Reference Photos
Good reference photos are imperative to create the best possible portrait. If the shots are out of focus, distant or have poor lighting, it will be difficult to gather the details, shapes and colours of the animal. I prefer not to have to guess, which could result in a less than acceptable rendering. If possible I like to take my own photographs, as it allows me to meet the subject. (A travel charge of $40 will apply to distances beyond 100km from Milton) I am then able take many shots, in different angles in the best lighting. This will be at no additional charge to you. I will send you a selection of the best images for you to choose the best shots for you portrait.

If you choose to provide your own photographs, please gather as many as you can. Select one showing the pose you like, others to show the true colour & markings of the animal, and others just for personality and characteristics. Photos may be emailed to me, sent on disc, or hard copies can be mailed. They will be returned once the portrait has been completed to your satisfaction.
If you will be taking your own photos, please refer to my phototips section.
If you are using a professional photographer’s images you must get their approval before they can be used.
Approval must be obtained by the Artist before using any reference photos I take, for use on-line or for reproduction or advertising purposes.

Composition
We will discuss the overall size and layout of what you are looking for & number of subjects in your composition to then determine a price prior to proceeding.  Once selected, should the composition or number of subjects be changed, there will be a change in pricing. Also your required date for delivery must be determined.
Depending on the position of the subject(s) or composition, your portrait may be horizontal, vertical or square.

Materials Used
A variety of quality pastels will be used.  Pastels are among the most permanent of all mediums. There are no liquid binders that may cause them to fade, darken, yellow, crack or blister with time. Pastels are pure powered pigment, ground into a paste with a small amount of gum binder and then rolled into sticks. There are pastel paintings created in the 16th century and their colours are as bright and vivid as the day they were created.
The ground or surface that I use is an acid free pastel paper, Canon Mi-Teintes. (This is a popular paper manufactured in France.) On rare occasions, or upon request, your pastel could be on velour, sandpaper or other surface. The original pastel will not be sprayed, as it will alter the colour and look of the pastel. Always handle an unframed work with extreme care.

Delivery Date
Your portrait may take 3 weeks. A large complex work will take longer. Please specify required date when ordering. Special dates for gifts can usually be accommodated. Allow an additional 1-2 weeks for framing. Please book your commission early for Christmas, as space fills up quickly.

Framing
Available to local clients, by quotation. Click here for more info.

Important Information
A non refundable deposit of 25% is required at the time of collecting/shooting reference photos. The balance owing is to be paid once the finished piece is approved by you. Shipping charges and tax are extra. The artwork will be shipped once the final payment has been received, or for delivery or pick up, balance is due then. Cash, certified cheque or money orders are accepted.
The work is guaranteed, and should there be something you would like to change, it will be adjusted to your satisfaction.
Also note I will retain copyright on your work for use in any of my advertising on-line, on my website, or in print, or to be reproduced on note cards prints or gift ware