Choose one main reference
Identify the image that controls the pose, expression and composition. Supporting photographs should clarify details rather than compete with it. For example: use photo one for the pose, photo two only for the eyes, and simplify the background. This is an example of a useful brief, not a customer testimonial.
For people and family portraits
Inspect every face at a larger size. Group photographs can appear clear on a phone while individual faces contain very little detail. Look for visible eyes, natural light and recognizable features. Strong filters, deep shadow or flash glare can hide information. Count every person to be painted, including subjects added from separate photographs; combining different poses and lighting needs a composition review.
For pets, houses and places
Show the markings, expression and coat colors that make a pet distinctive. Tell us whether a collar or background object should stay. For a house or landscape, identify the important features and anything to remove. A different season, light or background is a creative change that should be agreed before the painting begins.
Before you upload
Use the original file where possible rather than a screenshot from a message. The photo configurator accepts up to five JPG, PNG or WebP images, each within its displayed 20 MB and image-dimension limits. Put the main image first and explain the role of the others. Supply photographs you are entitled to use. Public portfolio use is separate from making your private commission.