"ROSCOE" 11023, daily painter dog portrait © Carol Nelson Fine Art

"ROSCOE"




This is a commissioned pet portrait.  Roscoe looks like a happy guy.  I had a good reference photo to work from with strong light and shadow.

I remember my portrait project from a year ago where I painted 100 portraits from photos I received by email.  I had to stress over and over the importance of taking a photo with strong light coming from one side so there would be shadows across the face.  I actually told people to go outside at dawn or sunset and take a picture with the sun lighting only one side of the face.

That's one of the reasons many professional portraits are boring.  Flash, flash, flash.  No shadows on the face.  There is no reason to light up the entire face as if it were a mug shot or an object in an advertisement.

9 comments:

Carol Blackburn said...

Well, he is adorable and does look very happy. I bet he would lick your face and say thank you if he could, Carol. :)

Carmen Beecher said...

What a sincere expression. Beautiful job.

carol morgan carmichael said...

Yep. Lighting can totally make for a great or mediocre painting. This is a GREAT portrait!

Kim Blair said...

You are right Carol, having some nice contrast of light and dark makes a portrait so much more interesting. I still love the purple and blue hair and eyebrows you gave me, when you painted mine during your 100 portraits in 100 days.
Kim

Art Matters said...

Love the texture and the light and shadow! Great job!

Miccosukee said...

Thank you for that great photo tip. Maybe I can get a decent shot of my Corgi. I have used up so much time doing it wrong.

Gwen Bell said...

Roscoe's sunny disposition shines right through in this delightful Portrait. Wonderful job, Carol! I especially appreciate the subtlety of the eye in shadow.

Diana Marshall said...

Wonderful portrait, he looks a lovely character.

Jill said...

I couldn't agree with you more. He is so full of life and expression. beautiful work.