A great portrait starts with a great photo. The good news? You don't need a professional camera. A phone photo works beautifully if you keep a few simple things in mind.
1. Light is everything
Natural daylight gives the best results. Photos taken near a window or outdoors on a cloudy day show true colors and soft details. Avoid photos taken in dim rooms or with harsh flash.
2. Faces should be clear and in focus
The eyes are the heart of a portrait. Choose a photo where faces are sharp, not blurry, and not hidden by sunglasses, hats, or shadows.
3. Get close enough
A photo where the person or pet fills most of the frame works far better than a tiny figure in a big landscape. If you zoom in on the face and it still looks clear, you're good.
4. Pick the right angle
Straight on or a slight side angle looks most natural. For pets, a photo taken at their eye level captures their personality best.
5. Choose a photo that feels like them
The technically perfect photo isn't always the right one. A big laugh, a favorite outfit, or the dog's signature head tilt makes the portrait feel truly personal.
6. Use the highest quality version
Screenshots and photos saved from social media lose quality. Whenever possible, upload the original photo straight from your phone or camera.
Quick checklist before you upload
- Taken in good, natural light
- Faces clear and in focus
- Subject fills most of the frame
- Original file, not a screenshot
- A photo that captures their personality
Ready to create your portrait?
Found the perfect photo? Upload it, choose your style, and let us turn it into a gift they'll treasure. Order early to have it in time for Christmas.