Pet Portrait FAQs

I'm a pet portrait artist working from my home studio near Lincoln, Lincolnshire. I create watercolour pet portraits of dogs, cats, rabbits and more, for families locally and across the UK (as well as the occassional international commission too!)

The cost of a pet portrait depends on the size of the painting and the number of pets

For full pricing details, please see my price list.

If you have any questions or would like guidance on the best size for your pet, don’t hesitate to contact me — I’m always happy to help!

Most pet portraits take 1-2 weeks to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the painting.

Because my schedule can fill quickly, especially during busy periods, it’s best to get in touch early. 

Tip: If you’re planning a portrait as a gift or for a special occasion, contact me well in advance to ensure it’s ready on time — this also gives plenty of opportunity for photo selection and approvals.

Special note: If you already have all your photos prepared, and the painting is straightforward, I may sometimes be able to complete a portrait within one week. Please contact me to discuss your timeline.

 I rarely work from just one photo — in fact, I encourage you to send several. This gives me the best chance to capture your pet’s unique personality and features.  

Once I’ve seen your photos, I can advise you on which image will work best for the portrait.  

Tip: High-quality photos showing clear details, expressions, and markings help me create a portrait that truly reflects your pet.  

For more guidance on taking or selecting suitable reference photos, see: Tips for Photographing Your Pet. 

I most commonly create dog and cat portraits, but I’ve also painted rabbits, horses, and a variety of other animals.

I’m happy to take on any type of pet, including feathered friends like birds or scaled pets like reptiles. If you have a unique or unusual pet, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — I love capturing all kinds of personalities in watercolour.

Tip: Providing clear, high-quality photos really helps me create a portrait that captures your pet’s unique character, no matter what type of animal they are.

Absolutely - I'm honoured to create memorial portraits of pets who have passed away. These portraits can be a beautiful way to celebrate and remember your beloved companion.  

To create the most accurate and detailed portrait, I’ll need some high-quality reference photos. I understand this can be challenging when your pet is no longer with you, but you’re welcome to send as many photos as you need until we find the right ones. You can attach them via my contact form.

Tip: Photos showing your pet’s personality — favourite expressions, poses, or special markings — help me create a portrait that truly reflects them.  

For guidance on choosing and preparing photos, see: Good Quality Reference Photos. 

Before starting your commission, I require a 25% deposit. This deposit is non-refundable once I've started your portrait, but I'm happy to refund it if you change your mind before I begin painting. 

Once the deposit is received, I’ll begin creating your portrait. When your painting is finished and you’re 100% happy with it, the remaining balance is can be paid.  

Payment can be made via:  

• Bank transfer
• PayPal  
• Cash (if collecting your portrait in person)   

Tip: Paying your deposit early lets me start work promptly and ensures your portrait is created with care from the very beginning.

Postage and packaging costs vary depending on the size of your portrait and your location. I take great care to package every painting securely, so it arrives safely and in perfect condition.  

For detailed pricing, please see: Postage and Packaging Costs. 

REMEMBER: If you live local to Lincoln, I'll be happy to discuss options to collect or meet at a suitable location within Lincolnshire.

Absolutely! Meeting customers in person to hand over their portraits is always a delight, and it’s even more special when I get to meet the pet I’ve been painting over the past few weeks.  

I’m based in Lincoln, and you’re welcome to collect your portrait from my home. 

Alternatively, we can arrange a convenient location in Lincoln or the surrounding Lincolnshire area to meet.

 Tip: Collecting in person is a wonderful opportunity to see your portrait up close, ask any questions about framing, and even take a few photos with your pet. 

Portraits are sent in a lightweight presentation frame, using Perspex instead of glass. This reduces the risk of accidental damage during delivery and keeps postage costs reasonable.

Exceptions:  

• If you are collecting your portrait in person, I can present it to you in a complimentary frame, with glass rather than perspex.
• Please note: While the presentation frames are perfect for display, I still highly recommend having your portrait professionally framed for long-term preservation, especially if you want archival-quality mounting.

Tip: A professional framer can ensure your portrait is mounted securely, protected from sunlight and humidity, and displayed beautifully in your home.  

For more information on framing options, see: Framing Information 

To cherish your pet portrait for years to come, it’s important to handle and display it carefully. 

Original watercolour paintings are delicate, so consider the following:  

Framing: Choose a professional framer to ensure your portrait is mounted securely and protected from dust, moisture, and shifting over time.  

Avoid direct sunlight: Sunlight can fade watercolour pigments over time, so hang your portrait in a well-lit but shaded area.

Control humidity and temperature: Keep your portrait away from damp rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, or direct heat sources like radiators and fireplaces. 

Handling: Always handle the artwork with clean, dry hands or gloves to avoid smudges or oils on the paper.   

Tip: Lightweight presentation frames are perfect for safe delivery, but a professionally framed portrait will provide the best long-term protection and display.