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Need Help Selecting a Reference Photo for your Pet Portrait?

Every portrait I create begins with the reference photos you provide. The clearer and truer the image, the more fully I can honor your beloved companion's Spirit on canvas. Below are a few gentle guidelines for selecting (or taking) the perfect photograph.

Natural Light

Soft daylight is best, bringing out the richness of fur and the sparkle in their eyes. Avoid harsh shadows or glaring highlights that hide their true features.

My dog Sydney
My dog Sydney

Clarity

a portrait is built on detail. Please choose an image that is sharp and in focus, so every whisker and nuance shines through.

My dog Sydney
My dog Sydney

Proximity

A photo that is too distant may lose the intimacy of your pet's presence. Close, well-composed images allow me to portray them with warmth and accuracy.

My cat Kira
My cat Kira

Authenticity

Select a pose that captures their essence - be it regal stillness, playful curiosity, or soulful calm. Pick a photo that feels like them.

My dog Sydney
My cat Kira

True Colors

PLease avoid filters or heavily edited photographs. I want to reflect their natural beauty - the exact shade of their eyes, the subtleties of their fur.

My dog Sydney
My dog Sydney
"With the right photograph, I can transform a moment into a lasting tribute- an heirloom that carries both likeness and soul."

©2025 The Unrolled Canvas. All content, images, and artwork displayed on this website are protected by copyright law and remain the intellectual property of melinda buter. unauthorized reproduction or use is strictly prohibited.

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