Question and Answers

Q1: How many photos do I need and how good do they have to be?

A: I can work from one photo if it is clear enough and if it accurately depicts the pet’s colouring and details, however photos often lie and for this reason it is better to supply a few photos. Often I use 1 photo for the composition and refer to other photos for eye and coat colouring. For head portraits the eyes are very important, please make sure the eyes are clear and don’t have the red eye, the clearer the photo the more detail I can render in the portrait. I don’t try to invent details or expressions where there are none. As this can lead to an unrealistic portrait of your pet, and it wont capture the true essence of your pet. So yes the photo is very important.

Q2: How do I send the photos and do I get them back?

A: You can send the photos’ to me by email, otherwise they can be sent by normal mail. If they are sent by normal mail, I will scan the photos and use it as my working copies; I will send your photos back to you in the same condition as I received them.

Q3: What size artwork is best for my pet?

A: When choosing an appropriate size for the portrait. The size refers to the dimensions of the paper not the actual drawn image. The size of the artwork must be large enough to allow an image of sufficient size to fully render all the detail necessary to capture your pets’ character and physical likeness.

Q4: Is there a standard price for all sized portraits

A: The price of a piece artwork relates directly to the amount of time required to draw the portrait. This can vary greatly depending on the subject, the size and detail of the drawing. There is often more involved if the photo is of poor quality or working from several photos. For this reason I always confirm the price after seeing the photos I am working from. The prices stated here in my website is given as a guide. As there are different sizes, each portrait is therefore quoted separately.

Q5: Who owns the copyright of the artwork?

A: Each piece of artwork is an original, the ownership and copyright of the drawing belongs to the client, I do not reproduce the image for profit, however with permission from you the client I may use the image on my website.

Q6 How long does it take to complete a portrait

A: The time for completed work will depend on how many portraits I am working on at the time
You will be given an approx. time of completion at the time of deposit.

Q7: How do you know the finished portrait will capture the physical likeness and the character of my pet, and not just look like any animal of the same breed.

A: this is a common concern for many people, who are considering commissioning a portrait of their beloved pet, my portraits are not intended to be photo realistic, they are however intended that the finished product will not only capture your pets physical likeness, but their character. I take a great deal of time and preparation with each portrait. I also take great care to render all the small details eg: {markings, fur, eyes} as I know the little things are what we remember of our pets. I do not send the artwork to the client until we are both happy with the end result.

Q8: Can I ask for changes to be made, when I see the final piece of artwork?

A: Yes you can
When I complete the portrait I scan or photograph and I then email or send a printed version by post to the client for your final approval. The purpose of this process is to ensure you are 100% happy with the finished portrait; it is at this stage that any comments, recommendations and changes can be made. I rely on your feedback to ensure that everything is accurate. The client’s satisfaction is paramount. Please do not hesitate to make suggestions on your portrait. As you know your pet more than anyone.

Q9: When and how do I pay?

A: Each portrait requires time and effort; therefore I require 50% deposit before I start the portrait. After the client approves the final portrait, the balance of the commission value plus the freight cost is paid and the artwork is sent. Payment can be made by
Cheque; Internet banking; direct deposit; money order or by cash.

Q 10: What about the framing of artwork?

A: The artwork does not come framed or matted, as this a personal choice made by the client. I would suggest that all portraits should be framed behind glass as to protect the portrait.