Guidelines for Portrait Reference Photos

You are here: Home > Guidelines for Portrait Reference Photos

Painting from a photographic reference is not ideal compared to painting from life, therefore it is essential that the reference photo is of the highest possible quality. If your photo is not suitable to use as a reference, I may have to contact you to acquire another photo.

Please read the following guidelines for advice on how to take a good reference photo.

  • The photo should be taken specifically for use as a painting reference. It is unlikely that a snapshot you have taken before will be suitable.
  • If possible, have the photo taken by a professional photographer or someone with experience of taking portrait shots. (note that if you do use a professional photographer, you must ensure that you get permission from them to use the photo as reference for a portrait painting.)
  • If you can’t get a professional photo, you should at least use a good camera, with at least 10 megapixels (no mobile phone snaps.)
  • Use natural light, no flash photography.
  • There should be a good contrast between light areas and shadows, but the light areas must not be overexposed or all detail will be lost.
  • The focus must be sharp (at least in the focal point of the photo.) Use a tripod if possible to minimise blur.

Good examples

Here are some examples of good reference photos:

Sharp focus on face, good pose

Image source: Soichi Masuhara via Flickr

Interesting pose and camera angle, warm lighting

Image source: ali.milteer via Flickr

Great contrast and sharp focus

Image source: FurLined via Flickr

Bad Examples

And just for comparison, here are some photos that would not be suitable to use as reference:

Too dark, lo-res, not enough detail

Overexposed, washed out colour and out of focus