Outdoor lighting is best or by a window.  If you are outside, avoid putting your subject in direct sunlight as this will make him/her squint.  He will also have dark shadows on his face.  If the sun is out, put your loved one in the shade and have your back to the sun.  The best day is a bright overcast day, although not too cloudy.  

If you are taking your photos indoors, then a light room near the window is best.  Your back should be to the window and your loved one should be facing the window.  Try to avoid using a flash as this will cause red eye in the photo.

If you want more than one loved one in your portrait, try to take a photo that includes all of them.  Don't hesitate to ask me for a painting that includes elements from different photos (hair, clothing, background, etc.).  I will tell you whether it is possible or not.  If you want a painting of several loved ones but have individual photos, try to select photos that show the subjects in a comparable pose and taken at the same distance so they are the same size.    

Take the photographs at your pet's level or put him/her on a chair or table.  It may be helpful to have someone next to you with your pet's favorite toy so your pet looks interested.  Try to have your pet look at the person next to you.  This pose is better than face-on or a completely side view.  A pose with a slight angle to the side, but still showing the full face, is ideal. 

Take several photos from different angles.  

If you are taking your photos indoors, then a light room near the window is best.  Your back should be to the window and your pet should be facing the window.  Try to avoid using a flash as this will cause red eye in the photo.

Try to take a photo slightly to the side of your subject.  Slightly to the side, but still showing the full front, is an ideal shot.   Take several photos from different angles.  Taking photos when the sun is out is best.  Have the sun to your back when taking the photo though.  Try to get some shadow on the house and lawn.  Shadowing tends to make the painting more interesting. 

I can change or add elements to the house or landscaping if you want -- window boxes, different paint color, shutters, more shrubs, more flowers, etc.  Let me know what you want added or changed.  
 

Remember that the finished painting depends on the quality of the photographs that you send me.