One thing that is always on my mind is reference photos. I know this probably is not on most people’s mind, but I am always thinking of the next “shot”. It could be for an Instagram photo or for the inspiration for a painting, either way I am always taking some sort of photograph. These days it is immensely easier with the availability of phone cameras, and the fact that everyone expects photos to be taken, to be snapping photos all the time. As my primary focus tends to be pets, there are many places that I can take these photos.
Friends pets are an option, pet stores, adoption centers, and dog parks are some of my favorite places to take photos. Part of the key to taking these photos is taking LOTS, sometimes to an obnoxious amount, you never know which will be the one that makes a great painting. Composition is in the back of my mind, but really having some time to observe what the animal is doing is important to me. So it is good to find a balance between taking the photos and observing.