Completion Time

Portraits usually take 3-4 weeks to complete.  The actual waiting time may be a little longer if I am in the midst of completing several other portraits when you lodge your order.  The lead up to Christmas is a particularly busy time so please try to give me as much notice as possible (12-16 weeks is ideal) to avoid disappointment.  If you have a particular date in mind then let me know and I will do my best to accommodate your needs.  Remember to allow a few extra days to send photos, arrange payment, approve the portrait and send it out.

Framing

The portrait is sent to you unframed.  This is because the type of frame and color of the mat boards is a personal choice and depends on your own tastes as well as the decor of your home.  The portrait needs to be framed under glass, preferably with a double mount.  If you are concerned about the cost of framing, I suggest that you get several quotes as prices do vary significantly from one framer to another.  Make sure you ask your framer about the availability of resin frames.  These frames come in a variety of finishes and are substantially cheaper than a wooden frame of similar appearance.  

Copyright

When you have paid for the portrait and taken ownership of it, the copyright transfers from me to you.  This means that I cannot reproduce the portrait for profit.  For instance, I would not be allowed to produce and sell prints of your portrait.  I can however, use the image for marketing purposes; such as including it on a brochure or posting it on this website.

Taking Photos

Animals can be tricky to photograph so here are a few tips to follow. 

Get someone to help you.  It is much easier to have one person control the pet while another person takes the photo.  Better still, enlist a third person to get the pet’s attention.  This person should stand slightly behind and to the side of the person taking the photo and should sing, dance, clap their hands, hold a treat, walk away, make noises, praise your pet or do whatever it takes to get your pet to look in the right direction and appear interested.

Take the photos outdoors in bright shade or hazy sunshine.  You don’t want to use the flash or the eyes will probably appear as glowing discs of reflected light.  A bright, overcast day is ideal.  Also avoid very bright sunshine because the colors will appear bleached out and cast shadows will obscure parts of your pet.  You should also avoid dark shade which will deaden the colors and darken the photo. 

You need to get down to the same height as the pet.  This is very important.  If you are standing up with your pet sitting down in front of you, it will end up out of proportion – the nose will be too big and the body too small – not a flattering look!  Even if you have to lie on the ground or squat down low then do it because your photos will be so much better.

Use a zoom lens to get a good, clear shot of the face.  Using a zoom means you can get a nice shot without being too intrusive or startling your pet.  It is particularly handy when photographing dogs.  Without a zoom your dog will probably be more interested in sniffing the camera instead of sitting still, looking your way and pricking its ears up!

Take photos from different angles.  Try taking photos from side on, directly in front and from a three quarter view.  Often a three quarter view is most appealing but this is not always the case.   

Don’t get frustrated or angry with your pet if it won’t co-operate.  If you find yourself getting annoyed then take a break.  You don’t want to get into a bad mood or your pet will be wary whenever it sees you coming outside with the camera.  Be prepared to take plenty of shots.  Reward your pet with praise and a small treat when it does what you want it to do.  This should be a fun activity for you and your pet!