PET PORTRAITS by Aron Gadd - Animal Portrait Artist
Mentoring
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Frequently Asked Questions
I would like a pet portrait. How do I get started?
How much does an animal portrait cost?
Can I have a number of pets from different photos combined into one drawing?
I live a long way from Andover. Can I take my own photos?
What areas do you cover?
What if my pet has passed away, can you work from my photos?
How long does a pet portrait take to draw?
What is your lead time?
What happens when my pet portrait is finished?
Can I see my animal portrait before it is dispatched?
Will the portrait fade?
Do you need a deposit?
What medium do you use?
Can I order a copy of the picture?
Will my pet portrait appear on your website or facebook page?
Are the pet portraits framed?
I would like a pet portrait. How do I get started?
If you give me a ring (on 01264 359054) or email, we can arrange a convenient time for me to come to you to do a photoshoot of your animal. I also will take you through the process and find out your requirements.
How much does an animal portrait cost?
This varies depending on size and complexity. Please see my prices page. If you require more information I would be happy to help.
Can I have a number of pets from different photos combined into one drawing?
This is easily done if I take the photos. I can help with the choice of photos to produce a pleasing composition.
I live a long way from Andover. Can I take my own photos?
Yes, but due to the highly detailed nature of my work, a high resolution camera would be required (10 Megapixels or more). If it is not possible for me to come to take the photos I have a Photography Guide page which gives advice and instructions which will help you to take suitable photos that I can work from.
What areas do you cover?
I routinely travel to the following counties to do photoshoots - Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, London, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Surrey, East Sussex, West Sussex and Wiltshire.
What if my pet has passed away, can you work from my photos?
I have in the past worked from clients own photos, but they have to be clear and large enough to see everything I need to maintain the high quality and detail. It is very difficult to "Make up" parts of a picture and keep it faithful to the animal. You could email a picture if you are unsure and I will let you know if it is suitable.
How long does a pet portrait take to draw?
An average dog head study (Labrador size) takes around two weeks, A horse head three weeks, and a cat head about six days.
What is your lead time?
This varies considerably depending on the time of year but can typically be around two or three months. If the portrait is needed for a particular deadline I will do my best to accommodate.
What happens when my pet portrait is finished?
If you live within 50 miles of Andover I will usually deliver in person. For clients outside this area the portrait will be cased in hardboard and sent Special Delivery. Delivery is included in my prices.
Can I see my animal portrait before it is dispatched?
Yes. I scan each drawing when it is finished so if required, I can email a high resolution version for you to approve, and suggest any corrections if necessary (Happily this is very rare.)
Will the portrait fade?
In normal circumstances No. Your portrait will be drawn with High quality "Lightfast" pencils. I will not use colours that fade. However, you must never hang any original work of art where it can be hit by direct sunlight.
Do you need a deposit?
I usually ask for a deposit of around £250 (£150 for cats) when I come to do the photoshoot. The balance is due on delivery.
What medium do you use?
I work with Artist quality Coloured Pencils, and use a combination of Derwent Studio, Faber Castell Polychromos, and Caran D'ache Luminance 6901. I generally use around 100 colours in my palette.
Can I order a copy of the picture?
Yes, we have the capability to produce high quality “Giclée” prints on acid-free matt paper. They look very similar to the original drawing and can be printed at any size up to life size. They are ideal if you require a copy for a family member. Greetings cards can also be printed.
Will my pet portrait appear on your website or facebook page?
I post all of my work on my facebook page but if it is a surprise present this will not happen until after the gift has been given. If you specifically ask for the portrait not to be seen online I will of course respect your wishes. I do put some of my pictures on the website, but the same rules apply.
Are the pet portraits framed?
A double mount is included in the price for each animal portrait but not the frame. I can get your picture framed if required, but framing is a very personal process and it is always best to discuss this with a framer yourself, to meet your individual taste.