Pet Portraits Tips:

Photographs:

I paint portraits from photographs, and prefer a highly detailed photo. I can't stress enough the importance of a good photo. You know what they say: "A picture is worth a thousand words!" The better the photo, the better quality my portrait will be! If the pet is too tiny in the photo, blurry or out of focus I have to improvise and it may not be a good representation of your pet. Take your time and decide if you want a full body painting or a head/chest. Then look for the best photo that resembles your pet as you want him/her painted! For some pets a beautiful photograph that captures their best qualities is easy to find. If not you may want to have a professional photograph your pet. If that's not possible you can achieve similar results yourself. Digital photos are fine, just use the highest resolution on your camera settings.

Here are a few tips to taking your own photos:

GOOD LIGHTING:

Believe it or not I found that the best possible lighting is achieved outside in natural light. Or if thats not possible, put your pet close to a large window, with plenty of natural light coming from behind or slightly to the side as you face your pet, is the next best option. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can alter natural color and increase the contrast between shadow and light, hiding some features. A bright but overcast day is perfect!

Don't use a flash, as this can cause red-eye and distort the true colouring & shading of your pet. An exception to this is if your pet has a black coat, in which case a flash or bright sunlight can actually bring out shading and texture which may be lost in photos taken under other lighting conditions. I can paint from a photo that has 'red eye', but please send another photo that shows the pets true eye color.

POSITION:

Photograph your pet on their level. Don't look down at them because they will look out of porportion. Don't make them come to you. Instead, go to where they are most comfortable and see the world from their point of view. Sit or lie on the ground/ floor, whatever it takes. This is especially important for full body shots.

Take plenty of photographs with a zoom lense if possible, and have their face fill the frame while still in sharp focus. Also try taking some three-quarter views as well as from the front, a slightly angled pose makes a beautiful portrait.

PERSONALITY:

For a realistic painting it's best to capture as much personality of your pet as possible, it's best to have a photo that is has a typical expression or pose of your pet. If they are generally happy, try to catch them doing their version of a smile.

A good idea is to have favourite treats or toys at the ready. Hold them up near the camera to catch (and hopefully hold) interest in the right direction. Most importantly, don't be afraid to be silly. Try making funny and unusual noises or movements to get their attention.
Good luck!

You may email photos to me, please don't resize the photo, the larger the better, I want to see every little detail of your pet! Or you may mail me a photo, the larger the better! I will return your photo when I finish your painting.

PRICES

Prices range according to size with a simple background. Portraits usually take me 4 - 6 weeks to complete, although I am getting more commissions so please give me plenty of notice if you need it by a specific date, especially for Holiday orders.
*If you need a painting sooner than 4 weeks, please contact me and we can so I can paint your portrait with first priority.

What you will need to email me:
* Photo(s) of your pet. One or two very detailed photo, digital photos with very HIGH resolution.
* Decide if you want a head/chest portrait or a full body of your pet. We can discuss if you are unsure.
* Specify size of Canvas (sizes below) and layout; vertical or horizontal
* Give me your preference for background colors. I charge extra for a scenic background,please contact me.
* 50% non- refundable deposit before I start a painting. (check or money order made out to Painted By Dina or if you prefer to use Paypal please add 5%)

Portrait Canvas Sizes and Prices

11" x 14" $250
12" x 16" $275
14" x 18" $300
16" x 20" $335
18" x 24" $375
*Add $50 for each additional pet in the portrait.
*A scenic background can be painted for an additional fee, please contact me.
*Shipping charges are extra

Please contact me with any questions. I will send you a photo of the final portrait for your approval before delivering. If you are interested in seeing how your painting is coming along, I can email you a photo during the painting process.

Dina Marie Pratt
Address: 361 Main Street, East Berlin, CT 06023
Email: Dina@PaintedByDina.com
Phone: 860-344-9926

Pet Sympathy Cards & Notecards

Many of my completed Pet portraits and memorials are available in Note Cards or Sympathy Cards

$3 ea. or (4) for $12. Please contact me and specify pets name if you wish to purchase them individually. Sympathy Cards are sold individually for $4 ea (or 4 for $14. you may choose a variety) *A simple verse is inserted in card

Rescued Pet Collection Sold in sets of dogs or cats (4) for $12
All proceeds of the sale of these cards benefit Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary
Please visit Painted by Dina on Etsy to order

Pet Memorials & Pet Angels

Custom Pet Memorials may be paintings of angels or the Rainbow Bridge scene. Paintings are available on slate, wood or canvas. Please specify painting theme you would like: Angel or Rainbow Bridge painting. I use outdoor paint on the Slates which can be put outdoors. Please Allow 2-3 weeks for delivery-

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO EMAIL ME:
ANGELS:
Profile photo of your pet or if you would prefer me to paint a specific breed, I will find a generic photo to paint a good representation.
Color of your pet angels dress.
*Optional 'INSPIRATIONAL' word: Peace, Love, Faith, Hope.

RAINBOW BRIDGE PAINTING:
Multiple pets look great together. Specify the pets you would like.
Full body photo or a photo of the Back of your pet and tail is needed
* Optional specify written info to add to painting: pet names,year of birth and death.

Sizes and Prices:

Canvas Paintings:
11" x 14" Angels or Rainbow Bridge $58 (frame not included)
Wood Panel Paintings
These are painted on thin (1/4")panels and INCLUDES frame
11" x 14" Angels or Rainbow Bridge $65 - *Matted Print $18 (with matte & frame - $48)
5" x 7" Angels or Rainbow Bridge $28 - *Print $10 (with frame - $18)

Slate sizes: (sizes are approximate, please inquire about custom sizes)
approx. 10" x 16" Angels or Rainbow Bridge $65
*larger sizes available upon requested.

Vintage Wood Door Panel sizes vary:
approx. 10" x 18" Angels or Rainbow Bridge $55

Pet Signs
I design custom signs using wood salvaged from old homes and barns. Each sign is hand painted and hand lettered. No two are alike. Signs can be painted on panels from old doors, cabinets, pianos and old wood or new wood if you would like. You can choose your own design and color. Panel door sizes will vary and depend on my current supply, please give me an approximate size. Most common sizes about 10" x 18". Please email photos and contact me for a quote. Specify the design, color, type of wood, and approximate size. Signs generally take me 2 weeks.

EXTENDED COPYRIGHT AGREEMENT

Thank you for ordering a custom painting from Painted By Dina. It is my pleasure to paint your special pet for you and although you will be the owner of my original artwork please remember that I retain Full Copyright for any artwork that I create. I will retain an electronic copy of any paintings I create and may use them in my portfolio and website. I may also reproduce them for cards, prints or other merchandise unless you don't approve. Please let me know and I will give you a written agreement stating otherwise.

Thank you for your interest in my paintings! I put my heart into painting animals and I appreciate the opportunity you have given me to create your beautiful custom paintings. My hopes are that it will bring you joy for many years to come and I look forward to painting your SPECIAL pet!

Dina Pratt
Email: Dina@PaintedByDina.com
Phone: 860-344-9926

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