General Advice


Photos

Digital cameras don't use film but record images on removable memory cards which can be loaded directly into your computer, cutting out the need for
advantages
• you can afford to take as many pictures as you like and you get immediate playback.
• It is simple to erase those that do not come up to scratch, and use the same memory stick to take lots more photos.
• It is extremely helpful to take a number of different views of a subject, and then be able to check them before moving on.
• As the camera automatically adjusts to the type of lighting in use, you don't have to worry about using the correct film for daylight or artificial light.
• even in poor light, you can often take photos without flash as long as you can find somewhere to lean the camera against.
• It saves spending a fortune on film
• A small digital camera is particularly useful for capturing off-the-cuff photos
• Its size makes it easy to slip into a pocket,
• it doesn't matter how many pictures you waste
• it's certainly simple to use and great fun
disadvantages
• digital cameras can still be expensive
• definition in very big enlargements may not match that of 35mm.
• finding enough storage space to provide a back-up for digital images can present problems, and you may need some sort of external storage device

However, digital cameras are ideal for building up a set of pictures which could be used to make that personal, beautiful and timeless portrait of a person or a pet.
Portraits painted from photos.
the more information the better:

• Be happy to take loads of pictures to get a "keeper". . Keep the camera close at hand and ready to shoot. That special moment doesn’t last. A digital camera makes life easy. If using traditional photography use 200-400 speed film or faster to stop motion. And use at least a full roll

• One photo of the family doesn't produce the best individual photo. Someone always seems to be blinking or looking away from the camera. Don’t worry, get a few good individual pictures of each subject with the same lighting and photograph angle

• Clothing is the 'key' to a successful portrait. For group portraits you will want to choose colours that are in the same family. Pick theme colours and keep everyone in shades of that colour. One outfit should be in solid colours without designs. Groups of children should have complimentary or matching clothing. In fact, matching clothes look best Avoid busy patterns

• The best lighting would be outdoors in hazy sun - this light is ideal for taking a good picture. If this is not possible, try taking the photographs inside near a window or door on a bright day. Have your back towards the window with the subject facing towards its natural light

• You may want to try a variety of lighting arrangements. Good and interesting lighting makes for a good and interesting portrait A subject(s)'s face in half shade & half light, makes for a more interesting artistic picture.

• In bright sunlight you may want to use a flash to lighten shadows

• Consider what colours are in the room where the portrait will hang

• Evalute the size of your subject and the location where the portrait will hang when determining a size. Both 11x14 and 16x20 will work well for small animals or head studies. Full body portraits, larger animals or more than one pet work better in larger sizes

• If you desire a custom background - a favorite spot in your garden, perhaps - include a few photos of your preferred setting as well.

 

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