Commission... how it works
My pet portraits are created on a commission basis for clients all over the UK. I specialise in realistic style drawings with a focus on bright sparkly shiny eyes. I always say "eyes are the window to the soul"!
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I use only the highest artist grade pastels (Faber-Castell Pitt and Carbothello Stabilo) on Clairefontaine Pastelmat artist grade paper. I occasionally do a gouache wash background to add vibrancy, which again is of the highest artist grade quality (Schmincke).
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If you are interested in commissioning me to produce a beautiful portrait of your furry friend, please continue reading to learn more about this process!
Deciding on a photo
The first thing you will need to do is find a really good quality photograph of the pet you wish to be drawn. I specialise in head shots but I can produce a full-body portrait if you'd prefer this. The best photos are usually taken outside or in a well-lit (with natural window light only) room. I need to be able to see the pet's eyes clearly. I will usually base the portrait off of one photo, but it can be very helpful for me to see other photos as reference - so if you have more, please feel free to share them with me. The quality of the photograph is really important, so if you can send me a copy of the original digital file in full resolution, this works best! Please don't send me screenshots, as the quality is much less in these and it can be hard for me to see the details.
If you really aren't sure whether a photo will be good enough or you're having trouble deciding between photos, I am more than happy to advise!
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Deciding on a size
The second thing you will need to do is decide on what size you would like your pet portrait to be. I generally work to standard A paper sizes, but I can do other shapes and sizes too! My most popular size is A3. I will draw your portrait to the chosen size in the centre of a slightly larger piece of paper, so there is a thick edge around it. This is so that the portrait can be trimmed down, when framing.
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GET in touch
It's now time​ to get in touch! The best way to contact me is to drop me an email at:
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Tell me you are thinking of getting a pet portrait done and let me know your ideas for size and also attach the photo/s.
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I will have a look at the photos and will work out your individual quote based on the size and the amount of detail in your photographs (I have to price my art this way since, for example, lots of tiny details will take up more of my time and use more of my pastels). I usually leave the background plain, but if you wanted a background included, I can do this - please just let me know.
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Your quote
Once we have both agreed on your quote price and the deadline of when you will need the pet portrait by (please allow plenty of extra time for framing and wrapping, if it is a gift!), I will need your full payment before I start working on your portrait. You can pay in instalments if you wish; but I won't be able to make a start until I've received the full payment.​ I accept bank transfer or Paypal and I will send you an invoice and receipt.​
Progress shots
You can choose to see progress photos throughout or wait and see the finished portrait once it's complete. ​
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I will often take progress photos and videos as I go along as I will share these to my social media once your portrait is complete (if your portrait is a gift, I won't share any shots before the recipient has their finished portrait with them. I don't want to ruin the surprise!).
completion
Once your pet portrait is complete, I will send you some high quality photos of it. Once you are 100% happy with it, I will 'fix' your portrait with a high quality artists' fixative spray, so that it can't get smudged during framing. I will then package it up and arrange delivery.
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postage, packaging & delivery
I will wrap your portrait with clear film and secure it in well-cushioned box. I will include a signed certificate of authenticity in the packet. This is included in the price.
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If you live nearby, I may be able to deliver your portrait to you myself (depending on location). Otherwise, I can post via Royal Mail or any other courier you prefer (this is not included in the ​price so you will need to pay postage). Usually this is no more than £5, but I can let you know in advance.​
FRAMING
I don't routinely provide framing, but I can advise on framing. Ideally you will want an archival standard frame, to protect the longevity of the artwork.​