How it works.
The Commission Process
This page will tell you all you need to know about the process, from conception to creation, of your pet portrait. There are a few key stages involved which are explained below. If you have any further questions, please reach out via email or instagram. I am currently based in New York but ship internationally!
Reference Photo Pictures
For my portraits I draw exactly what I see in the picture you send me, so a great reference photo makes a great portrait. It allows me to draw maximum detail as well as your pet’s unique character and personality. Here are some things to aim for when selecting.
Good Lighting
This will most likely be natural lighting but not direct sunlight as this will create extreme areas of light and shade.
High Resolution
The higher the quality of the photo the better. It doesn’t have to be taken on a professional camera, iPhones can be great also. Ideally I need to see details such as reflections in the eyes, the whiskers, nose detail and fur patterns clearly.
Composition
In terms of composition, I often like to focus on the head and shoulders of your pet as it allows for the most detail and facial expression. However, depending on the photo, full body photos can equally be a great option. So, if you would like a fully body photo it is best that I can see the whole pet’s body in the picture. It also works well taking the photo around eye level and possibly getting some attention with a treat!
A reminder that this is just a guideline. Each pet, just like their portraits, is unique so don’t worry if you feel you can’t find the perfect photo or there are certain limitations to taking one. In these cases it’s possible to piece a few different pictures together and it’s always worth sending a selection of photos if you are unsure. We can work together on this and I’m always here to help. See below for some good and not so good examples!
Good Examples
Bebe's reference picture has an amazing level of detail and perfect lighting.
This was Wendy's reference picture, for her portrait we focused on the head and chest, it has great lighting and is in high resolution. Also the picture was taken from eye level.
Coco's portrait was a full body portrait so this composition was perfect as I could clearly see her full body.
Not So Great Examples (using my dog Pepsi)
The quality of the picture isn't amazing, she is far away and the direct sunlight on her means I can't see any of the fur details on her face to draw.
Very cute and good resolution but too close.
Not great composition and she's distracted. Also, it's a tricky angle with her paw leaving the frame and not being able to see the end of it. Doesn't always translate well for a portrait.
Pricing
Pricing for all coloured pencil commissions is based on size, the materials used and the time it takes to create your unique piece. My smallest portraits take a minimum of 10 hours and my longest have taken over a week. The larger the portrait the more room for details. Sizing is measured in inches. 6x8
This is the smallest coloured pencil drawing available and is in a slightly looser style.
€150
9x9
This portrait is the next size up and allows for lovely amounts of details. As a square, this size is perfect depending on particular reference photo composition.
€250
9x12
This portrait is the most common size portrait that I do as it allows for a great amount of detail on a single dog or also allows for two dogs to feature. In order to make most use of the space I generally recommend focusing on the head and chest but full body pictures can also work well! Backgrounds can be included for an additional charge.
Single dog: Starting at €290
Two dogs: Starting at €350
12x18
This size is larger again and perfect if you are looking for a bigger piece for your wall. It allows for even finer details or can either fit up to three animals with plenty of detail. Backgrounds can be included for an additional charge.
Single dog: Starting at €490
Two dogs: Starting at €550
Three dogs: Starting at €600
Daisy, 9x12 coloured pencil portrait
Chloe & Winston, 9x12 coloured pencil portrait
What to expect when commissioning a portrait.
When you have decided on your desired portrait size, and selected your reference photo/s, please reach out and email me, with photos attached, at mikas.eclectic@gmail.com .
We will then work together to finalise a plan and chat through any questions you may have. I will give you an estimate of when you can expect to have your portrait. Typical wait time is about 2-4 weeks but timing may vary depending on time of year. If you have a deadline you need the portrait for please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate you.
When all details are finalised, I take a 25% deposit* to secure your portrait. As soon as I am finished, I will send you a picture of the final piece and we will arrange collection /shipping!
I am based in Dublin City and recommend collection if possible however, shipping is also available with National Express shipping costing an additional €15. Please expect shipping delays around Christmas time so allow plenty of time to book in your portrait.
I do not frame the pieces as I find everyone likes a different style however I can give you some recommendations of local Dublin framers.
*All commissions are non-refundable
AJ, 9x9 coloured pencil portrait
