Custom Portraits - Tips - Contemporary Graphic Portraiture

: As you provide the original image that we will draw your Pop Art portraits from, it is imperative that you take the time to take a decent portrait photo.
: First and foremost, it should be a high quality picture in which all the details are clear, in focus, and ideally contain a full view of the head, hair and shoulders taking up most of the frame. The more of the upper figure we have the better - it allows us to try out a wider range of compositions in the artworking stage.

: The photograph to the right is a good example of what is a suitable image for the artist to work from. There is a good view of the whole head, hair, and neck, with part of the shoulders and upper torso also in the frame. This gives us the opportunity to zoom in different areas of the drawing to discover interesting crops.
: The subject is well lit (see lighting section below for more) and the features are defined, such as the nose shape, strands/locks in the hair, and the jaw line. Only the eyes are a little unclear as they are caught in quite deep shadows under the brow.

Pose
Apart from looking straight at the camera, consider poses that may convey your character more effectively. Feel free to experiment with different poses and viewpoints. For example, front views, three-quarter views or profiles.

Think about 'informal' portraits, where one is caught in action or everyday activity - talking, laughing, musing and so on. Portraying the individual in this way is more spontaneous and can be highly expressive. Also, the use of hands adds a great sense of animation and energy to one's character.

: Clothing
We only require your portrait picture from the chest/shoulders up but please make an effort to choose a photograph that best reflects your fashion style. Hats, glasses, accessories or even fancy dress! These can all contribute towards a chic, trendy portrait.
: Remember, our Pop Art work at Custom Portraits is meant to be loud, bright, with bags of personality.

To get a better idea, just think of fashion magazines and photography where the models are always captured in a captivating way.

You may find that the photo you have lacks colour somewhat, as shown in the example to the right. Keep in mind that you can completely customise the colours when commissioning a portrait with us so you can colour the clothing as you wish. Perhaps you can try out daring colour combinations or highlighting certain areas with a colour boost.

Lighting
There needs to be a good balance of light and shadow in the photo, so that the form and structure of the figure translates well in the line work of the graphic pop art style. The subject should be well lit and lighting should ideally be from the side and slightly above - very common in portraiture work.

Avoid using flash photography as the light is quite harsh and flattens the details of the face, as it is from the front. Also, try to stay away from deep cast shadows which can obscure the facial features.

: The Retro Style in particular works well with subjects that have a strong light and dark contrast. The example on the right is a perfect example, with a distinct area of shadow across one side of the face and intense light shining on the opposite side. Note that the features are still clearly visible even though caught in the shade.
: This contrast can be rendered very effectively with the Retro Style dot tint shading. The hard-edged, darker screentones add a whole new depth and dimension to a drawing.

: Format
Digital photos are the best, as results are quick and you can take as many as you like until you are happy, without extra cost. When taking digital pictures, make sure that it is at the highest quality setting. If scanning a photo, please make sure that it is at a high resolution, 300dpi or more. Images should be clear at a size of A5 at least.

: With digital images, you can easily send them to us by e-mail. Attachments should be no larger than 10MB in total. JPEG (.jpg .jpeg) files are the usual format. Make sure you save them at the maximum quality. Other file formats we accept are: .tif .tiff .bmp .psd .png

: If digital technology is not for you then you are always welcome to send us a printed photograph. Maximum size is A4 (210mm x 297mm). Please send it using recorded delivery for security, however, we cannot accept responsibility for items lost or damaged in the post. Your photo will be returned with your canvas print when the order is complete.

: Colours schemes can be carefully selected to suit your own interior decor.
: If ordering a group of portraits, similar colours can be used to create a matching set. On the other hand, each individual can get his or her own personalised colour.

: Our range of canvas sizes and formats encourage you to go for alternative compositions, crops, and close ups that can lead to more evocative, striking portraits.
: For some inspiration, have a look at how people are portrayed in modern photography, film, and cinema.