How to book a portrait

  • Step One

    Once you have made the decision to comission a portrait, and have looked at sizing and pricing, you can contact me via the contact form on this website or email me at sammybirdart@hotmail.com to discuss your requirements, and enquire about my nearest availability.

    Im happy to offer a personalised quote or answer any questions you may have.

    WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR EMAIL

    - The medium you would like your portrait (graphite or coloured pencil)

    - The size you would like your portrait to be

    - Any important dates you need your portrait to be complete by

    - Your reference photo (see reference photo guide)

  • Step two

    I require a 50% deposit, payable by Paypal or bank transfer to secure your space on my books. This is non refundable once the portrait has been started.

    I will be able to give you a rough idea for a completion date and then a more accurate one once the portrait is due to be started.

  • step three

    Once the portrait is complete, a preview will be emailed to you. I allow up to three adjustments if any minor changes need to be made.

    The final invoice will be sent to you, and once paid the portrait will be posted with tracking, in secure packaging.

Contact

materials used

I currently offer pet portraits in two mediums. Graphite and Coloured Pencil. Coloured Pencil is a little more time consuming which is reflected in the price. These are all artist grade materials with a fantastic lightfast rating, ensuring your portrait doesn’t fade over time.

The brands of pencil used are Caran d’Ache Luminance & Pablos, Fabercastell Polychromos and Derwent Lightfast.

The surface I mostly use is Clairfontaine Pastelmat which is a unique sturdy surface perfect for Coloured Pencil artists.

sizing information

General sizing is listed on my price list, and will fit most generic mount sizes, however if you would like a specific size, that can be arranged.

I can work on a smaller size for a single subject but if you would like additional subjects the size will need to be increased accordingly. (Ie. A5 for a single subject, A4 for two subjects, A3 for three subjects)

Reference photo guide

To create the best detail In a portrait I require sharp, clear images. These are best taken in daylight. You absolutely don’t need a fancy camera, most phones will work just fine to capture a clear image.

I would need a digital original photo rather than a screenshot or edited photograph.

If it is not possible to get a clear image, such as if as pet has passed away, I will always do my best to work with what I have. In this case multiple photos of the subject would be best to capture the subject properly.

I reserve the right to decline a portrait request if I don’t believe the image would create the best artwork, but I will always work with you to avoid this.

If you are local to Lincolnshire I can arrange to meet and photograph your pet.