How It Works – Commission Your Pet Portrait
Commission your very own pet portrait in 4 easy steps.
Follow the step-by-step chart below for an overview of the process. Read in full about the commissioning process for my pet portraits in oils or pencil.
Step 1: Choose a Photo
Choosing the perfect photo is an important first step. I recommend selecting your favorite image — one that really captures your pet’s character, whether it’s a cheeky expression, their soulful eyes, or simply a pose that feels so them. The clearer and more natural the photo, the better the result.
If your pet has sadly passed away, don’t worry — just send me everything you have. I’ll go through them with care and help you decide which one will work best for your portrait. You can find more guidance on what makes a great reference image on my Photography Tips page.
Step 2: I create a mockup-up
Based on the photo or photos I are going to use for the pet portrait, I will create you a mockup of how your portrait could look. This could mean the removal of a background in the photo, removal of collars, the addition of cropped ears or tail or putting two dogs together etc. This is an important spate and is a dialog between ourselves and the client, and it means everyone involved is clear how the end result will look.
Step 3: I Create the Artwork
Once I have started your portrait, I will send you a secure invoice to pay the final total. Nicholas paints all the oil portraits on canvas, and I draw all the pencil portraits on handmade Italian paper. I work together in my garden studio with Lily, my Tibetan Terrier, usually curled up nearby on one of her many beds!
Step 4: Final Approval and Delivery
When your portrait is finished, I take clear photos and email or message them over for you to see. If there’s anything you would like adjusted, I can make tweaks at this stage before it’s packed and sent.
Once you are happy, I will carefully package your portrait in a presentation box with tissue paper and ribbon — ready to give as a gift or to unwrap and enjoy yourself. I take care to make it feel special from start to finish.
The portraits are wrapped in foam wrap and placed in a double-walled cardboard box. This makes the whole package safe and secure to travel, quite often, thousands of miles on its journey all around the world, safely to your home. I send my portraits on an express tracked service both overseas and within the UK. If you have any questions, you are more than welcome to contact me at any time.
What’s Included in Every Commission
My comprehensive service ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience from start to finish, with professional guidance every step of the way.
Complete Service Package
- Photo Consultation: Advice on selecting the perfect photo
- Progress Updates: Regular photos showing development
- Final Approval Process: Adjustments on completion if required
- Presentation Packaging: Gift box with tissue paper and ribbon
- Worldwide Free Shipping: Fully tracked delivery
- Same Day Response: Quick replies to all enquiries
No hidden costs – everything is included in your commission price. Professional service with personal attention throughout the entire process.
Pet Portraits FAQ
Portraits take anywhere from 1 to 2 months from booking to delivery. This depends on the size, medium (pencil or oil), and my current schedule. I will give you an estimated completion date when you book. Pencil drawings are often completed more quickly than oil paintings, which require drying time between layers.
I start with your photos and any special requests you have. From there, I create either a pencil drawing or oil painting entirely by hand – no digital tricks, just traditional techniques. You will receive updates as your portrait comes to life, and I will send final photos before it’s packaged and shipped.
Prices vary depending on the size, number of pets and level of detail. You can find a full breakdown on my pricing page.
Absolutely – and not just because I say so! My clients often tell me their portraits are among their most treasured possessions. A custom portrait is timeless and deeply personal, capturing a beloved pet’s personality in a way a photo simply can’t.
This depends on how much detail you wouldd like and how many pets are included. A 12×10″ size is perfect for a single head and shoulders portrait. Larger sizes allow for full body poses or multiple pets. I am always happy to advise based on your photos and preferences.
It starts with your enquiry and photos. I will discuss composition, style and size. Once you are booked in, I begin sketching or painting, sending updates along the way. Once completed, I will share a photo for your approval, then package your portrait with care and ship it to you.
Commission a Portrait
Send me your favourite photos of your dog, cat, or horse, and I will help you choose the perfect one for your portrait. I am happy to chat about any ideas you have for a portrait. I can’t wait to get started!