RegaliaGuide
How to take a pet photo for a portrait
A great portrait starts with a good photo, and you don't need a fancy camera. Your phone is enough if you get a few things right: soft light, eye level, sharp eyes and a calm pet. These tips work for dogs, cats and most other pets.
Use soft daylight
Light from a window or open shade outside shows your pet's coat and colors without harsh shadows.
Tip: Avoid direct midday sun and the camera flash.
Get down to eye level
Photos taken from your pet's eye level look natural and show their face clearly.
Tip: Kneel or sit on the floor and hold the phone at their eye height.
Focus on the eyes
Sharp eyes make a portrait feel alive.
Tip: Tap on your pet's eyes on the phone screen before you take the photo.
Fill the frame
Make sure your pet's face and body are big in the photo, not a small figure in a room.
Tip: Move closer rather than zooming in.
Keep the background simple
A plain background keeps attention on your pet.
Tip: A wall, a sofa or the floor works fine.
Get their attention
A treat, a squeaky toy or a sound they love makes them look at the camera.
Tip: Hold the treat right above your phone.
Take a lot of photos
Pets move. Take a burst and pick the sharpest one.
Tip: Use your phone's burst mode or take a short video and pick a frame.
Your pet, painted as royalty. Pick a title, add one photo and get a fine-art portrait in full resolution.
Paint my petQuestions
What kind of photo works best for a pet portrait?
A clear, well-lit photo where your pet's face is sharp and fills most of the frame, taken at their eye level.
Can I use an old photo of my pet?
Yes, if the face is clear and in focus. A sharper photo gives a more detailed portrait.
Can people be in the photo?
For a Regalia portrait, the photo should show only your pet, with no people.
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Updated October 11, 2026