How To Order

Because of the "wiggle" nature of most pets, I work from clear, high definition photographs. I normally ask for several good, large photos so that I can see the true colors of the pet and I also ask for one with your favorite pose. You may either snail mail or email the photos. All hard copy photos will be returned.

If you are going to take new photos as painting references, it would be best to take them outside on a cloudy-bright day. This means there is plenty of light but no strong shadows or overly bright highlights. The use of a flash is discouraged because the colors don't come out very true to life and everyone knows how eyes look in a flash photograph!

Please try to have the camera on the same level as your pet and, if your camera has a zoom lens, step away from the pet then zoom in on the head and shoulders.

It would help to ask someone familiar with your animal to help with the photography either by holding the animal or by distracting him so you can get many good photos. With animals, it sometimes takes numerous photos to end up with just one good one. Also ask your friend if the colors in the photo actually represent your pet well. Sometimes an owner will look at a photo and automatically "see" it's colors even if they aren't actually there.

Remember, the portrait will only be as good as the photos used as references.

Because of copyright issues, I can only use photographs taken by you or by someone who will give me permission in writing to use them. I will not be held responsible for using copyrighted photographs. If you submit a copyrighted photo as a reference, any resulting legal actions will be your responsibility.

I make every effort to insure that you will be pleased with your pet portrait. You will receive progress reports either by email or on my blog and your comments are welcome. A final proof will be emailed to you when the portrait is nearly complete. Once the portrait has been started, it's extremely difficult to change so I encourage you to make sure the photos you send to me are as clear and as representational of your pet as possible.

The portrait/artwork copyright remains with the artist and the art may not be reproduced without written permission from the artist.