. AVOID DIRECT FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY! Direct flash will wash out natural shadows. flatten the form, and cause loss of needed detail. An indirect “bounce flash” is okay.
2. 3/4 SIDE LIGHTING gives the best results in helping to define features.
If indoors, place subject with their side near a north window or other indirect lighting source, but do not aim the camera toward the light.
If outdoors on a sunny day, place the subject in full shade. The photographer should take a position with the brightest light coming from their side and somewhat behind. Avoid a situation where the subject is “silhouetted” against a brighter background.
3. FILL UP THE VIEWFINDER WITH THE SUBJECT’S FACE, NECK AND MID-CHEST AREA. Holding the camera for a vertical format utilizes the space better unless shooting two or more subjects.
4. FOR A FORMAL, YET FLATTERING AND NATURAL POSE choose a three-quarter view with the subject making eye contact with the camera lens. (Avoid straight-on poses that look like driver’s license mug shots!)
5. TO MINIMIZE DOUBLE CHIN EFFECT, be sure that the camera is a little higher than the subject’s eye level. If seated, ask the subject to sit on the edge of the chair with good posture rather than lean back. This will assure a more flattering pose.
6. TAKE SEVERAL SHOTS. It’s better to have a number to choose from. Sharp focus is critical, and you’ll want to catch the best expression.
7. PAY ATTENTION TO DETAILS OF CLOTHING. If the subject is wearing glasses, watch for glare off the lenses.
GRAPHIC ELEMENTS
Logos, insignias, crests, etc. may be included to help tell the story of the subject(s). Send a good reproduction of any desired graphic. Such elements will be placed as part of the overall design of the portrait.
COMBINING and ADDING PEOPLE, SETTINGS AND OBJECTS FROM SEPARATE PHOTOS INTO ONE PORTRAIT
Not a problem.
REMOVING PEOPLE AND UNNECESSARY OBJECTS AND BACKGROUND.
Not a problem.
CARING FOR YOUR DIGITAL PRINT
Your digital print requires the same care that any fine art print needs. I use only the finest archival materials, and your print will last indefinitely if given proper care.
• Protect your print from moisture and excessive humidity.
• Frame your print as soon as possible, using acid-free materials (mats, tape and backing).
• Avoid hanging your print in direct sunlight. If the print will be hanging in a sunny room, ask that your framer use UV-filtering glass (”conservation glass”).