Make sure the subject is in focus, not over or under exposed and not too far away from the camera – if the subject fills most of the picture then you probably have a great photograph for a cutout
The background will be cut away from the main figures but try to have some contrast between the subject and the background – move the black Labrador puppy away from the black stable door.
Try not to cut off too many limbs on the left or right of the image – although a cutout from the knees or waist upwards works well.
Gun barrels, ski poles and fishing rods are extremely delicate once on a cutout. Try to ensure that these aren’t protruding in the air too much as they will be liable to break or snap off. See the sample photograph on this page.