Even with an ostensibly simple picture such as a pet portrait, a good composition is crucial for the finished painting to work. As with any aspect of the painting process, the way it is approached is what singles out the great painters. Often, good composition is the result of a natural process: when the painter creates a picture that is pleasing to the eye is is most probably down to the fact that the artist has ended up with a composition that conforms to traditional rules. Read more »

When painting a picture artists, including pet portrait painters, will take on various techniques to produce the visual effects needed on the canvas. Many of these techniques have been used by artists for centuries and have particular terms to describe them. Below is a brief list describing these terms and the principles upon which they’re based. Read more »