So you decided you want to have a portrait painted of someone you hold dear. However you just can't decide which photo would be best. And you certainly don't want to send loads of pictures to the artist for them to choose. Well put your worries aside, I've come up with some ways to help.
Step 1: Assuming you already know who you want painted, you should decide what age you want them drawn. Parents love pictures of their babies and toddlers. It's a fleeting time in a persons life, and let's be honest we are all much cuter as kids!
Step 2: After narrowing down your search to the right age, you should choose the mood. Here are three basic types:
~Formal: The standard shoulder to face crop, with plain background. All focus is on the subject. Think of school pictures or church directories.
~Outdoorsy: In these pictures the subject won't be up close, usually. There should be an interesting scenery; this will give it a timeless landscape feel.
~Artsy: These photos will be taken at odd angles, very candid. The subject should not be looking at the camera.
Step 3: Narrow it all down to three shots you really like, then send them to the artist. I know for me I like to see a few options to decide which photo will turn into the best painting.
TIPS! : The following are photo examples of what to, and not to do.
Ah the classic awkward posed shot. adorable yes, good for painting, not really. Also, why have a photo you have already paid for redone to then pay for it again? I'd like to also point out, not many open mouthed toothy grin shots translate to paint very well.
Another bad choice for painting; posed group shots like this probably won't look great. Plus copyright infringement is questionable.
Cute! very cute. But the silly sweet faces in the photo will probably look like mad faces in the painting. Find a less exaggerated facial expression.
Almost there! this picture is very nice, but the adorable crooked smile still might change his looks once it's drawn out.
This is more like it. This shows personality, the subtle smile gives it some sweetness. Also the angle is unique and interesting.
Beautiful! the colors are bright and soft and i can see the whole face without lines or much shadow.
This is a fun outdoorsy type photo. It has all the things you should look for; lush surroundings, lovely lighting, and a clear subject.
Completed watercolor portraits
2 comments:
Great! Thanks for the info and I love the paintings,so much talent.
I was going to suggest you painting that adorable little girl in the tutu. Until I saw the last picture. Still the tutu girl does have ALL the right elements :)! You did a fantastic job with the picture of S.. I think the photo to portrait picture is a great way to show the outcome of a good portrait worthy photo. You inspire me lady!
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