Want to know more? FAQs Answered

Hello! I’m Hannah, a Glasgow-based pet portrait artist, and I’m excited to guide you through the exciting process of commissioning a custom pet portrait.

As someone who is passionate about capturing the unique personalities of pets through art, I understand that commissioning a portrait can raise a lot of questions. To make the process easier for you, I’ve put together answers to some of the most common FAQs from clients I’ve worked with.

Whether it’s your first time commissioning a portrait or you’re a seasoned art lover, this guide will help you feel confident and informed every step of the way.

1. How do I commission a pet portrait?

It’s easy! Start by getting in touch with me via my website or social media.

Once you’ve contacted me, I’ll ask you for some details about the portrait you want, such as the size, medium (pencil, coloured pencil, or digital), and any specific elements or themes you’d like to include.

I’ll also ask you to send over a few high-quality photos of your pet. If you’re unsure what makes a good photo, don’t worry! I can offer advice on how to take the best shots to ensure your portrait captures your pet’s unique personality. Once we’ve confirmed all the details, I’ll send you a quote and an estimated timeline, and we’ll get started!

2. What do you need from me to get started?

I’ll need a few things to get started on your pet’s portrait:

• Photos: Clear, high-quality photos of your pet are essential. Try to send pictures where the face is clearly visible and well-lit. Multiple angles are helpful, especially if your pet has unique features you’d like to highlight.
• Your preferences: Let me know if you have any specific requests regarding the background, pose, or style of the portrait. Do you want a soft, natural background, or would you like something bold and vibrant? Share any thoughts you have, and I’ll work with you to bring your vision to life.
• Details about your pet: Any information about their personality, breed, or favourite activities is helpful. This allows me to infuse the portrait with a personal touch that makes it truly special.

3. How long will it take to complete my portrait?

The timeline for your portrait can depend on a few factors, including the size, medium, and complexity of the piece. The drawing can vary from a few days up to 6 weeks for a commissioned portrait, although this can vary. If you have a specific deadline in mind (for example, for a gift), just let me know, and I’ll do my best to accommodate your needs.

I’ll also provide updates throughout the process so you can track the progress of your piece.

4. How much does a pet portrait cost?

The price of your pet portrait depends on the size and medium you choose. For example, a small drawing might start at around £45, while a larger piece, could be upwards of £150 or more.

I’ll provide a transparent quote based on your preferences and the specifics of your commission, and I always work within your budget to make sure you get the best value for your investment.

You can check out the pricing options on my commission page for more detailed information here.

5. Can I choose the background for my pet's portrait?

Absolutely! The background of your pet’s portrait is entirely up to you. Some people prefer a neutral, soft background that keeps the focus on their pet, while others want something more intricate or personalised. Whether it’s a peaceful outdoor scene, a custom design, or a stylised backdrop, we can create a background that complements your pet’s personality and the overall style of the artwork.

If you’re unsure what would look best, I’m happy to offer suggestions based on your pet’s look and vibe.

6. What’s the best way to photograph my pet for the portrait?

To get the most accurate representation of your pet, I recommend the following:

• Good Lighting: Natural light works best. Avoid harsh shadows or direct sunlight.
• Clear Focus: Make sure the photo is in focus, especially the face and eyes. Blurry or out-of-focus photos can be harder to work from.
• Multiple Angles: If possible, send several pictures of your pet from different angles. This helps me capture their unique features and personality.
• Close-Up: A close-up shot, particularly of your pet’s face, is usually best for capturing the details I need to create a lifelike portrait.

If you're unsure about which photos to send, don't hesitate to ask—I’m always happy to guide you!

7. What if I don’t live in Glasgow? Can I still commission a portrait?

Yes, of course! I work with clients all over the UK and beyond, so distance is no issue. Whether you're in London, Edinburgh, or anywhere else in the world, we can collaborate digitally. I’ll stay in touch via email or video calls to ensure your vision for the portrait is coming to life. When the portrait is finished, I’ll carefully package and ship your artwork to you.

8. Can I give a pet portrait as a gift?

Absolutely! Pet portraits make perfect gifts for any animal lover, whether it's for a birthday, anniversary, or just to celebrate a beloved pet. Many of my clients commission portraits as gifts for friends or family members. If you’re buying a portrait as a gift, I can include a personalised message or gift wrap to make it extra special. Just make sure to plan ahead—especially if it’s for a specific date, as the process can take a few weeks.

9. Can I request changes once the portrait is completed?

I always aim to get the portrait exactly how you envision it, so I offer progress updates throughout the process. This allows you to give feedback as I work on the portrait, ensuring that the final result meets your expectations.

If there are any minor adjustments needed after the piece is completed, I’m happy to make those revisions. My goal is for you to be completely happy with the final artwork.

10. What happens if my pet passes away before I get a portrait made?

I understand how painful it can be to lose a beloved pet, and many of my clients commission portraits as a way to preserve the memory of their pet after they’ve passed away. A portrait is a beautiful way to honour their life and celebrate the joy they brought to you. If you’re looking to memorialise your pet in this way, I’d be honoured to create a piece of artwork that reflects their personality and the bond you shared.

Final Thoughts

A custom pet portrait is not just an artwork—it's a tribute to the love and companionship that your pet brings into your life. Whether you’re commissioning a portrait for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, I’m here to help you every step of the way, from concept to creation. I pour my heart into every portrait I create, ensuring that your pet’s unique charm and character shine through in the final piece.

If you’re ready to get started on your pet portrait or if you have any other questions, feel free to reach out to me here.

I can’t wait to work with you and bring your pet’s personality to life through art!