Commissions
Realistic Animal & Pet Portraits
A portrait is more than a likeness—it is a way to preserve the character, personality, and presence of an animal and the connection they hold in your life. I create realistic animal and pet portraits in soft pastel, carefully observing the details that make each animal unique.
The Commission Process
1. Get in Touch
Tell me about the animal you’d like to have portrayed and share your reference photos. We’ll discuss your ideas, portrait size, and any special requests to determine the best approach for your portrait.
2. Review & Approve
After the details are established, I will provide the portrait specifications and final price for your approval. If your request falls outside the standard portrait options, I will provide a custom quote.
3. Sign & Reserve
Once you’re ready to move forward, you will review and sign the commission agreement and pay a 50% non-refundable deposit. Your commission is then reserved on my schedule, and work can begin.
4. Your Portrait Is Created
I will create your portrait in soft pastel, focusing on accurate likeness, character, expression, and detail. I’ll keep you informed as your portrait progresses according to the terms of your commission agreement.
5. Completion & Delivery
When your portrait is finished, the remaining 50% balance is due. Once payment is complete, your artwork will be prepared for pickup or shipping. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the client and will be discussed before the artwork is shipped.
Portrait Pricing & What's Included
9" x 12"
$450
12" x 15"
$600
What's Included
Standard portrait pricing includes one animal, a simple background, artwork materials, and applicable sales tax.
Custom Requests
Requests for custom compositions, multiple animals, different portrait sizes, or other special considerations can be discussed during the consultation process.
Before You Begin
Reference Photos
Please provide clear, well-lit photos that show your animal’s features and personality. See the Photo Tips & Reference Guide for help selecting the best images.
Human Portraits
I create animal and pet portraits exclusively and do not offer portraits of human likenesses.
Framing
Framing is not included. I’m happy to offer guidance on framing options for your finished artwork.
Shipping
Shipping is not included in the portrait price and is the client’s responsibility. Arrangements and costs will be discussed before shipping.
FAQs
What if I don't have a good photograph of my animal?
Contact me anyway. If you have several photos, I may be able to determine whether they provide enough information to create a successful portrait. In some cases, multiple photographs can be used together to capture the details and character of your animal.
How long does a portrait take?
Completion time varies depending on the size and complexity of the portrait and my current commission schedule. I’ll provide an estimated timeframe when your commission is scheduled.
Can you include more than one animal?
Yes. Multiple-animal portraits are available by consultation. Because these require additional planning and detail, they may require a custom quote.
Can you combine animals from different photographs?
Yes. I can work from multiple photographs to create a single composition, provided the images give me enough information about each animal. This type of request may require a custom quote.
Can I request a specific background?
Yes. Standard portrait pricing includes a simple background. If you have a specific background or more detailed setting in mind, we can discuss the possibilities and any additional cost before the commission begins.
Can I have a portrait framed?
Framing is not included with the portrait. I’m happy to offer guidance on framing options to help you choose an appropriate presentation for your finished artwork.
Do you offer portraits of people?
No. I specialize exclusively in animal and pet portraits.
Do you ship finished artwork?
Yes. Finished artwork can be shipped once the portrait is complete and the remaining balance has been paid. Shipping costs are not included in the portrait price and are the responsibility of the client. Shipping arrangements and costs will be discussed before the artwork is shipped.