Painting a Dog a Day Valentine Giveaway!!

2012's Dog a Day Valentine Giveaway winner Violet starred in her own 8" x 10" portrait, my gift to her family as thanks for following along with my paintings.       I love this time of year. Why? Because I get the honor of gifting a painting to someone special as appreciation for their support!   That's right, it's time for the Dog a Day Valentine Giveaway!   Here's how it works:   Send 2-3 clear, non-flash copyright free photos of your pet to me, using the subject line of "Valentine." Be creative in your photos - I will be looking for artistic merit, not just cuteness!!   JPG files (the photos you submit) should be at least 5" wide on the longest side and at 100dpi.   Entries must be received by midnight EST on Sunday, February 10th, 2013.   One entry (2-3 photos of same pet = one entry) per household, please.    Prior Valentine winners are not eligable to participate.   I will do my best to acknowledge receipt of all entries, but depending upon entry volume, it might take me a day or two.   View last year's finalists here.   Only photos submitted using the above guidelines will be considered. No exceptions, so please don't ask!   On Tuesday, February 12th, I will share the finalists' photos on the studio Facebook page, and on Thursday (Valentine's Day) I will reveal this year's Dog a Day Valentine via this blog.   The winning image will be chosen exclusively based on design elements apparent/inspired by the photographs and my own vision of what will make the best Valentines Day painting.    The painting will be sized according to the composition, at least a 5"x7" museum quality panel - this is a guaranteed prize of $289 or more!!   Winner is responsible for shipping costs or applicable taxes.   VERY IMPORTANT: By submitting your photos you are (1) guaranteeing that you own the copyright to the photos in question (meaning you took them yourself) and (2) granting me permission to use your photos/pet's likeness in a future painting. Thirdly, you have no obligation to purchase future paintings your photos or pet inspire, but you will have first right of refusal.   Now go, off with you, and take some amazing photos!!