A face in focus.
Choose a sharp original photo so the eyes and small markings are easy to see.
A clear photo.
A familiar face.
You don’t need a studio photoshoot. Choose a clear everyday photo that shows the details you know by heart.
What to look for ↓A good photo,
at a glance.
Compare the recommended photo with an example to avoid. Photo effects illustrate lost detail. The multiple-pet and turned-away examples are AI-created photo illustrations.
Nothing hiding their face.
Keep eyes, nose and markings visible; move a toy or blanket aside before taking the photo.
A little space around the head.
Leave a little space around the ears and chin so the whole head stays in the photo.
Their coat, in its own colors.
Use the unfiltered original so coat colors and markings stay recognizable.
Light enough to see the details.
Move into soft daylight if shadows hide the eyes or coat markings.
Keep the light from washing them out.
Avoid harsh direct light that washes out white fur and facial detail.
Light their face, not just the background.
Let the window light your pet’s face, rather than leaving it in shadow against a bright background.
Make their face easy to see.
Move closer until the face is easy to check, while keeping the whole head in the frame.
Keep the original detail.
Use the original camera file instead of a screenshot or repeatedly compressed copy.
One pet for one portrait.
Choose one clearly pictured cat or dog. For another species or multiple pets in one portrait, contact us first.
Choose an angle that shows their face.
A slight head turn can work; avoid angles that hide the eyes or muzzle, and follow the chosen style’s photo advice.
Character portraits.
No costume required.
When the photo is all you have.
Can I use an old photo?
An older photo may work when the facial features are clear. Missing or blurred details cannot be reliably recovered. Use the clearest version available and compare the preview carefully before ordering.
Will every detail stay exactly the same?
AI-generated portraits may change colors, texture, features and composition. The preview gives you a chance to check what matters to you. You can decide not to order if the result doesn’t feel right.
Still unsure about your photo?
Contact us before you start. We can help check what to consider for your chosen style.