Pet Portrait FAQ's
How much does a pet portrait cost? How do I pay?
A standard 12"x 12" or 11" x 14" oil painting on canvas of your pet is $400, plus an additional $15 to cover domestic shipping. You may choose to have the entire body of your pet portrayed in the painting, or a close-up of their face; there is no difference in the pricing for your style preference. You may pay using Paypal or mail a check.
Are 12" x 12" and 11" x 14" canvases the only sizes you work with, or may I request something larger?
Larger sizes are no problem at all! Name the size you had in mind in the Pet Portrait Order Form, and I'll be happy to give you an estimate for the cost of the piece.
How much would a portrait featuring multiple pets cost?
I charge $100.oo for each additional pet (or human) you would like to appear on the same canvas. Usually I can easily fit two pets onto the 12" x 12" or 11" x 14", bringing the total cost to $515 ($415 for the standard size portrait and shipping, plus $100 for the extra critter). Sometimes however, a portrait with multiple pets needs to be painted on a larger canvas, in which case we can discuss your options for sizes and then go over how much extra it would cost for the size you're interested in.
How do I choose a photograph for the painting? Can you change/eliminate/or add certain things that appear in the photograph I choose? How should I send it to you?
Photos that are shot at eye-level with your pet, are the best kinds of photos to use for a pet portrait. The clarity of the photograph is also an important element, since it is very difficult to work from images that are blurry, or that obscure important features of your pet. If you've found a photograph that is almost perfect, but not quite right in certain aspects, we can discuss ways to change posture, add toys or collars, eliminate backgrounds, etc. I am able to combine features from several photographs into the portrait for you, if necessary. You can upload your digital image(s) and any correspondence via the Pet Portrait Order Form, or send to my email at mcleshinsky@gmail.com.
How long does a pet portrait take to finish and will I get to see it in progress? May I suggest changes?
There can be different circumstances surrounding each portrait, but a 12" x 12" or 11" x 14" portrait usually takes around 4 weeks to complete. Larger or more complex pet portraits may take a little longer. I will email progress pictures of your painting, and will ask for your feedback, suggestions, and thoughts. I want to make sure it is everything you had in mind, so please don't be at all shy about sharing your observations!