Choosing a Reference Photo

A good reference photo is very important!

When starting a portrait I begin by drawing the subject based on a reference photo. As I paint, I will continue to carefully refer to this photo.

Here are my tips for choosing a good picture, using photos of my daughter as examples.

The photo should be clear and close up on the subject’s face.

It should primarily show the subject's head and shoulders, facing the camera, and the subject's face should be in focus to show maximum detail. Profile pictures are ok! Just make sure the full torso is visible. The photo should not be using a magnification or zoom.

It should be in a well-lit space.

Indoor or outdoor lighting both work well, as long as the details of the face are visible. A photo with a clear light source (that creates subtle shadows on the face) makes a great portrait- as long as the shadows aren’t so dark that they obscure the face.

No photo filters! They eliminate details and alter color.

The subject should have a genuine facial expression.

Any expression can work for a portrait- as long as it’s candid! A school picture isn’t ideal because the subject looks posed with an inauthentic smile. And of course, the subject doesn't need to be smiling! Quiet expressions are great too.

The subject can be making eye contact with the photographer, or not! Either will work.