Photographs should be clear and sharp - nothing out of focus or blurry. Remember to fill your camera's frame with your subject.
The use of natural light, rather than flash-filled light, creates the most effective image. When outside, take photographs on a bright overcast day. Avoid direct sunlight as this may cast harsh shadow and affect true color. When inside, take photographs by a well-lit window or in a well-lit room. One exception for the use of flash might be if your subject is a pet and has very dark (black) fur as it tends to absorb the light. In this case a flash can add detail rather than distract from it.
Although a frontal view creates a personal expressive portrayal, it is not the only option. A three-quarter view often creates a natural appearance and an appealing perspective. A profile view deviates less from appearance and more on proportion by creating a simple, concise representation.
The direction of your subject's eyes can impact a portrait dramatically. Looking directly into the camera can create a strong connection with the viewer, whereas having you subject focus on something outside the camera's field of view can create a curiously captivating portrait.
Alter your perspective. Don't photograph your subject from above, unless this is how you would like your portrait to look. Photograph your subject eye level. Getting down to your subject's level will allow the portrait to appear engaging.
Studio originated photographs are accepted with a signed release form from the photographer. Please view and/or print the Photographer's Release Form.
Digital photographs should be taken at the highest resolution. Scanned photographs are accepted at 300 dpi or larger. Send the original image without compression.
Additional photographs may be requested by the artist if greater quality and/or detail is needed.
Remember, the photographs sent of the subject are how they will appear in the finished artwork. These are the only references the artist has to work from. Therefore, the detail and quality of the artwork is largely dependent on the quality of the photographs sent.
