How a Pet Portrait Is Made: My Process From Photo to Finished Painting

Aug 20

Ever wonder what happens after you send your photo?

I'm opening a limited number of commission spots for hand-painted pet portraits — made from your favorite photo and finished with the details that make your pet unmistakably them. If you've been curious about what the process actually looks like, I thought I'd walk you through it, step by step.

Gracie, Abbie & Lulu (rescue kitties) Oil on Panel — **Gracie, Abbie & Lulu (rescue kitties) | Oil on Panel**
*“I just picked up the framed portrait! I love it! Thank you again for all the beautiful work that you have made for us.” — Sara B.*

Step 1: Photo Review
(I'll confirm lighting and pose, and suggest the best crop.)

You send me 1–3 photos of your pet — phone photos are totally fine. I'll look them over and let you know what I'm working with. Good lighting and a clear view of the eyes make the biggest difference in what's possible, so if I think a different photo would serve the portrait better, I will let you know.

Step 2: Pose Approval
(I'll work with you on the best composition.)

Before I pick up a brush or pastel, we'll agree on the composition together. You'll have a say in how your pet is posed within the portrait. This is your portrait and I want you to love it before I begin.

Step 3: Portrait Size Choice
(There are many sizes to choose from.)

You'll also choose your preferred size — common options include 8×10 and 11×14 — and your medium: oil or pastel. Not sure which? I'm happy to talk through what might suit your pet and your space best.

**Pictured is an example of a portrait that is 11x14.**

*This is of our beloved dog Lily. She is shown in a beautiful mat and hardwood frame with museum glass, installed by the Art Works Frame Shop in South Burlington, VT.*
Lily was our dog of 12-1/2 years and she was special to my husband who has ALS. She would ride around on his lap in his motorized wheelchair each day and was always there to keep him company. We feel her loss greatly. Lily passed away from throat cancer in 2022.

Step 4: Painting
(Fur texture, markings, and those signature eyes.)

This is where I get to work. Each portrait is painted by hand, and I give careful attention to the details that make your pet who they are — the texture of their fur, their particular markings, and especially their eyes.

**At my easel painting a dog named Merlin.**

This was a portrait gifted by Andrea's Animal Care in Cambridge, Vermont to her client. Andrea calls this little pooch "squirrel" because he squirms around when she picks him up and is slinky. Merlin was painted using pastels and is an 8x10 size.

Step 5: Progress Updates
(The fun part! I'll send you lots of updates as I paint!)

You won't be left wondering. As the portrait comes together, I'll send you updates along the way — this is genuinely one of my favorite parts of the process. Watching a portrait come to life is exciting, and I love sharing that with the people who love the animal I'm painting.

Step 6: Delivery
(Digital proof first; shipping & local delivery options available.)

When the portrait is complete, you'll receive a digital proof first so you can see the finished piece before it ships. From there, I offer both shipping and local delivery options.