If you are interested in commissioning a portrait of a pet, simply follow these steps.
Step 1
Take the best photos of your pet or pets.
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Step 2
Decide on the shape and size of your portrait.
Step 3
Use the 'Contact' page to order your commission.
Step 4
Email your photos and I will start painting your portait.
Further details of each step are given below - but if you would rather ring me first for an informal discussion, please do - 07766016517.
Step 1 - Take the best photos of your pet or pets.
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For you, this might be the most time consuming step of the whole process. Collect together some of your favourite digital photos of your pet - or take some new ones especially for your commission.
It is important that the images you choose are sharp and the fine details of your pet can clearly be seen especially the eyes, whiskers and nose. Make sure too that the colours of your pet are properly represented in each image. Photos taken on a smart phone in good light are often the most convenient to email.
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The best photos are those taken at eyelevel so you may have to crouch down or sit your pet up on something (if possible !!). Avoid taking photos outside in bright harsh light or using camera flash or dark corners. The best conditions are often outside on a bright cloudy day with diffused light, in a conservatory with a translucent roof, or by a window where there is not direct sunlight streaming through. An element of side light on your pet can also make for an attractive image. Take a look at the sets of photos of the dog and the cat to the right to give you an idea of suitable photos. All of these were taken on a smart phone indoors and outdoors.
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It is useful to have at least six photos - the more you email me, the better idea I will have of your pets personality.
Decide on a favourite pose of your pet out of the many photos you intend to send.
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If you have any questions about taking photos of your pet, feel free to give me a phone call and I would be more than happy to discuss it further. If you wish to email me some sample photos I will offer advice if needed.
Step 2 - Decide on the shape and size of your portrait.
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This will depend on where you intend to hang your portrait. Will it be the main feature on a wall or sit alongside other art work or perhaps hang by itself in a cosy nook?
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Do you envisage a rectangular canvas in portrait or landscape orientation, or a square format?
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The size of your canvas will also depend on the number of pets you wish to feature in the portrait.
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The canvas I use is deep edged and ready to hang.
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Step 3 - Use the 'Contact Me' page to order your commission.​
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Once you have decided on your portrait preferences, please use the 'Contact Me' page to email me or you can phone me if you prefer. (If I am unavailable, leave a message and I will aim to get back to you within one working day).
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I will contact you to discuss and confirm your requirements. To secure your commission and estimated completion date, I will request a 50% deposit. My preferred method of secure payment is through Paypal or iZettle. (Note: I do not take bank details over the phone and nor can I see your bank details through online payment).
Step 4 - Email me the photos of your pet and I will start painting your pet's portrait
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Once your deposit has been received, I will ask you to email your photos to me.
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I like to work closely with you and will send you photos at the following stages:
- initial sketch
- blocking of colours
- more detailed portrait nearing completion
At each stage, I invite your feedback and will make alterations requested. When you are happy with all of these three stages, your deposit becomes unrefundable.
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I will then complete the portrait and send you photos of it. Further minor alterations can be made at this stage. Once you are completely satisfied, I will ask for the final 50% of the cost of the portrait and, when received, I will send your portrait to you!
