Question 1

What subjects do you paint?

Accepted Answer

While dogs and cats make up the majority of my commissioned work, I’m happy to paint any animal — no species is off limits.
Alongside pet portraits, I also accept commissions for landscapes, human portraits, wedding pieces, and prom portraits, always with the same level of care and attention to detail.
Pet portraits remain my most requested commissions, and they’re a real joy for me to paint.

Question 2

Do you work from photographs, and what makes a good reference image?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I work from photographs.
Clear, well-lit images taken in natural light are ideal, particularly where details such as eyes, fur, or facial features are sharp and in focus. I work from one main reference photo that we agree on for the pose and overall structure.
The background of the reference photo isn’t important, but good detail in the main subject is. Additional photos are very helpful and can be used for colour, markings, and subtle details.
If you’re unsure whether your images are suitable, you’re very welcome to send them over — I’m always happy to advise before we begin.

Question 3

What can you paint for the background of my pet’s portrait?

Accepted Answer

There are several options for the background of your pet’s portrait.
At no extra cost, I can create a simple, painterly backdrop designed to complement your pet and keep the focus on the subject.

If you’d prefer a more detailed setting, such as a garden, interior, or specific location, I’m happy to include this for an additional fee.

I can work from your reference photo, or design a unique background if you have something specific in mind. Once your deposit is received and work begins, I’ll send a digital mock-up (created in Procreate) so you can see how the finished painting will look before I start on the canvas.

Question 4

How long does a commission take?

Accepted Answer

Most oil portrait commissions take around 4–8 weeks to complete, depending on size, detail, and my current schedule.

Once the painting itself is finished, it will need a further 2–3 weeks for curing and varnishing before it’s ready to leave the studio. During particularly busy periods, I recommend allowing up to 12 weeks in total from start to delivery.

If you’re working toward a specific date, please let me know when enquiring, and I’ll always advise honestly on timings.

Question 5

Can I see progress photos of my painting?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely.
If you’d like to see progress photos as your painting develops, just let me know when placing your order. I’m happy to send updates by email as I work through the layers of your portrait.

I do sometimes share works in progress on social media or create time-lapse videos for YouTube. If you’d prefer your commission not to be shared publicly, or if it’s a gift you’d like to keep private, just let me know, and I’ll happily hold off.
All progress and approval images are watermarked. Whether or not you request progress photos, I’ll always send clear, high-quality images of the finished painting for your approval before it’s shipped.

Question 6

What if I’m not happy with the finished portrait?

Accepted Answer

Your satisfaction is very important to me.
I won’t ship your painting until you’ve approved clear, high-quality images of the finished piece.

If, at that stage, you’re not happy with the result, a full refund will be issued, less any non-refundable payment processing fees. In this situation, I retain full rights to the artwork, including the option to sell or reproduce it.
In practice, this has never been needed. I work closely with you from the outset, helping you choose suitable reference images and providing a digital mock-up for approval before work begins, to ensure you feel confident and happy throughout the process.

Once the final images have been approved and the painting has been shipped, refunds are no longer available unless the artwork arrives damaged. In that case, the painting should be returned in its original packaging for a full refund. Return shipping costs are the buyer’s responsibility.

Question 7

Is a deposit required?

Accepted Answer

A 25% deposit is required to secure your commission, with the remaining balance due once the painting is complete and approved.

Question 8

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

Once your commission is confirmed and we’ve agreed on the final reference image, I’ll send you an invoice.
Payment can be made via PayPal (which accepts most major credit and debit cards) or by BACS direct bank transfer.

Your invoice will include all the necessary details, allowing you to choose the option that suits you best.

Question 9

How is my painting shipped?

Accepted Answer

Your painting will be carefully packed and shipped fully insured.
Smaller to mid-sized works are typically sent via Royal Mail, while larger pieces may be shipped using UPS or another trusted courier, depending on size and destination.

I’ll let you know once your painting has been dispatched.

Question 10

How is my artwork presented and authenticated?

Accepted Answer

Each commissioned artwork is supplied with a signed Certificate of Authenticity, presented in a protective folder for safekeeping. A second certificate is securely affixed to the back of the painting, along with a stamped authentication mark.

Together, these provide clear confirmation of the artwork’s originality and provenance.

If you’re commissioning a piece as a gift, the certificates also make a meaningful keepsake to accompany the painting.

FAQ's

Commissioning Your Custom Portrait