Photo Tips
taking better photos of buildings...
by Chris Mosley
How to order a portrait?...
I create each portrait in a two way process, keeping you informed with e-mailed proof images and responding to your comments on any necessary changes. This ensures that the portrait is as life-like and true as possible. Simply e-mail a clear, detailed photograph and description of what you require including portrait size, portrait medium (watercolour or graphite), and what to include, emphasize or remove from the portrait composition.
I'll then prepare a draft composition to help show you how the portrait will look. When your portrait is complete I'll e-mail you a proof image to check if any changes are necessary and repeat this process until you are completely happy. Only then do I request any payment, giving you peace of mind when ordering online.
How much will a portrait cost ?...
Select the portrait price link in the top or side menus on each page to find the portrait prices. Only when you are completely happy with a portrait proof image will I request payment.
How do I pay for a portrait ?...
Choose to pay either by PayPal, Cheque or Bank Transfer.
How long will it take to complete a portrait?...
Portraits are normally completed within 6 to 8 weeks although I can often complete one sooner if necessary for a special occasion or birthday for example. Christmas portrait orders should be placed as early as possible due to high demand.
Please remember that I can only draw from what I see in your photos! If necessary, I can work from several photos showing the individual details of what you want included in your house portrait.
Digital Camera Settings...Digital Camera Settings...
Set your Picture Size / Quality Settings to Medium or Large. Files up to 450kB usually contain enough detail to work from and the smaller file size makes it quicker to send and receive your e-mails.
When to take your photos...When to take your photos...
Early morning or late afternoon sunshine gives the best conditions to photograph a building because the shadows will be softer and the light much warmer and clearer. Strong midday sunshine will cast strong vertical shadows across the building, which can hide important details.
Choose the composition...Choose the composition...
A view taken at a slight angle showing the front facade and some of the side elevation will often create a more interesting portrait.
Try to get one photo of the whole building, even if you have to stand a long way back. If this is not possible then take two photos together from the same viewpoint, turning the body from one spot to photograph each half of the building.
Don't worry if something is missing or in the way such as a large tree or car. I can leave out any element in the composition or even fill-in missing or hidden detail using several photos. Please describe clearly what you want including or removing.
Important Details ...Important Details ...
If some details are not clear from the main photo then you may need to take a close-up photo of particular elements. For example a car may be parked in front of the gate or the house name and number may not be clear on the main photo.
Seasons...Seasons...
I can in some cases adjust the season in your house portrait. For example, I could make a winter scene appear as summer or vice-versa. Please ask when you enquire.
Lock the Focus...Lock the Focus...
If your camera is set to auto-focus the picture may turn out blurry because the camera will focus on whatever is in the centre of the viewfinder. Try to remedy this by locking the focus on the subject. Usually you have to centre the subject in the viewfinder and then press the shutter button halfway down. Continue holding the button halfway down while you move the camera to where you want the subject in the viewfinder. When you are ready, press the button all the way down to take the picture.
One good picture is better than ten bad...One good picture is better than ten bad...
Please choose only one or two clear photos that show what you want in your portrait rather than sending me many blurred photos that I cannot use.
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