Choosing Reference Photos

The reference photo is one of the most important parts of a portrait. A clear photo with good light gives me the information I need to draw from. Here’s what I look for when choosing one.

The ideal reference photo has:

• Light coming from one direction, with a brighter side and a softer shadow side

• Clear, focused eyes

• A natural, relaxed expression

• A clear, unfiltered image with plenty of detail

Lighting

Good lighting gives me much more to work with.

Light and shadow help me see the form of the face clearly. What matters most is directional light: one side of the face is brighter while the other falls into soft shadow. A photo taken near a window in natural daylight often works very well.

Try to avoid flash or overhead ceiling lights, which can make everything look evenly bright and remove natural depth.

A little shadow is a good thing.

Angle & Pose

A slightly turned or 3/4 angle usually works very well. Side views can work too. I generally prefer natural, relaxed poses rather than stiff or overly posed photos.

Expression

Candid photos and relaxed expressions often make the best references. Choose a photo with an expression you recognize as being typical of them.

Photos that usually don't work well

• Blurry or low-resolution images

• Heavy filters

• Screenshots or photos of printed photographs

• Strong flash

• Very dark photos where the eyes or features are difficult to see

• Photos taken from far away

• Photos with important features cropped out

Because light and clarity are essential to the way I draw, I’m sometimes unable to accept a commission if a suitable reference isn’t available. I’m always happy to look through the photos you have and let you know which would work best.