Choosing the Perfect Reference Photo for Your Custom Portrait

When commissioning a custom watercolor portrait, one of the most important steps is choosing the right reference photo. In fact, the look and the mood of the portrait depend almost entirely on the reference photos you send me, as it’s the only way for me to understand the layout, the color palette, and the overall vision of the scene you want me to paint for you.

A well-chosen photo can lead to a portrait that is not only accurate but also full of life and emotion. On the other hand, a poorly chosen reference can result in a less satisfying final piece. Therefore, taking the time to select the best possible reference is key to achieving the desired outcome.

But how do you select the perfect photo to ensure your portrait turns out exactly as you envision?

Here are a few tips of what to look out for when choosing reference photos.

Tips for Selecting a Perfect Reference Photo for a Portrait

1. Clarity is Key

   Choose a photo that is clear and high in resolution. The more details visible in the photo, the more details the artist can incorporate into the painting. Blurry or pixelated images can make it difficult for the artist to capture fine details like facial features, textures, and lighting.

2. Good Lighting

   Opt for photos taken in natural light. Bright, well-lit images allow the artist to see the true colors and subtle variations in tone. Photos with good lighting help in accurately capturing the subject’s complexion, hair color, and other important details. Avoid photos taken in harsh or dim lighting, as they can distort the colors and details.

   Avoid backlit photos as they distort both shapes and colors!

3. Consider the Background

   While the focus is on the subject, the background can also play a significant role. Simple, uncluttered backgrounds are often best as they allow the subject to stand out more prominently. If the background is too busy, it can detract from the subject, making the portrait feel crowded or overwhelming.

4. Poses And Body Language

   Choose a photo where the subjects' poses and expressions align with the mood you want to convey in the portrait. Whether it’s a candid shot, a posed picture, or a moment of laughter, the expression and body language in the photo should resonate with what you want to see in the final artwork.

5. It's All About the Shadows

   You would never think that such a small thing as shadows is that important, particularly in watercolor paintings. Pick photos with long shadows - they create whimsical and intricate pattern that livens up any watercolor!

   And the other way around: avoid photos with no shadows cast. Such photos lack contrast and result in a gray and gloomy look in the end.