STEP 1. CHOOSING A SUITABLE PHOTOGRAPH.
Good quality photos (ideally digital) are the key to a great pet portrait. I cannot draw what I can’t see. This point really cannot be over emphasized. The photos need to be clear and the larger the better. If you have a single photo from which you want the drawing done that is fine but in reality, the more photos of the pet you have the better. I will usually work from one photo for the pose being used but other photos are useful for detail. If you have not already taken photos then try to take as many as possible, ideally in the type of pose that you are thinking of and when your pet looks relaxed. The photos should ideally be done outside but not in direct sunlight. Ideally try to take the photos from a height that is relatively level to the animal. If you would like a ‘head & shoulder’ study then please try to ensure that this is the focus of the shot.
If you would like more than one pet together in the same drawing, then try to get them together in the same photograph. I can do a drawing of 2 or more pets from different photographs but together is better as it encompasses the same light variables, size comparison etc. Most portraits will be done with a plain background but if you require some additional drawing to be included this can be discussed.
If you would prefer and if you are local, I am happy to come and take some photographs for you at a cost of £35.00.
Once I have your photos you can let me know what type of portrait you are looking for (size, style, configuration etc) and we can discuss any further design requirements and expectations.
STEP 2. CHOOSING SIZE AND STYLE.
I work in charcoal pencils and graphite only. Drawings are done on either Saunders Waterford watercolour paper (Charcoal) or Conqueror Archival card (Graphite). Choice of paper depends on the subject matter and the style of drawing you would like. Graphite drawings cost more as they incorporate more detail.
I can do your drawing in any size from A5 to A2. If need be, I can cut the paper to any size.
If you are wanting a full body drawing done of your pet then A4 is the absolute minimum size I would suggest, but ideally A3.
STEP 3. ESTABLISHING THE FINAL COST OF THE DRAWING.
I have highlighted the ‘approximate’ cost for each drawing size below but a final price of the unframed drawing will depend on the style of drawing (technique)and complexity involved.
could be agreed before commencing the drawing.
Check pricing below.
STEP 4. DEPOSIT
Once we’ve established the final price of the drawing, I will ask for a 50% deposit of the drawing cost to be transferred to my bank account. This upfront payment is required to secure the commissions place in my drawing schedule.
STEP 5. DRAWING PROCESS
I like to ensure you are happy with the composition of the drawing before commencing any detailed work. I will send you a photograph showing an outline of the main elements of the drawing before any detailed work is undertaken. Once approved I can get started.
Please be aware that timescales for finishing your drawing will depend on the amount of work already commissioned. If you need the drawing finished by a certain date, then please let me know on your initial contact so that I can advise if I can fulfil your request.
STEP 6. FINAL APPROVAL & PAYMENT
Once the drawing is completed, I will send you a photograph of the finished drawing for approval. I will then ask for the remaining fee and shipping charge to be paid.
STEP 7. MOUNTING & FRAMING
Please consider seriously if you want the drawing mounted/framed. If the drawing is a gift, it is likely that the recipient might want to choose the type of mount and frame. Even if the drawing is for yourself, I usually recommend the owner getting the drawing framed themselves.
