Choosing the Best Photograph

Some photos work better for portraits than others. To help me capture your subject's true essence, some guidelines to keep in mind when selecting your photo are:

• High quality photos give better results. They should be clear and focused. Generally, the higher the resolution and file size the better.

• Flash photos take away shadows needed for a realistic pencil sketch. Avoid photos that are too light or washed-out.

• It's all in the eyes- meaning, if you can see the detail in the eyes (eye lid opening), the photograph will give you a realistic portrait. Generally, your photo should be large enough to see the whites of the eyes clearly.

• Photos of people in natural poses with real smiles work best.

• If you are unsure about which photo to use, send two or three.

• Please do not send photos taken by a professional photographer, including school photos, unless you have express written consent from the photographer as this would constitute copyright infringement.

• If you live in the local area, I am happy to take a photograph of your subject to use for the portrait.