Reference Guide

Its time to find that puurrrfect photo …

The great benefit of Scratchboard is the amount of detail you can achieve, even in the smallest of portraits. It's a medium that allows me to achieve those tiny details that makes your pet unique. In order to do this, a good reference photo is key. That is why I have created this handy guide to assist you in picking that perfect photolike: 

What makes a GOOD reference photo?

1. Positioning of your pet

​The position of your pet in the photo can make a big difference to the portrait. It helps to be down at the same level as your pet, so you aren't taking a photo from high above them. I would recommend holding a toy or a treat whilst the photo is being taken. This is a great distraction, especially for those who are very energetic and never sit still.

​2. Detail in the photograph

​The easiest way to answer this question is to zoom in on the picture of your pet. Can you see the fur in detail? Can you see the direction the fur is going in? If you zoom in on the eyes, can you see detail in their eyes?

​3. Distance from the camera

​Is your pet too far away from the camera? If they are, the details can be lost in the photo.

​4. Lighting

​Is the photo over exposed, or under exposed? Sometimes when taking a photo in bright sunlight the image can end up over exposed where there is stark areas of bright white fur with little to no detail. Conversely, if the image is taken in a dark room, the photo will be under exposed and you will have the opposite effect. The photo will be too dark with little to no detail.

Examples

Below are some examples of what makes a GOOD Reference photo and what makes a BAD Reference photo.

If your pet has passed away, or you feel like you need help taking or choosing a good reference photo, then please don't hesitate to and I will be happy to help.

Good : The below photos have everything that makes a good reference photo. 

Bad :The below photos would not work for a pet portrait. They are all either, too far away, dont have enough detail in the photo, or are too light / dark.