You don't have to be David Bailey but...
To do your subject justice I need a nice clear photo, or ideally several photos, to work from. If you can, try to ensure that your photo is:
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Taken in good light. Over- or underexposed pictures don't do your subject justice unless you're trying to create a particular "look". With animals, this is especially important so that the colour of a coat, for example, can be represented properly.
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Try to capture your subject the way you like to think of them: for a pet, catch him or her looking cute or amusing or just plain handsome! Characterful pictures are often more captivating.
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For a landscape, make sure I'll be able to see landmarks that you would like depicted in your commission and think about things like shadows and interesting skies.
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For headshot animal portraits, close up pictures work best. Being able to see fur texture, little quirks like a droopy ear, a wet nose or light reflected in your pet's eyes all help to bring their portrait to life.
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Mobile phone photos are fine as long as the picture is clear enough: have a look at it close up on your phone screen if you are in doubt. If the image is very pixelated when it's enlarged, its probably not suitable. Try getting closer to the subject or taking a picture in brighter conditions.
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If you're unsure as to whether the pictures you have are suitable then just ask! You can email me your photos at art@hannahthorpeart.co.uk with some information about what you'd like from your commission and I will let you know whether they are suitable or whether we need more information.