How the process works
If you would like to commission a painting, this page will take you through the easy process. I work from your favourite photographs to achieve a detailed painting showing all your pets characteristics. Due to this, I do require good quality shots of your pet. To find out more information and tips on taking the perfect photograph please click on ‘photography tips’.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you would like to commission a painting, this page will take you through the easy process. I work from your favourite photographs to achieve a detailed painting showing all your pets characteristics. Due to this, I do require good quality shots of your pet. To find out more information and tips on taking the perfect photograph please click on ‘photography tips’. Still have questions?
That’s no problem. I can advise on what medium may be better suited. Once I have seen the photographs there may be elements, textures that would look better in certain mediums. In terms of size this can depend on a few factors ranging from where you would like the finished portrait hung, allowing the space for framing to. The number of subjects on the portrait and budget. I’d be more than happy to discuss all of this with you.
Yes. My graphite pencil and pastel portraits are drawn from large sheets of archival, artist heavy weight paper. I cut all my portraits by hand so if there isn’t a size listed on my website please don’t hesitate to contact me for a tailored quote. My acrylic paintings are done on pre stretched canvases or canvas boards and come in many different sizes so like the paper based mediums, if there is not a size listed you want, let me know and I can provide additional prices.
Of course. Once the 30% non refundable deposit is paid additional payments can be made at any time. A receipt will be forwarded to my client to acknowledge each payment.
I will send you regular photograph updates throughout the process so you can watch the portrait develop. Once you have received the final scan/photograph of your portrait and you are happy with the end result the balance can be paid. Once I have received the balance payment, I will package up the portrait ready for posting.
I can create ‘mock up’ layouts for you. These are done using a photo editing software. I can combine multiple photos, remove tack/collar, retouch photos, blur background etc. Often, you may have one photograph of each of your pets and would like them on the same portrait. This software allows me to do this and provide you with various layouts. Things can be easily tweaked and I welcome any suggestions you may have and we can work together on creating something you can cherish.
Yes of course. I offer various sizes that accommodate multiple subjects on the same portrait. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your requirements. I will provide you with multiple Photoshop layouts ‘mock ups’ where you can decide what layout you prefer and any changes can be easy made during this stage.
Yes. I love seeing your photographs of your much loved pets. I require good quality photographs to work from which will enable me to create a realistic and highly detailed portrait capturing your pets character. These can be emailed to zara.toms@hotmail.co.uk or through my Facebook account.
Yes I do. I’m proud to have my artwork in peoples home all around the world. My prices displayed on my waiting list are UK currency. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’d like me to convert these prices for you. Currency rates can fluctuate on a daily basis so any quotes will only be valid on the day of enquiry. Additional shipping costs may be applicable.
I work on a waiting list, first come first served basis. A 30% non refundable deposit secures you a place on my waiting list. I am booked months in advance so if you have a specific date in mind, please let me know.
Customer reviews
Zara offers a very professional service with every care taken to make sure your portrait is exactly what you want through all steps of the process. I couldn’t recommend her more highly to all of my friends.
Photography Tips
Working from photographs ensures that the right amount of time can be given to get each portrait just right. The photograph used for a portrait is so important and it has to be how you feel capsulates your pet exactly how you want. It’s a decision that can make such a difference to the finished artwork.
The better quality the photograph, the more detail I can bring to the portrait. There are course instances where lower quality images are only available and in those instances, I am happy give advice on how to proceed. I have worked from photographs such as this and it’s based upon each photograph so if there is any doubt, feel free to contact me any time.
There are a few different angles that work well for portraits. I find that the best shot is always when you have taken the photograph at your pets eye level. This can be done by crouching with the camera or raising your pet on a higher surface if needed. However, a slightly more side on also works well and can be very effective for a special portrait. I have given you an example of a good and bad photographs of my own pets which I hope will help.
- 1Take as many photographs as you can. This will ensure you have a greater chance of 2-3 suitable images.
- 2
Try to stand away from the subject approximately 3-6 feet. This usually helps to keep all facial proportions accurate. Standing too close, a higher camera angle can make it appear like the nose is much larger so this is a consideration when taking photographs.
- 3Ensure you get the desired stance photographed. Ears forward, mouth closed, slight tilted head?
- 4
Try to get close shots of the nose and eyes. Having detail of these features makes all the difference to the final portrait. As a general rule, I like to be able to see fur direction details which I can then include in the artwork.
- 5
Lighting is important. The ideal setting is taking photographs outdoors in natural light, no flash. If this is not possible, positioning your pet near a window or door where lots of natural light is a good option. I would still avoid using a flash as this can cause red eye and glare and over exposed sections of fur.
- 6
Never feel worried about emailing me too many photographs. The more the better in some cases as it gives us lots more variety to choose from.
An ideal gift
A portrait is a very special gift and something a friend, family member can cherish for years to come. A gift voucher is the perfect solution should you’d like the owner of the pet to be involved in some of the decisions. Whether that’s because you may be a little unsure what size they’d like or you’re struggling to get the right photograph and don’t want to spoil the surprise.
My waiting list can be over 12 months long at times, so I may not have been able to fit you in for a date you had in mind. Purchasing a voucher can be a great alternative in this situation.
Personalised
All gift vouchers have a section on the reverse that allows you to write a personal message. The vouchers can be anything from £25 up to the full cost of the portrait.
Postage & payment
All vouchers have a 1 year expiry date to give the owner plenty of time to decide what they’d like.
The value of each gift voucher must be paid before they are posted.
All gift cards are sent out within the UK first class at £2.95. All vouchers are sent in a cardboard envelope in a waterproof postal bag to ensure they are protected in transit.
Feel free to contact me if you’d like to commission a portrait or are looking to purchase a gift voucher zara.toms@hotmail.co.uk