The portrait of your pet will depend on the quality of the photos you submit. So, it is imperative that they are clear and have good lighting. While one great photo is sufficient, I am able to understand your pet’s personality and subtle characteristics with more photos.

Lighting is key, so photos taking during the “golden hours”, early morning or early evening are best. I prefer to paint a true portrait of your pet (head and shoulders) as the eyes are usually clearly visible. A portrait with well-lit and clear focus on the eyes is the key to capturing your pet’s essence and makes a successful painting!

I am usually able to eliminate unwanted backgrounds or elements like harnesses and collars if they are distracting, so do not worry if they are present in your photos.

If you are unsure the suitability of your photos, feel free to email me a selection and I can assess and provide guidance if more photos are necessary.

In the event that your beloved pet is no longer with us, I will do my best to work with the photos that you have.

I accept your commission once the deposit is received and that secures your booking spot in my schedule. Typically you will receive a photo of the underpainting (composition of the painting and an overview of colors) within 2 weeks. Keep in mind that this is a rough draft of your pet. This is the time to request any changes.

I work on several paintings at any given time because oil paintings require drying times in between paint and detail layers. The painting process can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks, longer for really large sizes.

Once the painting is completed, a photo of the final painting will be emailed to you for approval. Upon approval, the painting will need to dry for a few days before a glaze is applied.

In conclusion, I aim for the turnaround time to be 8 to 10 weeks. Times can vary to be shorter or longer depending on the size or complexity but I will strive to update you if there are any changes. If you need a painting done in a specific time frame, please contact me.

Yes! I am aware that paintings are often given as gifts and there may not be enough time to paint a portrait in time for a special event. Or perhaps a friend or family member recently suffered the loss of their pet and you wish to give a bereavement gift.

Gift vouchers in any amount can be purchased in my store (see Store page in the menu) or reach out via the contact me and select gift voucher. With either of the above options, a certificate for that amount will be emailed to you once payment is received.

The gift certificate will have instructions for the recipient to begin the portrait process of their beloved pet.

I paint portraits on both canvas and wood panels. The choice of substrate is up to you.

Canvas is the traditional time-honored choice of the masters. The tooth of the canvas holds the oil paint well. I paint on gallery wrapped canvases that have a 1-1/2” deep edge that will be painted to match the background of the portrait subject. Canvas paintings will be equipped with a hanging wire.

Wood panel is a more modern choice. I paint on panels that are fixed on a 3/4” birch wood cradle (edge). After the painting is complete and varnished, the cradle is stained to match the painting allowing the wood grain to show through. Wood panels are ideal for shipping as they are not easily damaged compared to canvas. Wood panel paintings are equipped with a hanging wire.

Both Canvas and Wood Panel paintings come ready to hang with wires attached to the back. I do not frame the paintings, however, both fit into “floating” frames which are available in many types and colors. I can send you links from art supply vendors on suitable size frames for you to order on your own should you choose to frame your painting.

Yes, I can paint multiple pets in one portrait. This is not available for small painting sizes and extra charges will apply. Prices for additional pets will be calculated upon reviewing reference photos and other considerations.

Yes, of course.  Often times you may want to remove a collar or elements in the background of the photo for the portrait painting. Because my paintings are priced on a simple painterly background, these things can be done at no charge.

If you have any special requests, such as adding a favorite toy or painting a detailed background, please provide me with additional reference pictures and explain your request. I can then quote additional costs and provide a digital mock-up for you.