However, many commissions are gifts and memorial portraits so don’t despair. Feel free to email me any of your photo’s before you commission a portrait and we can take a look and see what could work.
One of the most important things in commissioning your portrait is to ensure that I can work from a good photograph. I am happy to look through a selection of reference photo's.
The more detail in a photo the better your portrait will be. If you are local to Oundle I can arrange to take some photo's of your pet if you do not have access to a good camera.
Take the photo at eye level of your pet. The best angles are with your pet looking straight at you or with their head slightly tilted to one side looking past the camera.
If possible, take your pet’s photo in natural light, preferably outdoors. Avoid using flash if possible.
If possible, try to take your photo using a proper camera rather than from a phone. Photos taken using a camera often results in sharper, detailed and better lit photos.
Phone cameras in comparison tend to be less detailed and a little darker although I am happy to use photos from a phone if they are clear.
Gift vouchers are available for any amount.
For commissions I use Pastels on Clairefontain Pastelmat.
Sarah offers a variety of sizes to aid to a clients particular wall space or price range. Sizes include 8 x 10 Inches, 10 x 12 inches or 12 x 16 inches. If you require a different size, this is not a problem.
Due to the small size only one animal can be drawn in the 8 x 10 and 10 x 12 inch portraits. Two animals can be drawn in size 12 x 16 Inch. If you require a larger size or want to include extra animals please contact Sarah to see if this is possible (added elements to drawing will increase the commission price).
Please allow 1 week for 10 x 8 inch portraits, 1-2 weeks for 10 x 12 inch portraits, 2-3 weeks for 12 x 16 inch portraits. If you do have a time constraint let me know before ordering and I will confirm if I can get it too you on time!
Once finished artwork can be posted or collected / delivered depending on location. Shipping within the UK can be between two to five days.
Natural, clear lighting and your pet in focus with clear indication of details and features are preferred. Your pet looking directly at the camera or with head turned to a 3/4 angle make a better composition. Photos taken at a level angle or close to animals eye level work really well. If you are able to zoom into the picture to the size being drawn and still see a clear image this is ideal. The better the reference photo the better the portrait will be.
Very harsh or dark lighting. If your pet is moving while the photo was taken so your pet is blurry. Harsh angles – photos that are taken from above (your pet is on the ground and you are standing over them). Image of pet is cropped so part of their features are missing.
Yes, you can purchase a voucher by calling Sarah on 07834 468131 or email me.
No, due to shipping costs and handling, frames are not recommenced to be delivered with an original artwork. I am however familiar with custom framing and can recommend a variety of framers to suit your price range or style choices.