It will always be preferable to meet my clients and their animals however I realize this may not always be possible. I am happy to work from photographs and indeed have produced excellent results in doing so.

 

If I cannot come to you to make my own studies I am happy to work with images that you provide. I can work from good quality photographs but there are a few pointers that you should consider. Most animals look far better in their summer coats and well-groomed. If possible photograph on a sunny day as highlights and shadows are important for defining the bone and muscle structure and therefore the shape of your animal. The pose too is important – does your image justify your animal’s conformation or temperament? Often there are particular behaviour traits that your pet exhibits and it is a wonderful way of remembering an animal if you can capture that.

 

There are indeed a few things to consider and don’t worry if you have an older photograph or are unable to take the photograph yourself I will be happy to discuss it with you either on the telephone or via email.

 

If you are able to send more than one image it will help me to understand the character and confirmation of the animal. If I am able to come and meet you I will be able to take my own photographs, which will be later placed on a disc and given to you when you buy the painting.

 

Please remember that if you are using a photograph that another person has taken you must obtain permission, in writing, for me to paint the image. Otherwise I will be breaching copyright laws.

 

My fees start at £125.00 for a painting featuring a single animal or the head of an animal, the painting size approximately 30cms x 35 cms, excluding the mount. The original painting will be forwarded to you mounted but unframed. It is not advisable to order your frame before receiving your painting as sizes may vary slightly.

 

Please do not hesitate to contact me with ideas of what you would like and I will give a rough quote, which can be finalised after we agree on exactly what you would like. There will be no charges whatsoever until you have actually commissioned me, at which point I will require a non-returnable deposit of 25% of the agreed final price not including postage and packing. The agreed final fee will not change and because I am confident that you will be delighted with your painting I am happy to say that if you do not like it there is no obligation on your part to accept the painting or send the balance payable.

 

I normally work in either 'artist quality' watercolour or acrylic paint on quality watercolour paper, usually Arches or Bockingford, at least 300 gsm.

Postage costs will be added to your final invoice and your original painting will be insured and sent by recorded delivery.

 

Payment can be made by Paypal or by Sterling cheque.

 

Please do not hesitate to contact me, whether or not you decide to take advantage of my skills as an artist, should you have any queries.