How to Choose the Best Photo for a Custom Pet Portrait

The secret to a portrait you will treasure is the photo you start with. Here is how to pick (or take) the perfect one in a few minutes.

1. Choose natural light

Photos taken near a window or outdoors in soft daylight show true fur colors and detail. Avoid flash, which causes glowing eyes and harsh shadows.

2. Get on their level

Shoot at your pet's eye level so the portrait feels personal. A squeaky toy or treat held next to the camera helps you catch an alert, happy expression.

3. Fill the frame with their face

The face should take up most of the photo. Our editor crops automatically, but it needs enough detail to work with, so skip far-away shots.

4. Keep it sharp

Tap your pet's eyes on your phone screen to focus, and hold still. A sharp photo makes a sharp print, especially on large blankets and canvases.

5. Use the original file

Upload the original photo from your camera roll, not a screenshot or a photo saved from social media, which are compressed and lose detail.

6. Memorial portraits

If you are making a memorial gift and only have older or blurry photos, send us your best one anyway. Our team will help you choose and let you know what to expect before we print.

Ready to start? Browse personalized gifts and upload your photo to see a live preview.