The Process

Ordering a scratchboard portrait is a fairly straightforward process. The most important thing is the photograph I have to work from.

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Step 1

The first step is to contact me with the photographs you would like me to use for your pet drawing. It is very important that they are high resolution images that are taken without flash. 

After reviewing your photos I will decide if they are suitable to work from. It is quite useful to have more than one photo. I will pick one main photograph to work from and then some candid ones with a little description are so helpful for me to get a good idea of your pets personality. This helps me create the best pet portrait for you.

I can accept photos via email or snail mail if it is easier for you. Mailed photos will be returned with the finish portrait. 

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Step 2

Typical scratchboard portraits are head and shoulders only and are 8x10". If you are interested in a fully body portrait, multiple pets in the portrait, or a background, we can negotiate. 

I require a 50% deposit for your portrait and will give you an approximate completion date. The balance is due when I send your final scan to approve. Please browse my portfolio to view the many and varied pet portraits I have done over the years. 

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Step 3

When the portrait is complete I will send a digital copy via email for your approval. At this point you can let me know if there are any revisions that need to be made. I offer 3-4 revisions after which I may charge extra for the extra time. 

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When the portrait has been approved, I will sign the drawing and arrange a convenient delivery date. 

 

Quick Recap of the main things you need to know when ordering a pet portrait:

• Scratchboard portraits from photographs in good resolution and no flash

• Favorite photograph of your pet with some fun candid ones included

• Head and shoulders only or full body

• Plain background or scenic background

• Is there a specific deadline? Please allow at least two months when commissioning a pet portrait

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Taking Photos for your Pet Portrait

1. Taking photos for me to create your scratchboard portrait is the most important part of the process. The reference photos are essential for me to capture those important details and personality that makes your pet unique. My ability to capture your pet's personality in my portraits depends on good quality portraits. 

2. No flash! When you are taking photos for your scratchboard portrait please do not use flash. It can drastically change the color of your pet and can cause green highlights in their eyes which can be impossible to work around, making it difficult to create a true representation of your pet.

3. Natural lighting is best. Avoid a really bright sunny day; position yourself so the sun is behind you, but ensure that your pet isn't looking into the sun and squinting. Overcast days are ideal!

4. Get on your pet's level, or raise them up if they are small and you don't want to crawl around on the floor. This is essential for avoiding strange angles and camera distortion for your scratchboard portrait. 

5. Get in close to your pet. I need a close up in order to capture details, eyes, etc. 

6. I do many portraits of pets that have crossed the rainbow bridge. Please contact me to discuss the photos you have. If the quality of your photos isn't ideal, I would be happy to review them with no obligation. If you are sending me original copies, consider sending them special delivery. All photos will be returned with finished pet portrait.

Please view my portfolio to see my past work.