Dog Portraits

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Commissioning a Portrait - FAQ

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• How does this work?
• How do I get the photos to you?
• How much does a commissioned portrait cost?
• What adds to the cost?
• How do I know how much it will be?
• Will I be able to see the work in progress?
• What types of photos work best?
• What if I want two animals from two different photos?
• Can I send a professional photographer's picture?
• What about the size of the finished work?
• What about prints and cards?
• Can I choose a background that works with my décor?

Q: How does this work? 

A: I normally work from photos that my clients provide. Occasionally, if the opportunity presents itself, I will take my own photos of the subject.

Q: How do I get the photos to you?

A: Mail the photos to me or E-mail them as an attachment. Mailed photos will be returned to you.

Q: How much does a commissioned portrait cost?

A: Most portraits of a single animal run about $150-200 (not including shipping). Most people portraits start at $250 (for a head and shoulder portrait).

Q: What adds to the cost?

A: Things that add to the cost of the work include the following: a second pet, an extra person, a detailed background, anything that may make the work significantly more time consuming. Also, any work that requires special materials, such as larger, specially ordered paper for oversized projects, will add to the cost.

Q: How do I know how much it will be?

A: Once I've seen the photos and determined what you want, I will give you an estimate.

Q: Will I be able to see the work in progress?

A: If you have E-mail and the ability to open attachments, I can send a digital image of the work in progress.

Q: What types of photos work best?

A: Clear, close-up photos, taken in natural light, work best. The use of flash fades the colors and darkens all shadows. Also, animals should be taken at their own height (top of the head shots are not very useful). If you wish to use a professional's photo, you must obtain their permission.

Q: What if I want two animals from two different photos?

A: Often I can combine two photos if taken in similar lighting. (See "Cole and Maggie" below, left.) If it is not feasible to do this, I can always do separate vignettes like the portrait "Linda's Girls" (below, right).

Q: Can I send a professional photographer's picture?

A: If you wish to have me use a professional's photo for anything other than color reference, you must obtain their permission.

Q: What about the size of the finished work?

A: Most of my work is approximately 16" x 20", but the range can be as small as 11" x 14" to as large as 24" x 30". The more people or animals in a picture, the larger it needs to be.

Q: What about prints and cards?

A: I can have authorized reproductions printed for you. I reserve the right to sell prints and cards of commissioned animal portraits. I will not, however, sell prints and cards of people portraits except to the person who commissioned the work, or someone who has your written permission.

Q: Can I choose a background that works with my décor?

A: I will be happy to use background colors and subjects that compliment your surroundings.