General & Ordering Information:

Your satisfaction is of highest importance to me. No deposit is required, and I do not ask for payment until you have approved a final proof of the finished portrait.

HOW TO ORDER: After your initial enquiry, we first discuss your ideas and preferences of size and style. The next step is to look through your photographs (either posted or e-mailed) and come to a decision about the final details of the portrait. Once I begin painting, I send progress images in various stages as we go along, to ensure all looks just as it should. Please see creating a portrait for a little more about this process and an illustration of a painting from start to finish.

VERIFICATION: When the portrait is completed, I send a digital proof of the final painting to you via e-mail. Only if you are completely happy with this image do I ask for payment prior to shipment of the original portrait.

SIZES: Portraits may be any dimension you prefer, although I do tend to specialize in finely detailed paintings of 12 x 16 and under. I paint on 300lb acid free, archival cotton rag paper using the finest quality pastels. The finished painting is also sprayed with a fixative to ensure its safety and long life.

PHOTOGRAPHS: All of your photographs will be returned safely. Please remember, the detail of the final portrait is directly related to the quality and focus of the photographs you send (I've listed some tips on photographing your pet for ideas & suggestions). Extra photos are also suggested as these can serve as a reference for colouring, close-up details, and personality. Subjects, features, or backgrounds can be combined from separate photographs, and elements such as collars and leashes can easily be omitted. Please note: if your photos were taken professionally, you will need to ask the photographer for copyright permission.

TURNAROUND: Turnaround time depends heavily on the portraits I am currently painting, but I usually have a waiting list somewhere in the range of 4 - 6 months, and begin accepting Christmas orders a year in advance. If you do have a special date in mind however (such as a birthday), please let me know and if possible, I will endeavour to get the portrait to you in time.

A NOTE ON COPYRIGHT: Although I retain full reproduction copyright on each portrait, due to the personal nature of a commission piece I will not use an image for cards or art prints without the permission and understanding of my client.

Prices & Shipping:

I ship worldwide by UPS courier to ensure a safe delivery to your door. Each portrait is packaged with great care within a custom padded box, and for safety reasons does not include mat or frame. An Express option is also available for 1-2 day delivery worldwide. The rates below include courier shipping within North America and are listed in US dollars. Prices may vary slightly according to the specifics of each painting, but the majority of portraits fall under the rates below. Each portrait is also accompanied by a custom note card featuring your pet's portrait.