Please visit the gallery for closeups of the above portraits.
I enjoy doing pet portraits. When I was growing up, we always had a dog, a cat, or both! Every year we took extra-long vacations on a farm in Vermont: horses, cows, dogs, chickens, cats, rabbits, goats, and lots of other friends. Animals can provide us with enjoyment and company, but our pets offer us something extra special, something personal, something unique— that’s because they’re uniquely created. It’s what I love about pet portraiture. Each pet has its own nature and personality, which makes them distinctly yours.
Would you like to commission a pet portrait?
Maybe you’re considering a pet portrait. It’s an easy process! From start to finish I will guide you and stay in close contact. Commissioning a portrait is about you and your pet. I want you completely satisfied and I look forward to any comments, questions, or suggestions you might have along the way!
I put the following information together to make your experience as informed and enjoyable as possible. Please take some time to read the following sections:
How do you begin?
- Once you decide to commission a pet portrait, simply contact me via email to set up a time to talk about your ideas.
- Be sure to let me know your pet’s name and send me a few photos (see Pet Portrait Photo Tips for guidance)
- I will provide an anticipated start date for your portrait, notify you when it’s started, and email or txt progress notes with photos throughout the process
How long will it take to get your portrait?
Each portrait takes many hours—often as much as 25-30 hours for one portrait! I do them on a first-come basis. Depending on the number of portraits in front of yours, it may take four to six weeks before I finish, but hopefully sooner.
How much will your portrait cost?
Typically, I draw dogs or cats, but I’m willing to discuss doing other animals. This being a portrait, I tend to include one pet per picture and focus on their head and shoulders. We can certainly talk about including more than one pet in the same picture.
I draw all portraits using artist-quality materials (for more detail please see Materials). I prefer 11×14— going smaller starts to reduce details. While the cost of each portrait may vary, I have two base prices: one for black & white and one for color (see Pricing for more detail).
Current Base Prices for One Pet
Black & White: $155.00
Color: $255.00
The above prices assume one small animal (e.g., dog or cat) and do not include framing or shipping. I ship via USPS or UPS and only charge for my costs (see pricing for more detail). Although some folks have requested that I matte and frame their portrait, most people prefer picking out their own frame (i.e., color, matte, style, etc.). However, I am open to discussing framing alternatives with you.
I guarantee satisfaction (Please see Cancellations & Returns for more detail).
What can you expect?
- After you agree to have your pet’s portrait, I will first draw an outline and either email or txt you a photo to see if you like the basic shape and position.
- You will receive progress photos and notes from me as I move along. The second photo will show the eyes completed. I believe it’s important to capture your pet’s eyes correctly. At this time, if you agree to continue, I will ask for 1/3rd of the total agreed upon price as a deposit. I will already have 5+ hours of work into your pet’s portrait.
- It takes days for me to draw a portrait, but I will periodically send digital pictures reflecting progress—and I will likely ask for your thoughts along the way.
- I want this to be an enjoyable experience and I will welcome any input!