Commissioning a Pet Portrait

If you're thinking of commissioning a pet portrait, feel free to get in touch via email or my contact form. I’ll be happy to discuss your portrait, answer any questions, and let you know my current timeframes.

Step One – Secure Your Spot

Once we’ve discussed your portrait and you’re happy with the timescales, I require a 30% deposit to secure your place on my waiting list. This can be paid via PayPal or bank transfer—I’ll send you the paypal or bank details for payment.

Step Two – Choosing the Perfect Photo

Gather some high-quality digital photos of your pet,or take some new ones! Check out my photo guide for tips on capturing a great reference image. I’d also love to know your pet’s name and a little about their personality—it helps bring their character into the portrait.

Step Three – Selecting the Best Composition

Once you've sent over your favourite digital photos, I’ll review them and show you the layout I think will work best, you can

Step Four – Progress Updates & Final Approval

I’ll keep you updated as I work on your portrait and send you a final image once it’s complete. If you’d like any minor adjustments, I’ll be happy to make them. When you’re completely happy, I’ll request the final 70% payment before shipping.

Step Five – Shipping & Aftercare

Once the balance is paid, I’ll carefully package and post your portrait to you. I’d love to hear when it arrives safely and see a photo of it displayed in your home!

📩 Contact me:
✉️ gftoart@gmail.com
📍 Based in the UK – Shipping worldwide!

How to Take the Perfect Reference Photo for Your Pet Portrait

A great portrait starts with a high-quality photo! If the reference image isn’t clear, the portrait may lack detail and accuracy. Follow these tips to capture the best possible photo:

Avoid Filters

📵 No filters! Filters can change the natural colours of your pet’s fur, making it harder to achieve a true likeness in the portrait.

Get Close for Detail

📸 Take a close-up photo so I can see all the fine details when zooming in—without the image becoming blurry. Instead of using your phone’s zoom function, try moving closer to your pet for a sharper, higher-quality shot.

Keep It Sharp & In Focus

🔍 Make sure the image is clear and in focus. Blurry or out-of-focus photos make it difficult to capture your pet’s true features. Avoid using "portrait mode," as it can blur parts of their face.

Use Natural Light

🌤 Natural light is ideal for showing your pet’s colours and details accurately. Try taking the photo on a bright but slightly overcast day to avoid harsh shadows. Indoors, position your pet near a window with soft light on their face rather than behind them.

Send the Original Photo

📂 Always send the original image straight from your phone or camera—not one downloaded from social media, as these are often compressed and lower quality. High-resolution photos help me create the most detailed and lifelike portraits.

Take the Photo at Eye Level

🐾 Try to take the picture at your pet’s eye level rather than from above. This perspective creates a more natural and engaging portrait.