Pet Portraits
Capture the Character of Your Favorite Companion
With a Unique Portrait by Ann

Click on the category below to see portrait samples
Realistic
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Paintings with Petzazz
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Miniature

Method:
Ann works from photos. Whenever possible, she visits her subjects to take the photos. Not only does that allow her to get to know the animal better, but she's able to photograph a characteristic pose that will allow her to create an accurate illustration.

Note: If you're interested in commissioning a portrait but it's not possible for Ann to take the photos, she can work from your photos. It's very important to provide the best photos possible in order for her to create an accurate drawing or painting - click here to see a sample photo, the finished portrait and to learn why good-quality photos are necessary. You can also download the photo guidelines document for more information on what Ann looks for when she's taking photos. Ann also wrote an article about pet photography that appeared in the Sacramento Pet Gazette, click here to read it.

For the realistic portraits, Ann usually works in pen & ink/ink wash on scratchboard, creating a black, white & grey toned drawing. Although the result is a "black & white" drawing, she's able to show the nuances of an animal's coloring and the final drawing has a nice warm tone and lots of texture & detail. In some cases, however, she may create a color portrait: the portrait of Woody is a watercolor painting; the portrait of Max is a mixed media piece - painted mainly in watercolor, with some pen & ink and colored pencil. The portraits of Kassie and Louise are ink wash drawings with watercolor wash in limited areas; the finished pieces resemble a hand-tinted black & white photograph. Ann has also started offering portraits in graphite pencil - a medium she used many years ago and is enjoying again. The medium used for your pet's portrait depends on the animal's coloring and Ann will discuss the options with you to determine which will best capture your pet's likeness.

For the Paintings with Petzazz, Ann works in watercolor on Yupo (a synthetic paper made of polypropylene). The slick, non-absorbent surface of the paper allows the colors to remain vibrant and to flow and blend differently than on traditional watercolor paper. Ann chooses a limited palette of bright colors and paints quickly. Once the paint is dry, she may add some color pencil for emphasis. The nature of the Yupo doesn't allow for lots of detail or re-working - that's why it's perfect for use in these "interpretive" portraits. Although these portraits are looser and less detailed, they are realistically proportioned and will capture your pet's character. Ann will work with you to determine the best color palette to represent your pet.

For the miniature portraits, Ann works in graphite pencil on bristol - a heavyweight paper with a smooth finish. She may include a bit of color pencil for accent - see Buddy, where she used color pencil over the graphite on the eyes and background. These small format portraits measure 2.5" x 3.5".

Ann has also started posting images of portraits in progress or the photo and finished product on her blog. Click here to visit the blog.

Prices:
Portrait prices are based on image size and complexity, with prices starting at $250 for a 5"x7" realistic image. The price for a Petzazz painting of the same size starts at $155. The price for a miniature starts at $60. Ann will be happy to discuss portrait options with you to determine the appropriate image size and to work within your price range.

A non-refundable deposit of 30% is required on all portraits. The balance is due upon delivery. If you are not completely satisfied with your portrait, return it within 10 days for a refund of the balance.

Commissions are placed on a chronological waiting list with no guaranteed delivery date. Ann has recently accepted two clients with multiple portrait commissions, so at this time, there is a minimum wait of 9 months.

If you'd like to receive a brochure that summarizes the process and includes sample images, please click on the link below:

Custom Merchandise Items featuring your finished portrait! Ann makes her own cards & earrings. She also has on-line shops where you can order magnets, mugs, mousepads, buttons, t-shirts etc.
Note Cards Cards measure 5 1/2 x 4 1/4, are blank inside and include matching envelopes
	Cards printed on either beige or grey speckle-toned card stock are: $2.50 each, $2.25 each for 12-24, $1.80 each for 25 or more These cards feature the ink portraits, some may have a bit of color
	Cards printed on coated white card stock with a matte finish are: $3 each, $2.50 each for 12-24, $2.25 each for 25 or more These cards feature pencil or full color portraits.
Earrings
	Earrings made of laminated paper are $9.50 per pair and come with sterling silver hooks - image is approx. 3/4" square
Magnets
	Rectangle magnets are available through Ann's CafePress shop Square magnets are available through Ann's Zazzle shop Ann will create the magnet and let you know when it's available for purchase on-line.	Sample Magnet
Mugs, Ceramic Tiles, Mousepads, Buttons, T-shirts, etc. Visit Ann's CafePress shop She can make any item available for you - she'll create the item and let you know when it's available for purchase on-line.