The Process
Before I can even start work on you pet portrait I need high quality photographs to work from please follow these tips on how to get the best photos for me to work from to create your pet portrait.
To ensure I can achieve the best results for your pet portrait it is important that I can work from clear images which show the unique details of your particular pet such as the fur, eyes, markings etc. If possible it is always best to send three or four images pointing out which one is most true to their colour. If you wish to send me some new photographs and you are not experienced in capturing pets here are a few tips I hope you will find helpful:
- Photographs taken outside without flash or by a large window are the best to avoid red eye.
- Try to avoid a really sunny day as the sun will cast dark shadows on your pet and the photograph won't reflect their true coat colour. Likewise avoid a really dull overcast day.
- Ideally, take your photographs with your back to the sun, but try to make sure your pet isn't squinting
- Take your pets photograph at their level rather than looking down to avoid and distortion or an unnatural pose and make sure they are facing the camera if you want a head/head and shoulders pet portrait.
- Try to get as close to your pet as possible whilst staying in focus as this will give the maximum amount of detail and make painting the portrait easier.
Below you will see a couple of examples of what sort of photograph makes a good pet portrait. The quality of the photographs are essential for your pet portrait as I can only paint what I see!
Step 1
Placing an order couldn’t be simpler with three easy steps. However, before I can proceed I do need to see the photographs that you wish me to work from to ensure they are clear enough for me to produce the best results. Photographs can be sent in digital format via email at high resolution so they can be printed clearly or on CD by post.
Send all hard copy photographs by post only but don‘t scan them as it can change the colour considerably. Please see below for some simple tips on photographing your pet. It is essential to have good photographs (see right photo) in order to create your pet portrait. All photographs will returned with the completed portrait.
If you would like me to come and personally photograph the subject(s) AND live within a 10 mile radius of Sevenoaks in Kent I am happy to visit for the cost of my travel.
Step 2
Once I have checked the photographs and we agree on your requirements and delivery schedule I will ask for a 30 per cent, non refundable deposit of the agreed price.
I will then sketch out the form of the portrait and send to you via email or make it available for you to view online to check you are happy. If you wish I will send you up to two updates of ‘work-in-progress’ although once we have agreed the medium, style and format the majority of my clients prefer to wait for the completed work.
Step 3
On completion of your pet portrait I will ask for the balance which you can either pay by debit or credit card securely online through Paypal or by cheque through the post.
On receipt of payment (If you are paying by cheque I will wait for the cheque to clear) I will dispatch your finished pet portrait work using a reputable carrier.
To the left is a portrait of the above photo.
If you are interested in a pet portrait then please contact me via the 'Contact' section.
Please visit my prices page for an idea of how much you pet portrait will cost. I also have a selection of frames to choose from. I don't carry any frames in stock, but if you let me know what style you might be after I will be happy to help you choose or send you a link to my frame suppliers website.