Commission a Portrait

I use your own photos as a reference to create one of a kind custom portraits.

All portraits are meticulously hand drawn using the finest artist grade materials. These bespoke portraits make wonderful, unique gifts for any pet owner or a timeless memento of your own furry friend.

I can paint any subject, not just dogs and cats so please feel free to contact me with any specific requests.

Price Guide

I offer portraits in a range of sizes to suit your requirements and budget.

As standard, portraits are gift wrapped with an acid-free mount (cardboard frame) so they are ready to frame. Most are standard frame sizes so it should be easy to find a frame for your finished portrait.

The following prices are meant as a guide and include a blank or simple tonal background - the exact price will depend on a number of factors such as size, number of subjects, composition, level of detail and shipping costs - please contact me for an accurate quote.

Approx. Size 1 subject 2 subjects 3 subjects
8x6" (15x20cm) £130 - -
8x10" (20x25cm) £185 - -
10x12" (25x30cm) £225 £285 -
11x14" (28x36cm) £250 £315 £380
12x16" (30x40cm) £275 £350 £425

Photo Requirements

It's very important to me that I can capture the spirit of your pet and to do this I need good quality photos. I usually work from one main reference photo but it's always helpful to have more than one photo to ensure I truly capture your pet. I can also use several photos to create one portrait of multiple subjects.

Checklist for an ideal reference photo:

  • Lighting - Good natural/even lighting with eyes clearly visible. Colours should be true to life.
  • Detail - The photo is sharp, not blurry or pixelated when zooming in. Ideally a resolution of 1MB or larger so details like fur texture are visible.
  • Personality - The image should be true to life in likeness and ideally capture your pet's typical character e.g. playful, relaxed
  • Pose and Angle - For head/shoulder portraits, a close up image with your pet at eye level, with them looking at the camera or turned at a clear flattering angle. Ensure the photo includes all the parts you'd like in the portrait.

A few tips to taking the perfect reference photo:

  • Go outside (overcast days are best) or if this isn't possible, position your pet near a window.
  • Make sure the flash is turned off.
  • Get down to your pet's level so you are taking the photo straight on rather than from above.
  • Ask your pet to sit and use a treat or toy to encourage them to look in the right direction.
  • Try to get as close as possible whilst keeping your pet in focus .

Portrait example with photo

Timescales

When you contact me for a quote, I will also advise when you can expect your finished piece. Timescales can vary according to your requirements and how busy I am so please enquire in plenty of time if you have a target date in mind. If you're happy with the timeslot available I will add you to my waiting list and contact you a few weeks before I start to confirm details. At this point I will require a 50% payment to start your portrait; the balance will be due before collection/postage once you are happy with the finished piece.

** My next available portrait slot is currently April 2026 **

Artwork is packed in protective wrap and supplied flat in board backed packaging to prevent damage. All artwork is shipped via a trusted courier with appropriate insurance. Prices above exclude postage but I will include this in any quotes provided. I am happy to quote for international shipping. If you live locally to Skipton then you are more than welcome to collect your portrait in person.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Coloured Pencils

Materials

I use only the finest artist grade materials with proven lightfast qualities, meaning with the proper care, your portrait will last for generations without fading.

For coloured pencil portraits, I use a combination of Faber Castell Polychromos, Caran d'Ache Luminance and Pablo coloured pencils.

For pastel portraits, I use a mixture of Faber Castell Pitt pastels, Stabilo Carbothello and Derwent pastel pencils.

All portraits are drawn on Pastelmat which is a 360gsm premium, acid-free archival card surface available in a variety of colours.

Gift Voucher

Gift Vouchers

Looking for a unique gift idea?

I offer Gift Certificates for any amount which can be used as full or part payment towards a portrait. Please contact me for more details!