How to Choose the Perfect Reference Photo for a Portrait Commission

Choosing the right reference photo is one of the most important steps in creating a portrait that feels alive, emotional, and true to the person you love. Whether this portrait is a gift, a memorial piece, or a keepsake for your home, the photo you choose becomes the foundation of the entire painting.

A strong reference image helps me capture not only a likeness but the story, the presence, and the God-given beauty within that person. Below are my best tips for selecting the perfect reference photo for your commission.

1. Look for Clear, Natural Lighting

Lighting is everything when it comes to portrait work. It affects the colors, the contrasts, and the overall feeling of the painting.

Best lighting conditions:

• Soft, natural light (morning or late afternoon)

• Light that gently wraps around the face

• Shadows that are soft, not harsh, though sometimes harsher shadows add intrigue

Try to avoid:

• Harsh overhead lighting

• Indoor fluorescent light

• Super dark or grainy photos

Good lighting helps me paint natural skin tones and real depth — the details that make a portrait feel dimensional and alive.

2. Make Sure the Face Is Sharp and in Focus

The eyes, expression, and subtle features are what bring a painting to life. If the photo is blurry, pixelated, or taken from too far away, I won’t be able to see the small details that matter.

Look for:

• Sharp clarity in the eyes

• Visible eyelashes, eyebrows, and lines of expression

• A photo that doesn’t lose detail when you zoom in

If you're unsure whether a photo works, send it to me — I'm always happy to take a look.

3. Choose an Expression That Feels True to Them

This is where the magic happens.

Some of my favorite portraits come from photos that capture a natural moment — a real smile, a thoughtful expression, a spark in the eyes. Choose an expression that makes you say:

“Yes… that’s them.”

Consider:

• Do they have a signature smile?

• Do they tend to look more relaxed than posed?

• Does the photo show their personality?

The emotional truth of an expression translates beautifully into paint.

4. Pay Attention to the Angle and Composition

The best reference photos typically include:

• The head and shoulders (or more, depending on the portrait style)

• A slight turn of the face (adds depth and interest)

• Good balance and space around the subject

Photos taken from extreme angles — looking down, looking up, or super close to the camera — can distort proportions and aren’t ideal for portrait work.

Simple, natural, and balanced is usually best.

5. Backgrounds and Props Can Add Meaning (Optional)

While I can simplify or completely change the background in a painting, sometimes the setting adds a special layer of meaning.

Some clients choose photos where the person is:

• In their favorite chair

• On a ranch or in a garden

• Holding a meaningful object (instrument, book, hat, pet)

• Wearing something special to them

These small details can help tell a story if you want to include them.

6. When in Doubt — Send Multiple Photos

If you love several photos and can’t decide, send them all. I’ll help you pick the one that:

• Tells the best story

• Has the strongest lighting

• Captures their personality

• Will translate beautifully into paint

Sometimes the best portrait is a combination of two photos — expression from one, lighting from another. And we can make that work too.

A Final Thought: Choose a Photo That Makes You Feel Something

At the end of the day, choose the image that moves you. Choose the one that makes you pause, smile, or remember something special. My goal as an artist is to honor the God-given worth, beauty, and purpose in each person I paint — and the right photo helps bring that to life.

If you’re ready to get started, or want help choosing your reference photo, I’d love to talk with you. You can reach me through my website, email admin@cb-portraits.com, or Instagram @catb_portraits anytime.