The ideal photograph
for me to use should be clear and in focus.
The best lighting is achieved by taking it outside on a bright but overcast day.
This prevents intense glare and deep shadows, both of which can erase a lot of detail from the picture.
However, be careful what environment you choose — if you are hoping for a full body portrait then you may not want part of the subject‘s features to be lost in grass or behind an object.
Flash photography is ok, although it can be harder to work from and it may be advisable
to take several shots from slightly different angles.
The shadows produced by the flash can loose the outline, especially of a dark subject, like a pet with dark fur.
If at all possible, keep the background simple.
For maximum detail the subject should cover the largest available area in the photograph.
Take the picture at your subject‘s eye level, rather than having them look up at you,
unless this is how you wish the portrait to look.
Comfortable surroundings and treats or toys can make the task easier,
although you may have to enlist the help of a friend to assist you.
Traditional (wet film), instant or digital photographs are all usable,
but please bear in mind that simply enlarging digital photographs does not produce more detail
and is therefore no substitute for a close-up image.