I have often been asked what I need to be able to paint a specially requested painting.

Actually I do not need a lot. It depends entirely on the project each time.

Often it is just an idea,
sometimes from a photograph, or from multiple photographs which I find the best composition,
videos, all depending on the customers wishes.

For landscape and farmscape, it is enough to name the place. I can find references myself, or use provided ones. Usually people send me more than one, and ask me to emphasize on a specific spot as the main focal point.

When painting animals, for example horses, it is good to get several headshots, straight from the front, and from both profiles/sides. This way I get an idea of the animal’s character. If the horse is supposed to be in full size, with or without a rider, it is very good to be able to see their form, running free or under a rider, doesn’t matter weather it is on a photo or video. 

Making an exact replica of a photograph is not very exciting, it is more about capturing the animals likeness and spirit, and of course with a hint of abstraction, weather it is with color, texture or by having the landscape blurred.

Sheep, cats, dogs and other animals, a good headshot is usually enough.

For human portraits, please send clear photos with good likeness.