🎨 How to Choose the Perfect Photo for a Pet Portrait Commission

When you’re commissioning a custom pet portrait, the photo you choose can make all the difference. The right reference image helps capture your pet’s true personality — whether it’s the soulful eyes of a Boxer, the cheeky grin of a Staffie, the gentle gaze of a horse, or the quiet dignity of a cat.

As a professional artist specialising in pet portrait commissions, I know how powerful a great photograph can be in bringing your pet to life on paper. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or a heartfelt keepsake, this guide will help you select the perfect photo — and make sure your commission is ready in time for special occasions like birthdays and Christmas.

 Table of Contents

1. Why Your Reference Photo Matters

2. Capturing the Details That Make a Difference

3. Lighting Tips for the Best Pet Portrait Commission

4. Angles, Expression, and Personality

5. Perfect Gifts: Pet Portrait Commissions for Birthdays and Christmas

6. Why Book Your Pet Portrait Commission Early

7. FAQs

8. Key Takeaway and How to Book

Why Your Reference Photo Matters

A pet portrait is far more than just a likeness — it’s an emotional connection captured in pencil or pastel. The photo you provide acts as the foundation for that connection. A sharp, well-lit image allows me to bring out your pet’s unique markings, fur texture, and most importantly, their character.

For dogs like Boxers, Staffies, and Bulldogs — breeds with expressive faces and strong bone structure — a clear reference photo helps me capture every wrinkle, glint, and subtle expression. Likewise, horse portraits benefit from photos that reveal the sheen of the coat and the softness in the eyes.

You don’t need professional photography skills; even a good smartphone photo taken in the right light can work wonders. If you’re unsure which image to choose, simply send me a few options — I’m always happy to advise which will work best for your pet portrait commission.

Capturing the Details That Make a Difference

When selecting your photo, focus on the eyes. They truly are the window to your pet’s soul, and they’ll become the emotional focal point of your artwork. Look for photos where the eyes are bright, in focus, and show your pet’s personality.

Next, check the level of detail. The clearer the image, the more accurately I can reproduce fur textures, markings, and subtle features. This is especially important for long-haired breeds or horses with detailed manes and bridles.

If you’d like to see examples of how I bring these details to life, visit my Testimonials page to read what happy customers have said about their commissions — and see before-and-after comparisons of their original photos and finished portraits.

Lighting Tips for the Best Pet Portrait Commission

Natural light is your best friend. Take photos near a window or outside on an overcast day to capture true colours and soft shadows. Avoid using flash — it can wash out colour, create harsh shadows, and cause red-eye.

If you’re photographing your dog, horse, or cat outdoors, aim for early morning or late afternoon when the light is gentle and warm. You’ll notice the colours look richer and the eyes sparkle naturally.

Good lighting ensures your pet’s coat looks lifelike in your portrait, whether it’s the glossy sheen of a Labrador, the deep chestnut tones of a horse, or the soft fluff of a Maine Coon cat like my own. Learn more about how I translate these tones using my chosen materials.

Angles, Expression, and Personality

The best portraits come from photos taken at eye level with your pet. Shooting from above can distort proportions, especially for stockier dogs like Bulldogs or Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Try kneeling or crouching to capture them from their own perspective.

Expression matters too — that gentle head tilt, inquisitive stare, or happy pant makes the portrait feel alive. Choose a moment that reflects your pet’s true self. If they’re always playful, a wide-eyed look works beautifully; if they’re more serene, a calm expression will tell their story perfectly.

Remember, a little imperfection adds charm. That slightly crooked ear or windswept mane might be the very thing that makes your pet’s portrait unique.

Perfect Gifts: Pet Portrait Commissions for Birthdays and Christmas

A custom pet portrait is a thoughtful and timeless gift — perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or Christmas. Many clients tell me that gifting a portrait of a loved one’s dog or horse brings tears of joy. It’s a way to honour a beloved companion or remember a pet who has crossed the rainbow bridge.

To make gift-giving even easier, I offer boxed gift vouchers that can be sent directly to you to gift or direct to the recipient if required — ideal if you’re short on time or want them to choose their favourite photo later.

You can also explore my gift ideas, which include beautifully illustrated mugs, personalised greetings cards, organic clothing, and wall art inspired by my animal and wildlife drawings — perfect stocking fillers or keepsakes for animal lovers.

Why Book Your Pet Portrait Commission Early

Christmas is my busiest time of year for pet portrait commissions. Each portrait takes hours of care and attention, so booking early guarantees your slot and avoids disappointment.

Commissioning a portrait isn’t just about getting a piece of art — it’s about celebrating the bond you share with your pet. Whether it’s a loyal Boxer, a mischievous Staffie, or a majestic horse, your portrait will be drawn with love and attention to every detail.

If you’d like to discuss your ideas, please contact me directly or email me at lyndajrugg.art@gmail.com. I’d love to help bring your vision to life.

❓ FAQs

Q: How far in advance should I book a pet portrait commission?It’s best to book several weeks ahead, especially before Christmas. Spaces fill quickly, and early booking allows time for review and adjustments.

Q: Can I commission a portrait as a memorial for a pet who has passed away?Absolutely. Many of my clients choose portraits as a loving way to remember pets who have crossed the rainbow bridge. I can work sensitively from old photos subject to photo quality.

Q: Do you offer gift vouchers?Yes! You can order boxed gift vouchers here — ideal for birthdays or Christmas surprises.

Q: What size portraits do you offer?You’ll find full details and commission fees here, including different size options and framing suggestions.

Key Takeaway and How to Book

Choosing the right photo is the first step towards creating a portrait that truly captures your pet’s personality. Focus on clear eyes, good lighting, and natural expressions — and I’ll take care of the rest.

Whether you’re treating yourself or giving a unique gift, visit my commissions page to learn more, or email lyndajrugg.art@gmail.com to secure your booking.

Explore the full range of Dogrose and Catnip products — from wall art to organic clothing and personalised greetings cards.

Your pet’s portrait begins with one perfect photo — and I can’t wait to bring it to life for you.

Thank you for reading! Lynda x