Pet portrait composition question

[EmmaLee]

Here is a reference photo of a commission I just received. I’m wondering if this positioning on a square canvas works? I’m worried there may be too much empty space at the top. I’m trying to avoid having a landscape orientation. I’d love to know your thoughts?

This is not a painting, it’s the edited reference photo.

Details

[Bill76434]

 The square format is good. Maybe a bit less space on the top and more dog to the bottom?

[LA Beggs]

That is so cool…is this your chosen career? However you decide to paint that adorable dog, I can’t wait to see it. 

[njnjgirl]

Maybe a bit less blue but this doesn't bother me.

[EmmaLee]

Bill - Thank you. I could try and move her up a bit and add more to the bottom, but I’m concerned it might be too much body. I’ll see what that would look like. It might be the best option.


Lynne- Thank you. I hope it turns out well. I don’t make near enough money to be able to call it a career. It’s just a fun way to make a little side money. 

MaryLou- thank you. If I make the dog any bigger to fill the blue area her ears will get chopped off.  I’m glad it doesn’t bother you, maybe it looks fine and I’m being overly critical. 

[TeresaM]

This composition is ok, the only thing I would say is that when you paint this, the dog has to be the hero and I  think that bright blue background is too strong.

Your paintings are always fantastic so looking forward to seeing the result.

[EmmaLee]

Thank you Teresa. I agree. The client asked for a light blue background, normally I would recommend a dark color.  I’ll play around with it and see if I can find a better choice of light blue.

[nolan]

it does have a bit too much white space. I would reduce it by a third.

I would however stick with the blue as that is what the customer has in their head so another blue may bother them.

[EmmaLee]

Thank you so much Nolan for the advise!