• Graphite: $200 (add $50 for additional pet in the same artwork). Maximum of 3 pets.

• Coloured pencil: $300 (add $50 for additional pet in the same artwork). Maximum of 3 pets.

Coloured pencil pet portraits are priced slightly higher due to the level of detail involved. Achieving smooth gradients, vibrant colors, and detailed shading with colored pencils often requires more layers and blending, which can significantly increase the time it takes to complete a piece.

I draw pet portraits with either graphite or coloured pencils. Artwork completed with graphite will be black & white (no colour), and artwork drawn with coloured pencils will be in colour.

The paper size is A4 (21cm x 29.7cm / 8.3” x 11.7”). If the artwork has 1 pet, it will be drawn in portrait orientation, if the artwork has 2 or 3 pets, they will be drawn in landscape orientation (unless otherwise discussed).

It generally takes 2-3 weeks to complete a portrait. This time frame is an approximation and does not include shipping time nor does it include the time it takes for the artwork to be reviewed and approved by you throughout the process.

Portraits drawn with coloured pencils or featuring more than one pet will have a longer completion time.

Once you have decided which photo you’d like to use as reference and whether you’d like the portrait to be drawn with graphite or coloured pencils, I’ll be able to quote you a more accurate time frame depending on my availability.

Very easy! Just email me with a clear photo of the pet or pets that will be used as reference for the portrait along with any details of what you would like, for example; headshot portrait or full body portrait, with or without the collar etc.

Unsure about which picture to use? Send me 1-4 pictures of your pet and I can help you decide.

Reference photos can be emailed to contact@salmeart.com.

Paying a deposit secures your spot in my schedule and guarantees my availability. A 50% upfront deposit is therefore required to be paid before any work on the portrait commences.

Pet portrait commissions can take up to 30 hours to complete. Having a contract not only protects me for the time I dedicate to the artwork, but also ensures that you receive the agreed-upon services and that all your expectations are met.

No, framing is not offered for pet portrait artwork.

However, A4 frames are widely available at many retailers, both online and in-store. Choosing your own frame will allow you to match the piece with your decor for a more personalised and cohesive look.

Of course! I’m happy to draw most animals as long as the reference photo has been taken by you (I cannot use a copyrighted photo).

I specialise in animal drawings, however, and cannot take on any landscape, botanical, or human portrait commissions.

A clear, well-lit reference photo is essential for creating a beautiful and accurate portrait of your pet. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you capture the best possible image.

1 - Lighting Makes a Big Difference

Good lighting helps reveal your pet’s true colours and features, and allows for a clearer and sharper image.

• Indoors: Position your pet near a window with natural light falling on their face. Avoid backlighting and overhead lights, which can create unwanted shadows. (And be careful not to get your shadow in the photo.)

• Outdoors: Morning or late afternoon light works best. Avoid harsh midday sunlight, which can wash out details and cast harsh shadows, especially around the eyes.

2 - Focus on Clarity and Detail

A sharp, high-quality photo allows me to see the fine details of your pet’s fur, markings, colours, and texture.

• Stand close to your pet to take the photo, but not so close that the perspective becomes distorted (when the nose appears too large, or the ears appear too small).

• Use your phone or camera’s focus feature to ensure the eyes and face are crisp and clear.

3 - Get Their Attention

To capture that perfect expression, use treats, toys, or sounds to get your pet to look toward the camera. Try to get them to look slightly above the lens for a natural, alert pose.

4 - Capture the Whole Face (and Ears!)

Try not to crop out parts of your pet—especially the ears or top of the head.

If your pet has passed and your favourite photo is missing a part, don’t worry—I can use additional photos to help complete the portrait.

5 - Keep it Natural — No Filters

Please avoid using filters or editing the photo’s colours. Filters can distort your pet’s natural colouring and reduce image clarity, making it harder to achieve a realistic likeness in the final portrait.

6 - Experiment with Angles

Take several photos from different angles, as there may be one that captures their expression best, allowing me to create a portrait that truly captures your pet’s personality and appearance.

Unsure about which picture to use? Send me 1-4 pictures of your pet and I can help you decide.

Reference photos can be emailed to contact@salmeart.com.