Why You Should Get a Pet Portrait: A Forever Tribute to Your Pet

Pets are in every home in the UK. From the feisty terriers of the Scottish Highlands to the loyal Labradors of the English countryside, our animals are more than just pets – they’re part of the family. Pets bring comfort, joy and unconditional love across the hills, cities and villages.

For many, a pet is a lifetime friend, a source of laughter and even a trusted confidant in times of trouble. Whether it’s the playful mischief of a kitten, the gentle nuzzle of a devoted horse or the wagging tail that greets you at the door after a long day, these animals become part of our lives. They leave paw prints on our hearts. Their presence warms our homes and fills them with love.

No wonder many pet owners commission bespoke portraits of their pets, capturing their unique character in a painting. A portrait is more than just an image – it honours the love and bond with a beloved pet and captures their spirit for generations to come.

Every pet portrait tells a story.

With each pencil stroke, a pet’s personality is brought to life, capturing their quirks and expressions in a way that lasts forever. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of creating portraits that hold deep emotional meaning—more than just artwork, they’re cherished memories.

Take for example there was a grumpy cat who looked unimpressed with the world but secretly loved the attention of its humans. I’ve drawn a daft zoomy puppy, always in motion, full of energy that keeps its owners on their toes. There’s even a pig whose ears wiggle with glee when you scratch its back or backside.

One of my favourites though was a dog who did a little happy dance whenever it was about to get its favourite ball. I tried to portray this  joy through every pencil stroke. Then there’s the guilty-but-goofy look of a dog who knows it’s been caught doing something it shouldn’t but is trying to look innocent. And of course, the old dog who still finds happiness at the beach where the smell of salt and the sound of the waves brings out the puppy in them.

These aren’t just artworks – they’re tributes to the bond we share with our pets. Each portrait tells a personal story, not just of the animal’s physical appearance but of the spirit, joy and personality that makes them irreplaceable.

Britain has a long history of animal appreciation. From historic paintings of hounds in stately homes to the modern love of pets of all breeds, the UK has always loved animal art. Each portrait I create continues this tradition, celebrating modern pets in a timeless way.

Why Personal Art Matters

 In a world of digital images, there’s something special about a handmade portrait. A commission isn’t just about capturing a likeness. It’s about preserving a pet’s spirit, their personality and the relationship they have with their owner.

A snapshot is fleeting. A custom portrait is a keepsake, a tangible reminder of the love and joy a pet brings. A portrait is more than an image. It’s a testament to the role our pets play in our lives. It captures those little things that make them unique – the tilt of an ear, the mischievous glint in their eye or the way their fur ruffles in the wind.

These subtleties tell a story that no photograph can. Art can summon memories and take us back to precious time with our pets. It can bring comfort after a loved one has gone, so their presence is still felt in the home. For those who commission a portrait as a gift, it becomes a heartfelt expression of love, a personal tribute that resonates long after the unveiling.

In a fast paced world, a handmade portrait is a piece of timeless art – one that celebrates not just the pet but the special bond we have with them.

Iconic UK Pets

 Throughout history, Britain has celebrated its most beloved pets. Greyfriars Bobby the Skye Terrier spent 14 years guarding his owner’s grave in Edinburgh. Swansea Jack the retriever saved over 25 people from drowning. Even Queen Elizabeth II’s corgis are national treasures.

These stories highlight the extraordinary relationships between humans and animals, which is why we continue to immortalise our pets through art. Just as these legendary pets are remembered, so can our beloved companions be portrayed.

How to Get Your Pet Portrayed

 Every pet has a story to tell and a custom portrait will tell it. Whether it’s a dog that follows you everywhere, a cat with eyes that melt your heart or a horse that’s been by your side for years, they deserve to be captured.

Commissioning a pet portrait is a simple process, but the key to a stunning piece of artwork starts with a great photo. As I work from photographs, you can easily email me clear, high-quality images of your pet. The best reference photos are well-lit, in focus, and show plenty of detail—especially in the eyes and fur. If you're unsure which image will work best, I’m happy to help you choose.

Once I’ve received your photos, we’ll discuss all the details, including portrait size, style, and background paper colour, to ensure the final artwork captures your pet perfectly. When everything is agreed upon, a 25% non-refundable booking fee secures your spot in my schedule, with the remaining balance due upon completion. I also offer payment in instalments if needed.

How to Take the Best Photos for a Pet Portrait

 Capturing high-quality photos of your pet isn’t just useful for commissioning a portrait—it’s a great skill to have for preserving memories. Many people don’t realize the importance of good pet photography until it’s too late, and I often receive memorial portrait requests where the only available photos are low quality. That’s why I want to help you take clear, well-lit images that will not only make for a stunning portrait but also serve as lasting reminders of your pet.

What Makes a Great Reference Photo?

For a head-and-shoulders portrait, the photo should be sharp, well-lit, and detailed, filling the frame with your pet’s face.For a full-body portrait, ensure the entire pet is visible—no cropped paws, ears, or tails!

I’ll need at least one high-quality main reference photo to work from, so make sure you’re happy with the composition. Additional images can also help me capture your pet’s true likeness.

Tips for Taking the Best Pet Photos

1. Lighting Is Everything

Natural light is your best friend! Take photos outdoors or near a large window with your pet facing the light. Avoid using flash, as it can alter colours and create harsh shadows. A bright but overcast day is ideal.

• Too much sun? Move into the shade to avoid glare.

• Too dark? Position your pet near a window with you facing the light source.

2. Get on Their Level

The best portraits come from eye-level shots. Instead of taking photos from above, crouch down or place your pet on a raised surface like a chair or bench. This helps capture their face clearly and avoids distortion.

3. Find the Right Angle

A slight 3/4 angle (where your pet’s face is turned slightly to the side) works beautifully for pet portraits. To get them to look in the right direction, hold up a treat or toy to grab their attention.

A custom pet portrait is more than just a beautiful piece of art—it’s a lasting tribute to a beloved companion. If you’d like to commission a portrait, get in touch, and let’s create something truly special.