FAQ
Can I commission a custom size portrait?
Absolutely. I am happy to explore options if you have a specific vision in mind.
**Note that a special order of a larger size will reflect in the final cost of materials, careful packing and shipping.
Please contact me if you'd like to place an order for a piece larger than 18x24.
Can I have more than one pet in my portrait?
Yes, the the current prices of my custom work is based on one or two subjects per piece. Additional subjects will increase the final cost. It you'd like more than two subjects in your portrait, please contact me prior to ordering.
Can I customize the colors used in a commissioned portrait?
Yes, I will try to accommodate color requests, but please note that ultimately I will determine what colors will work best in the final piece.
I would like to comission a portrait as a gift and would need it by a specific date. How should I communicate this?
If your portrait needs to be completed in a specific time period, please contact us before placing an order to ensure the timing is possible. I am always happy to accommodate urgent gifts if time allows.
I would like to commission a portrait but don't have good photos at the moment. Can I place an order and send photos later?
Yes! Once an order is placed you will be added to the list so when you're ready to send photos, your portrait will already have a higher spot in line. Take your time! Finding the perfect photo in good lighting is not always easy.
Can you give me a few tips on capturing the best photos?
What I see directly influences what I create so the better the photo, the better the portrait.
*Sharpness is key:
The higher the resolution and sharper your image, the more detail I can include in your portrait. Blurry photos are very difficult to work with. In particular, make sure the eyes and direction of fur can be clearly seen. Choose photos that are taken within a reasonably close distance to your pet. This will help to ensure your photo captures lots of detail. If everything looks very fuzzy when you zoom in on your image, then the photo will be difficult for me to work from.
*Lighting:
The best photos are taken in natural light, preferably outside with the light source in front or on a cloudy day. Artificial light, and very strong sunshine often result in harsh highlights and over exposed images that won't translate well into an artwork. It's also best to turn off the flash on your phone or camera unless you want a very stylized piece of finished art.
*Perspective:
Photos are best taken at your pet's height, rather than from above or below, however if you have a photo you love that is from a unique perspective we can discuss whether it will make a good final artwork or not. Capturing the expressions of your animals is one of my highest priorities so if you have a silly expression caught from above or a squishy face from below or the side please send it and we can discuss whether it will work in an art piece or not.
*Creativity:
I am, personally, drawn to fun quirky images. I think they make the best portraits and bring your pet's personality to life. I’m sure your pet has a particular look or expression that makes your heart melt. Or has certain adorable features that you love. It could be his joyful smile, her soft gentle eyes, or his cute floppy ears. Keep those things in mind when you’re choosing or taking photos of your pet, as those will be the photos that will go a long way to helping me capture your pet’s true likeness in your portrait. Traditional headshots are always welcome, but I suggest to have fun with it!
Sorry, no humans. Animals only.
I don't live in the United States, do you ship worldwide?
I am currently only shipping to clients living in the United States through website orders.
Ownership of the Artwork: who actually owns the Artwork?
I retain all rights to all artwork I create. This includes the rights to the image of sold & commissioned original paintings. I retain the right to make reproductions of any and all artwork I create unless the collector has also purchased the full or partial rights to the artwork. To discuss purchasing the rights, please contact me. The collector or buyer may not reproduce the artwork in any way without written permission. If the artwork ends up being reproduced in a magazine or other media I only ask for credit. When you purchase an original painting you, the collector, have the right to display the artwork in your home or business but the artwork may not be resold or reproduced without my written permission.