How it
Works
If you're considering a portrait, this page explains how the process works and what you can expect from start to finish.
How the process works
1. Enquiry & Photo Submission
Start by getting in touch and sending a clear photo of your pet. You can also let me know which size you’re considering or if you have any special requests. I’ll review the photo and guide you through the next steps before we begin.
2. Booking & Confirmation
Once the details are agreed ( reference photos and portrait size ) , a 50% booking deposit secures your place in my drawing schedule. This confirms your commission and allows me to begin planning your portrait.
3. Creating the Artwork
Your portrait is carefully drawn by hand using soft pastels on professional pastelmat paper.
4. Completion & Final Payment
Once the artwork is finished, I’ll share the completed portrait with you. The remaining balance can then be settled before the artwork is prepared for delivery.
5. Packaging & Delivery
Your portrait is carefully packaged to ensure it arrives safely. PostNet-to-PostNet delivery within South Africa is included. If you would prefer delivery directly to your address, this can be arranged for an additional courier fee. International shipping can also be arranged where needed.
Reference photos
Reference photos
The quality of the reference photo plays an important role in the final portrait. A clear photo allows me to see the details of your pet’s features, fur, and expression, which helps me create a more accurate and lifelike drawing.
Photos taken at your pet’s eye level often work especially well, as they create a more natural and engaging portrait. Images where the face is clearly visible and in focus usually provide the best reference for capturing your pet’s character and details.
If you’re unsure whether your photo will work, you’re welcome to send a few options. I’m happy to help you choose the one that will produce the best result, or guide you if a different photo might work better.
The portrait will closely follow the reference image provided, so choosing a photo that captures the expression and pose you love most will help ensure the final artwork feels true to your pet.
Revisions & feedback
Revisions & Feedback
Once the portrait is completed, I’ll share the finished artwork with you before it is prepared for delivery. Small adjustments may be possible at this stage if something minor needs refinement.
Major changes, such as altering the pose, replacing the reference photo, or adding new elements, are generally not possible once the drawing process has begun. This helps ensure that the time and care invested in each portrait are respected and that the final artwork reflects the original plan we agreed on.
If you have any questions or uncertainties before we begin, you’re always welcome to ask.
Timing & availablility
Timing & Availability
Each portrait is created by hand and takes time to complete. The exact timeline can vary depending on the size of the artwork, the level of detail involved, and my current workload.
As I also work a full-time job, portraits are typically created during evenings and weekends. This allows me to dedicate focused time and attention to each piece so it can be completed carefully and without rushing the process.
Portraits are generally completed in the order that bookings are confirmed. Once your commission has been secured, I will provide an estimated timeframe so you know roughly when to expect your finished artwork.
If you have a specific date in mind, such as a gift or special occasion, you’re welcome to mention it when enquiring. While I cannot always guarantee exact deadlines, I will always do my best to guide you on what is realistically possible.
Payments
Booking Confirmation
To begin the process, a 50% booking deposit is required to secure your place in my drawing schedule.
Balance & Delivery
Once the portrait is completed, I will share the finished artwork with you before it is prepared for delivery. The remaining balance is then settled before the artwork is packaged and shipped. This ensures that everything is finalised and ready before the portrait leaves my studio.
Payment Methods
- EFT
- PayPal
- Yoco payment link ( secure card payment )
Payment Plans
Payment plans are available, this allow you to pay in 3-4 installments, work will begin once the first installment is received, and final artwork will be delivered after the final installment has been received. Only available with EFT and PayPal payments.
Yoco payment links (card payments)
Card payments are available through a secure Yoco payment link. Once your booking details are confirmed, a payment link can be sent to you, allowing you to complete the transaction safely using your debit or credit card.
Because card payments are processed through the Yoco platform and incur transaction fees, they are processed as a once-off payment. This means the full amount for the portrait needs to be paid when using the card payment option.
If you prefer to split payments into instalments, this can be arranged when paying via EFT or PayPal instead.
Shipping & Delivery
Packaging
Once your portrait is complete and the final payment has been received, the artwork is carefully prepared for delivery. Each piece is packaged securely to help ensure it arrives safely and in excellent condition.
Delivery within South Africa
For clients within South Africa, portraits are shipped via PostNet-to-PostNet courier, which is included in the commission price. You will be able to collect your artwork from your chosen PostNet branch once it arrives.
If you would prefer delivery directly to your address instead, this can also be arranged for an additional courier fee.
International Orders
International shipping is available for clients outside South Africa. The courier cost will be calculated separately depending on the destination and the size of the artwork.
Please note that international orders may be subject to import duties or taxes charged by the destination country. These charges are determined by local customs authorities and are the responsibility of the buyer.