Commission a Hand-Drawn Pet Portrait from Your Photo

from £65.00

Hand-drawn pet portraits created from your photographs — expressive, character-led artwork made to celebrate the bond you share with your animal.

Not a digital print. Not an instant filter.
Just one-of-a-kind portrait artwork, drawn slowly by hand and made to be cherished for years.

Choose a size, place your order, and I’ll be in touch the same day to guide you through the next steps.

Size:

Hand-drawn pet portraits created from your photographs — expressive, character-led artwork made to celebrate the bond you share with your animal.

Not a digital print. Not an instant filter.
Just one-of-a-kind portrait artwork, drawn slowly by hand and made to be cherished for years.

Choose a size, place your order, and I’ll be in touch the same day to guide you through the next steps.

 

More Than a Copy — A Portrait with Presence

Each portrait is an original commission, created in coloured pencil and wax crayon on professional watercolour paper.

I work from your photos to capture what makes your pet them — expression, warmth, familiarity, and character — not just a photographic replica.

Want to see more finished portraits before ordering?

Browse the Gallery

What You’ll Receive

- An original, hand-drawn portrait on watercolour paper

- Created from your photos with character and likeness as the priority

- A piece that feels unmistakably like your pet — warm, honest, and personal

Included with every order:

- Help choosing the best reference photos

- A clear timeline and friendly updates

- Artwork made to display, gift, or treasure forever

See Sizes & Pricing
Framed hand-drawn dog portrait displayed above a record player in a modern home by Jonny Atkinson

How the Commission Process Works

Ordering a custom pet portrait should feel simple and enjoyable.

Once your order is placed, I’ll email you the same day to say hello, answer any questions, and invite you to send your favourite reference photos.

In short:

1. Place your order

2. I get in touch the same day

3. You send your photos

4. I begin drawing your portrait by hand

You don’t need to worry about choosing “the perfect photo” — I’ll guide you.

Choosing the Best Photo

Clear phone photos are absolutely fine. The best results usually come from:

- Close-up face shots at eye-level

- Natural light

- A couple of angles if possible

You’re welcome to send several photos — I can work from them together.

Reference photo of a fluffy puppy beside the finished hand-drawn pet portrait, showing a custom dog commission from photo to artwork by Jonny Atkinson

Will It Look Like My Pet?

Yes — capturing likeness and personality is central to my process. I pay close attention to facial structure, markings, expression, and presence, so the portrait feels truly familiar.

What Style Are the Pet Portraits?

Every portrait follows the same warm, expressive style shown in the gallery.

See Portrait Examples

My work is expressive and character-led rather than ultra-photorealistic.

That means:

- You’ll recognise your pet instantly

- Details and markings are carefully observed

- The portrait shows warmth, texture, and the hand of the artist

About the Artist

Pet Portrait Sizes

Choose from three sizes depending on how you’d like to display the artwork:

- A5 (£65) — a smaller, gift-friendly portrait

- A4 (£110) — the most popular choice and a beautiful all-round size

- A3 (£170) — a statement piece with real presence

All portraits are drawn on professional watercolour paper and supplied unframed.

Three framed hand-drawn pet portrait commissions shown in different sizes, including A5, A4 and A3 by Jonny Atkinson

Turnaround, Delivery & Gifting

Each portrait is drawn by hand in my UK studio, so please allow time for the process.

Current lead times will always be confirmed when I contact you. If your portrait is intended as a gift, I’m very happy to advise — and printable gift placeholders are available if needed.

A Thoughtful Gift or Lasting Keepsake

Many portraits are commissioned as:

- Birthday or Christmas gifts

- A lasting keepsake of a beloved companion

- A memorial portrait made with care and respect

Whatever the reason, every portrait is approached with warmth and attention to detail.

Why Choose an Original Hand-Drawn Portrait?

Unlike mass-produced prints or digital illustrations, this is:

- Original artwork, drawn entirely by hand

- Created from your photos

- Made specifically for you and your pet

No two portraits are ever the same.

Questions about commissioning a pet portrait?

Most questions are answered below, but you’re always welcome to get in touch before ordering.

  • Portraits are drawn by hand, so turnaround times vary. Current lead times will always be confirmed when I contact you after ordering. If you need it for a specific date, just let me know.

  • Don’t worry — clear phone photos are absolutely fine, and you’re welcome to send a few options. I’m happy to guide you toward the best choice.

  • Portraits are supplied unframed, ready for you to choose a frame that suits your home or gift presentation.

  • All UK orders are sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1pm, which includes full tracking, signature, and photo on delivery. International customers are asked to get in touch before ordering to discuss shipping options.

  • Because each portrait is a custom commission, returns are only accepted if the artwork is lost or damaged in transit. You’ll receive an emailed preview of the final drawing before dispatch to confirm you’re happy with it.

  • Yes — I’m happy to draw cats and other animals too. If you’re unsure, feel free to get in touch before ordering.

Ready to Commission Your Pet Portrait?

If you’re looking for a hand-drawn pet portrait that feels personal, expressive, and made with care, you’re in the right place.

Choose your size above, place your order, and I’ll be in touch the same day to get started.

Still deciding? Take a look through recent commissions and examples here:

Visit the Gallery