Are you wondering what the process is like once you decide that you'd like me to paint your pet's portrait? I'll walk you through the process!
How Do I Get Started?
There are several ways to get in touch with me to get started. You can call, email, message me via Facebook, Instagram, or using the "contact us" section of my website, or you can start an order from my website shop.
Once We've Connected:
I'll ask for a few photos of your pet. I'll also ask a few questions about your pet's breed, personality, quirks, likes, dislikes, habits, and favorite people, or toys. I like to get a feel for their unique personalities before starting their portrait.
I usually work from photos because, while I'd absolutely LOVE to meet, and get personally get to know each of the pets that I paint, it's sadly just not practical. Don't worry if you don't think you're a great photographer, I'm always happy to help with pointers, and there's also a fun guide in another of my blog posts here.
If needed, I may ask you to take additional photos of your pet to show me special details. I want to get their portrait PERFECT!
Once We Have Good Reference Images:
If you haven't already chosen the paid in full option from the website shop, I'll request a deposit of 50% of the final portrait cost.
I try to offer my clients a few options for method of payment so that they can choose one that they're comfortable with. I use PayPal, Wix payment processing on my website, Square payments via credit card, and can accept personal checks (Be aware: paying by check does slow the process considerably because of mailing, and check processing times. So plan accordingly if you want to present a pet portrait as a gift.)
First Steps:
We'll discuss what you'd like your portrait to look like. You'll get to decide:
How much of your pet will be in the portrait. Will it be head and shoulders, or a full body portrait?
What should the background look like? You may want a white background, a simple color, a pattern, etc.
The Drawing:
I'll start the beginning drawing for your pet's portrait based on our discussions, and send you a picture of it via your chosen method of contact. You'll be able to make changes or suggestions, if needed, to be certain that the portrait meets your expectations.
Every Step of the Way!
Be forewarned, I'll be sending in-progress photos fairly frequently! I want you to be part of the process, half of the fun is in the creation. I'll ask for your feedback to be sure I've gotten the shape of the nose, color of the eyes, and lots of other aspects along the way. You'll never be left wondering what's going on.
How long does it take?
Typically, a head and shoulders portrait of a single pet, with a white, or simple background takes about 3 to 4 weeks to complete. Adding a more complicated background, including the pet's full body, or a painting of more than one pet can add a little more time.
Completion:
Once we're both satisfied that I've captured your pet's likeness, and personality, I'll ask for payment of any remaining balance.
Mailing:
It's time for your portrait to travel! I prefer to mail artwork via UPS with tracking, and insurance. If you live in the continental US, fees for both are already included in the purchase price for your portrait, so don't worry about any surprise charges. Unfortunately, international shipping has recently gotten much more expensive, and additional fees will have to be applied.
Your portrait will be protected in a clear plastic sleeve, wrapped in tissue paper, and placed in an art mailer box for protection. I prefer not to use tube mailers since it can be a little scary to try to flatten out a piece of artwork that has been rolled.
Delivery:
I have to admit, I'll fret the entire time that your portrait is in transit, and will breathe a sigh of relief when I get word from you that you've received your portrait.
When you've had a chance to study your portrait in person (photos give us a good idea of what things look like, but artwork has a special feel when you're looking directly at it.) I'll double check to be sure that you're absolutely satisfied with it.
In the box with your portrait, you'll also find a list of a few tips for framing, and caring for your pet portrait.
A Review:
It is by no means required, but I'm always extremely grateful when my clients can share their thoughts. Reviews go a long way toward showing prospective clients that they've found a trustworthy artist to work with.
You can choose to write a review on either of my social media pages (Facebook or Instagram) on my Google business listing, or you can send me your comments to post to the reviews section of my website.
If You're Still a Little Unsure:
If you're still not sure, or have any questions about the process, I'm more than happy to chat! Get in touch via your preferred method from the "How Do I Get Started" section at the very top of this article.
I look forward to talking to you!
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