Choosing A Photo

I work directly from a photographic reference provided by you. In order to get the best painting possible, it is really important to have clear, high-resolution photos to work from. Digital photos are best but I can work from traditional photographs as long as they are suitable. I recommend whenever possible having many photos to send me and allowing me to choose the best one to suit the painting for you. (Some photos make great photos but not great paintings) For portraits of two or more subjects whenever possible, it is best if they are in the same photo to work from but it is not always necessary. If you send me traditional photographs I will of course send them back to you with the finished work. For both people and pets please make sure their eyes are open so I can see them (squinting doesn’t make a great portrait for either species.) Closed eyes are fine provided that is the look you are going for.  The best reference photos are taken without flash in natural light and typically level with the subject. (Sometimes photos from above a pet work when they are looking up at you but sometimes it can really skew the look of them if their ears have flopped back etc)

Choosing a Size & Price

Generally, the smallest size I like to work from is 8x10 for a single head and shoulders portrait. All prices listed are for a single-subject head and shoulders portrait.  Full or partial bodies of dogs or people are an additional charge, as are detailed backgrounds, objects, or complicated patterns in clothing or furniture. Adding an additional person or pet to a painting is typically an additional 50% of the painting cost. If you have details like clothing etc that are to be included it is best to size up.