How to Order
Step 1: Size and Medium
Your first step for commissioning a pet portrait is deciding on what size and medium works best for you. Have a think about what kind of portrait you would like at this stage-would you prefer a closer-cropped bust portrait showing the details in that furry face you know and love? or a maybe a full body artwork? A good rule of thumb is that the closer the subject, the more detail is able to be included. Now as for medium, I offer colored pencil and pastel(and often a mix of both depending on the background) or if you’re drawn to a more painterly style, I can portray your pet in either acrylic or oil paint. (Oil paintings will greatly affect turn-around time, however, simply because there is a longer curing process)
All of my supplies are of the highest quality and lightfast so as long as they are handled correctly, will last for many years to come.
Click on the tab labeled, “Rates” and there you can find a list of my standard sizes and their prices. If you have a specific size in mind that is not listed, please get in touch with me for a quote. I offer single as well as multiple subject portraits.
Step 2: Choose Reference Photos
Good reference photos are essential for a quality artistic representation of your loved one-so please ensure that all photos are in focus, are taken in natural lighting(outdoors is best), and are taken from eye level. If you are inquiring about a portrait of a deceased pet and you don’t have many photos, I’m happy to take a look at any you do have. If they are useable, I will do my absolute best to create a loving memory of your lost one.
If you navigate to the main menu, there is a complete guide to help you take the best quality photos of your pet!
Step 3: Background
Try to envision what you’d like to see paired with your chosen reference-maybe a soft, blurry bokeh style would make your pet stand out nicely? or maybe the setting is important to capture and you’d prefer a detailed background rendering? Or you can always choose a classic portrait style vignette or a solid color which pairs perfectly with any pet!
I would be happy to take the reins if you’re uncertain or maybe slightly overwhelmed with all of the possibilities-after all, what artist wouldn’t love the chance to have artistic liberty?!
Step 4: Reach Out!
Please contact me via my Contact Form with the requirements for your portrait. Let me know if you need the artwork by a certain date if it is destined as a gift. I usually have a waiting list for commissions so it is best to give ample lead time and go ahead and book your slot early to avoid missing out, especially during busy periods such as Christmas.
We will work together and communicate selections of reference photos and composition for the bespoke artwork. Photos can be sent to My Email where you needn’t be shy about the number of photos you send, even if they aren’t all required, I would never turn down cute pictures of animals!
Step 5: Secure Your Booking
Once we’ve discussed the kind of portrait you have in mind, it is time to book your order. You can pay in full if you choose but I only require a 30% nonrefundable deposit to secure your slot. The remaining balance plus shipping cost will only be due upon the completion of your artwork prior to shipment. Payable thru PayPal, check, or money order.
Step 6: Creation Process
Once your booking comes up you will be notified. If you are familiar with my work, you have most likely seen that I like creating videos of my creative process on my social media accounts- I will keep you updated with these as I work on the piece so that you can watch it come to life! But make sure to let me know if your portrait is a surprise gift for someone so that I can keep your commission a secret until it has been formally gifted!
Once the commission is complete, I will request your delivery address. Your artwork will be shipped to your provided address insured & tracked. All commissions will arrive mounted, backed, with a certificate of authenticity, and packaged with care.
