Reference Photo Guidelines

How to Capture the Perfect Reference for Your Portrait

A thoughtfully chosen photograph lays the foundation for a beautiful portrait.

Soft light, clear detail, and natural expression allow me to capture depth, personality, and the subtle features that make someone who they are.

If you’re unsure, don’t worry - you may always send multiple options, and I will help you choose the strongest image. Intentionally captured Iphone photos work wonderfully.

1. Lighting is Everything

The most important element of a strong reference photo is soft, natural light.

What works beautifully:

  • Standing or sitting facing a window

  • Bright, indirect daylight

  • Outdoor photos taken in open shade

  • Light gently falling across the face

What to avoid:

  • Overhead ceiling lights

  • Direct sunlight hitting the face

  • Harsh shadows across the eyes

  • Mixed indoor lighting (yellow + blue tones)

Soft light allows me to render the subtle shadows and highlights that give a portrait dimension and life.

2. Keep the Framing Simple

For head-and-shoulders portraits, I need to clearly see the eyes and facial features.

The camera should be at eye level (not looking up or down) to prevent distortion.

Ideal framing:

  • Head and shoulders (face-forward or angled slightly to the side - both work)

  • Eyes sharp and clearly visible

Please avoid:

  • Full body photos (unless commissioning full body)

  • Blurry images

  • Wide-angle selfies taken very close to the face

3. Natural Expression Matters Most

The soul of a portrait is expression.

I look for photographs where the person feels relaxed, natural, and alive in the eyes - the version of themselves their loved ones know best.

Best choices:

  • Genuine smiles

  • Soft, relaxed expressions

  • Candid moments

4. Memorial Portraits

If your portrait is being created in memory of someone, I understand how meaningful this piece is.

If possible, choose a photo that:

  • Has clear lighting on the face

  • Shows their natural expression

  • Feels like them

If only older or lower-quality images are available, please still send them. I will carefully review what is possible and guide you with honesty and care.

5. Not Sure Which Photo To Choose?

You may always send multiple options.

Part of my process is selecting the reference that will translate most beautifully into a drawing. I am happy to guide you.

A Final Note

These guidelines reflect ideal conditions, not strict requirements.

I’ve created many beautiful portraits from photos that didn’t meet every one (or any) of these suggestions. If your image isn’t perfect, please don’t worry. Send what you have, and together we will select the best option.

My goal is simply to create something timeless and meaningful, no matter where the photograph began.