FAQs . . . . .
How long does a portrait take?
At the time of paying the booking fee I will give you an idea of the expected completion date and I contact you the week for I start the portrait. Typically I allow 2 weeks to complete a portrait for a single animal.
How much does a portrait cost?
My prices start at £110 for a single animal. Please refer to my price list for larger portraits and multiple animals.
Do you offer a payment plan?
Yes, I’m really happy to accept staged payments at a level to suit you so long as 50% of the total cost is paid by the time I start the portrait and the remaining 50% is paid on completion. I’m happy to adjust my timescales to meet your financial planning if that’s helpful to you.
Can I have a portrait with more than one animal even if I don’t have a photo of them together?
Absolutely!
It’s not always possible to get two (or more) animals to sit and pose for a photo together so I’m more than happy to work from multiple photos. Or you may want a portrait with a current pet and a memorial portrait in the same drawing for instance. Just send as many photos as you like and I will prepare a mock up or two for you and we can agree on the best composition.
What pose makes for the best portrait?
I have detailed advice for taking or sourcing images but in summary:
Be on eye level with your pet
Good natural light
No strong shadows
As close as you can
The higher the resolution, the better the outcome will be (so send photos in their original size, not compressed)
What if my favourite photo doesn't show the colours accurately?
It’s no problem, I’ve often worked from one photo for the pose and others for the colouring
What materials do you use?
I use professional grade pencils from the following suppliers: Faber Castell, Caran D’Ache and Derwent and all have good lightfast ratings. I also use archival ‘papers’; mostly I use Clairefontaine Pastelmat and Grafix drafting film.
Can you provide a frame?
I don’t provide frames because framing is a personal choice and will depend on the style of the room where the portrait will be placed. All portraits are supplied mounted in an off-white mount with a backing board ready to frame. I use standard size mounts to make it easier for framing. I will include care instructions with your portrait.
How much is postage?
I charge £7.50 towards the cost of postage and packing.
Currently no, but if you’re not in the UK and you’re interested in a pet portrait please contact me and I will happily look into it for you
Do you post overseas?
Can I collect from you?
Yes, I live in Chineham on the outskirts of Basingstoke and I’m more than happy for you to collect - it would be lovely to meet you!
Any questions not covered here?
Please just contact me