The commission process
How a portrait comes to life
A simple, personal process — from your favourite photograph to a handcrafted work of art, delivered to your door.
- 01
Send your enquiry
Fill in the commission form with a few details about your pet — their name, breed, and a little about their personality. Natalie will be in touch within 48 hours to discuss your vision and confirm availability.
- 02
Share your reference photo
Once your commission is confirmed, you'll send your chosen photograph. Natalie will review it and let you know if it has everything needed to create a stunning portrait. If you're unsure which photo to use, she's happy to help you choose.
- 03
Natalie paints your portrait
Working entirely by hand, Natalie creates your bespoke portrait with meticulous care. You'll receive a progress update partway through so you can see your pet taking shape on the canvas.
- 04
Review and approve
Before the portrait is finished, Natalie shares a final photograph of the pet's portait for your approval. Minor adjustments can be made at this stage to ensure you're completely happy with the result.
- 05
Delivered to your door
Your finished portrait is carefully packaged and dispatched with tracked delivery across the UK. International delivery is available on request. The portraits arrives ready to hang and cherish for generations to come. Please keep in mind that for safety all portraits are unframed.
Reference photos
What makes a great reference photo?
The quality of your reference photograph has a big influence on the final portrait. Here is what Natalie looks for.
Good natural light
Photos taken in natural daylight — near a window or outdoors — show the true colours of your pet's coat and eyes far better than flash photography.
Sharp focus on the face
The eyes are the soul of any portrait. Make sure the face — especially the eyes — is in sharp focus, even if the background is slightly blurred.
A relaxed, natural pose
Candid shots of your pet being themselves often make the most expressive portraits. Avoid heavily staged poses or photos where your pet looks startled.
High resolution
The larger the file, the more detail Natalie can work from. If you have the original photo from your phone or camera, that is ideal.
Timings, sizes and mediums
- Turnaround
- Typically 2–3 weeks from photo approval to dispatch.
- Mediums
- Acrylic on Canvas or Acrylic on Canvas Boards
- Sizes
- A4, A3, and A2 available. Custom sizes on request.
- Delivery
- Delivery on costs for the UK customers: the costs depends on the size and weight. International delivery available on request
- Multiple pets
- Portraits featuring two or more pets are welcome — please mention this in your enquiry as it will affect the price
Frequently asked questions
Can I commission a portrait of a pet who has passed away?
Absolutely. Many of Natalie's most treasured commissions are memorial portraits. As long as you have a good quality photograph, she can create a beautiful tribute to your beloved companion.
What if I only have one photo?
That's perfectly fine. Natalie will assess the photo and let you know if it has enough detail to work from. If you have a few options, she's happy to advise on which will produce the best result.
Can I request a specific background or style?
Yes. During the enquiry process you can share any preferences — a plain background, a particular colour palette, or a style you've seen in the portfolio. Natalie will discuss what's achievable and make suggestions.
Do you paint animals other than dogs and cats?
Natalie primarily paints dogs and cats, but is happy to consider other animals on a case-by-case basis. Please mention your pet in the enquiry form and she'll let you know.
Is the portrait framed?
Portraits are dispatched unframed so they arrive safely. Natalie can recommend framing options to suit the medium and size of your portrait.
Ready to begin?
Tell Natalie about your pet and she'll create something truly extraordinary.