Commissioning a Portrait

Pastel portraits are created on Pastelmat, a paper specifically designed for use with pastels. I personally mat each pastel portrait so it is ready to insert into your frame of choice.

Acrylic portraits may either be created on a canvas or on primed art paper, depending on your preference. I recommend choosing canvas if you would like something ready to be hung without the need for framing, as I wrap the painting around the sides of the canvas for a finished look and I also install the hanging hardware before shipping. I recommend choosing primed art paper if you want to have your piece framed. Portraits on art paper will come pre-matted, simply requiring you to insert it into your frame of choice.

Pricing

Prices shown are for simple, single color backgrounds. If you would like a more detailed background, I can do so for an extra fee. Please reference the “detailed background” section of the pricing chart below for cost. Examples of detailed backgrounds and single color backgrounds can be found on my portfolio page,

Please note that pricing does not include shipping.

A 50% deposit is required before I begin your portrait. This deposit is non-refundable unless an unforeseen event on my part prevents me from completing your portrait. Once the portrait is finished, the remaining balance as well as the shipping fees are due prior to shipping.

Due to the custom nature of pet portraiture, I am unable to accept returns. However, I will send you progress pictures at three stages of the creation process, at which time requested adjustments to the portrait can be discussed and implemented. The third of these check-ins will be the last opportunity to request changes.

Pastel Portrait

*Quotes for other sizes available upon request

Acrylic Portrait

*Quotes for other sizes available upon request

Reference Photo Tips:

Lighting

* Well lit -- not so bright it washes out features or so dimly lit it makes features hard to see

* Best lighting tends to be natural, outdoor light in early-mid morning or mid-late afternoon

* Indoor lighting can make the picture too warm toned or too cool toned depending on the type of bulb

* Ensure your pet doesn't have a "flash effect" or "red eye" in his or her eyes

Quality

* Use a decent quality digital camera or a newer phone with a high quality camera

* Use reference photos that are:

High resolution
fully in focus
sent in their original format (cropping or editing can reduce resolution and/or photo quality)

* Taken from your pet's eye level, as this generally provides the best angle for portraiture

Angle/Perspective

For the best end result...

Send the photo of your choice as well as a few other reference photos.

-Extra photos can help ensure I get your pet's coloring and features as accurate as possible

-Simply let me know which of the photos is the main one you wish me to use.

If you have questions or concerns about the quantity or quality of your reference photos, please do not hesitate to reach out to me and we can work together to identify the best ones.

Example of a Good Reference Photo

Well lit, accurate coloring, high resolution, taken at pet's level

Example of a Poor Quality Photo

Blurry, dim yellow lighting, inaccurate coloring, unable to clearly see features on shadowed side of face

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