Commission Information
Thank you for your interest in having me create a unique piece of art from one of your photos. A pet portrait is the most common request, but it is not the only option. If you have a photo of an animal that you would like to see made into a piece of art (for example, an elephant from an African safari), I can create that for you as well. If you do not have a photo, but have a specific animal in mind, I might be able to supply the reference photo.
I offer the following options: Graphite on white paper or colored pencil on white or colored paper. If you are not sure what would work best, then we can discuss your choices with our first communication.
Photo Selection:
I cannot stress how important it is to have a good quality photo. It is where I will get my information, since I will not be able to meet your pet in person. Even though one photo will be used for the pose, having multiple photos to look at is extremely useful. Fur and eye color, for example, may not show up well in your favorite photo, so having other images to refer to is useful for accuracy. Generally photos that are taken at eye level, rather than looking down at the pet give a more natural look. If I do not feel that I can create a quality piece of art from the photo(s), I will decline the work.
Poor Quality Photo
This little white dog is mostly in shadow which makes it hard to see details and accurate color. Part of ear is cut off and the body position is at an odd angle.
Good Quality Photo
Pet is at eye level, can see good detail on fur and eyes. Fur color is accurate.
Poor Quality Photo
Cat is pretty much at eye level, which is good. However, she is too far away to see much detail. The detail in the eyes is especially hard to see with any accuracy,
Good Quality Photo
This photo of a mountain lion was taken outside, which helps show the natural color of the fur.
Since I have discussed the importance of good photos, I should mention that due to copyright laws I cannot use photos that were taken by a professional photographer (such as a family portrait) without their written consent.
On that subject, as the artist, I retain the ownership of the copyright(s) of the finished artwork, and all reproduction rights.
Here is a list of my current pricing in U.S. Dollars: (I will need a 25% deposit upon starting the piece, with the balance due upon completion).
Size (inches)
8 x 10 or 10 x 10 (1 pet, head and shoulders)
9 x 12 or 12 x 12 (1 pet, head and shoulders)
11 x 14 (1 pet, head and shoulders or whole body)
11 x 14 (2 pets, head and shoulders)
Graphite
$250
$300
$375
$450
Colored Pencil
$275
$325
$400
$475
Prices include the finished work being placed in a mat (unframed) and a certificate of authenticity. Ready to get started? Contact me.
If you would like more than two pets, a background, a different size or any other special request, please contact me for pricing.
