Getting started with your custom portrait.
I’m so happy to create a portrait of your pet that will bring joy to you and your home! The information below details how to get started with the process.
Let me know if you have any questions and I look forward to hearing from you!
First, choose a style.
First, take a look at my past works on both canvas and paper and let me know the style you prefer for your pet’s portrait, either natural color or full color. If you have specific colors in mind, please let me know that as well. Struggling with deciding? Consider whether you gravitate towards bright and vibrant , calm and peaceful, or neutral colors, and we can start there!
Then, choose a size.
Visit the Pricing page for common portrait sizes and prices. If you desire a specific size that is not listed, let me know and I can quote it for you. If you need help deciding what size would fit in your space, I will be more than happy to help you decide what would work best!
Next, send photos.
I paint directly from photos for your custom portrait. The more detail I can see in your pet’s face, the better. See a few tips below for taking the best photo of your pet! If you already have a specific photo you would like for me to use, you can send it to me at hello@meldunne.com. It is helpful to send several photos if you have them. I am happy to help you choose the one that will make a great painting!
Lastly, the process.
A deposit of half of the total cost is required before I begin painting. The other half is due upon the completion of the painting and after you are completely happy with it. My turn around time is 4-5 weeks, but can vary depending on the time of year. If you have a special circumstance and need something sooner, let me know and I will do my best to work with your time frame. I will send pictures throughout the process to ensure you are happy with the direction your painting is headed. You will be able to let me know if you like the layout, are happy with the colors, or want me to make changes. My goal is for you to absolutely love your painting!
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Tips on getting a great picture of your pet.
*Use natural light and turn your flash off. You can take your pet outside or have them sit near a window so the light is hitting their face. This will show the most detail in their eyes and face, which in turn helps me to capture their personality and spirit.
*Have your pet sit or lay down. Treats are always a great incentive!
*Get eye level with your pet. Sometimes this means sitting down on the floor, laying on the floor in front of them, etc.
*You can take great photos with your phone! Make sure to tap the screen where your pets eyes are. This will focus the picture. Be as still as you can when you take the picture. Steady yourself, take a deep breath and hold it, then take the picture. This can help prevent the photo being out of focus due to the camera moving.
*Don’t add filters. Doing so will make it hard for me to gauge the true color of your pets fur, eyes, etc.
*Be patient and take several shots at different angles (head on, side profile, sitting, laying down) if your pet will cooperate (again, treats work wonders!) Choose the one you like the best or send me several and I can help!