Frequently asked questions
- Do you paint the dog(s) live or from photographs? -I usually paint from good photographs, but like to see the dog(s) in the flesh, photograph them and use a camcorder for additional information.
- What medium do you use? -only oil paint on canvas or drawing graphite on paper.
- How long does it take to complete a painting? -very variable, at least a week for a head and shoulders on a abstract background, to several weeks if several dogs are painted in a secific scene.
- Head/shoulders and/or whole bodies? -I paint either. A head and shoulders is recommended for a smaller picture, so we can see enough detail in the dog's head, but as pictures get larger in size, this is not so important as the head is painted a decent size anyway if a whole body pose is used.
- What sizes are the pictures? see pricing
- What are your prices? see pricing
- Do you frame the pictures? -generally no, but I can, see pricing
- Are there any additional charges? -yes, travel expenses to meet you with the dog. I pefer to take my own photographs and meet the dog if possible, but of course with deceased dogs, we can make use of the internet and may never meet, though clients often prefer to meet me in person with their precious photographs rather than rely on couriers. You can come to me if you prefer.
- Can we keep the photographs you take? -yes of course, they will be in digital form to print out as you want.
- Where are you located? -Cardiff, Wales, UK.
- I have no photos of my dog. Can I still have a painting? -yes if the dog is alive and I can photograph it.
- My dog has passed away. I think my photos are poor, can I still have a painting? -I need to see them as sometimes I can still produce a decent result, but of course clear photos are a great help.
- What do you mean by good photos?
Larger the better
Does the dog(s) fill the photo well or appear distant?
Is there flash present, especially in the eyes (eyes are paramount and flash effects can ruin their look and so the personality of the whole dog in the painting)
Is the dog in a natural balanced pose or is it an awkward, unbalanced pose?
Is it in focus (I need to see detail, such as fur direction, markings, teeth etc.
Natural outdoor light is best, unless the photos are indoors by a professional photographer
Is the photo viewpoint down on the dog or at it's level (level is best)
