Reference Photo for Your Portrait Commission

Welcome to my SRS Creative Artblog! Read this guide on how to select the perfect reference photo for your portrait commission. With over 10 years of experience in creating personalized portraits, I understand the importance of a high-quality reference photo for your personalized portrait commission. Choosing the right reference picture is important for capturing the personality and details of the subject. In this guide, I’ll describe the key considerations to ensure your commissioned portrait is everything you envision.

A High-Quality Reference Photo is Crucial

A great portrait starts with a great reference picture. Here’s the reason:
Details: High-resolution photos provide the necessary details for capturing facial features and expressions.
Accuracy: Clear pictures help me to capture an accurate likeness, ensuring that the portrait truly represents the person.
Lighting: Adequate lighting brings depth to the portrait and helps highlight the subject’s features.

The Right Pose and Expression

Selecting the right pose can make a significant difference in the final artwork. It’s important to pose naturally, in a way that feels relaxed and natural. If applicable, provide photos from different angles for a comprehensive view of the subject. A thoughtful look and a genuine smile can express emotion and character, so face expression is also important.

Lighting Tips for Reference Photos

Good lighting is essential for a high-quality reference photo. Take photos in natural light, avoiding harsh shadows and overexposure. Early morning or late afternoon light is soft and flattering. Although I can work around this, if possible, ensure consistent lighting across all photos to avoid discrepancies in the final portrait.

Background Considerations

While the background is less important, a clean and uncluttered background helps me focus on the subject. Neutral Backgrounds, like a plain wall or simple scenery, keeps the focus on the subject.

Multiple Photos for Reference

Providing multiple photos can be beneficial for the portrait commission, but not necessary. Different photos help capture various aspects of the subject’s appearance and personality. Close-up shots of the face, hands, or other significant features ensure accuracy. Full-body photos provide context for the subject’s posture and attire. Again, if there is one good reference photo, there’s no need for any extra photos.
In the case when the portrait will contain multiple persons, it’s not necessary for them to be in one photo, I can paint them together from different photos. Based on the paper size, one portrait can contain from one person up to six people. Check all available portrait sizes on my pricing page.

Specific Requirements

Communicate any specific requirements or preferences. For example, if you have a preferred clothing or accessories or if you would like a custom background element or a color scheme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid blurry, unclear, low resolution or pixelated photos, as they lack detail.
Inconsistent lighting can make it challenging to capture accurate colors and shadows.
Ensure the subject’s face and key features are clearly visible.

Conclusion

Choosing the right reference photo is the first step in creating a stunning, lifelike and high-quality portrait. These portraits from my portfolio were created after excellent reference photos. By following these points, you’ll help ensure the final artwork is a true representation of the subject’s appearance and personality. Ready to get started? Check my pricing page and choose your custom portrait size.
I’m looking forward to creating a timeless piece of art for you!