The quality of your reference photos has a direct impact on the final painting. You don't need professional equipment — a smartphone works perfectly — but a few simple steps will help Valerie capture every detail that makes your home uniquely yours.
Shoot in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower in the sky. This "golden hour" light is warm, soft, and casts gentle shadows that bring out architectural detail beautifully.
Avoid midday sun — harsh overhead light flattens the exterior and creates unflattering shadows.
Stand directly in front of the home and center it in the frame. A straight-on shot gives Valerie the clearest view of the façade, roofline, windows, and front door — the details that define the portrait.
Back up far enough to include the full roofline and a little space around the edges. Avoid extreme angles.
Send at least 2–3 photos from slightly different distances or angles. If there are special features you love — a porch, a garden, a unique door — photograph those separately as well.
More reference photos give Valerie more to work with and result in a more accurate, detailed portrait.
Make sure nothing is cut off — roof, sides, front steps, and any landscaping you'd like included should all be visible. If the home is large, take the photo from further back.
A slightly wider shot is always better than too tight. Valerie can focus in, but can't paint what isn't in the photo.
Move vehicles, trash cans, bikes, or anything temporary out of the frame before shooting. The cleaner the scene, the more the home itself can shine in the final painting.
Tap on the home on your phone screen to ensure it's in focus before shooting. Blurry or dark photos make fine details difficult to capture. If the image looks unclear on your phone screen, retake it.
Photos taken on a bright, overcast day are also excellent — diffused cloud cover creates even, shadow-free lighting.