COMMISSION PROCESS

Commissioning a custom made artwork can feel like an extremely daunting process but it is really quite simple, so to help try and simplify the procedure here is a guide on what to expect at each stage so you feel comfortable to proceed. I want this to be a positive experience for you from your initial contact to the receipt of your very personal artwork. 

 

Artwork Options

The first thing you need to decide is the size and whether you want a head only, head and shoulders, or a full body pose as well as whether you are having one or more subjects. Please note however, the smaller the size the less detail will be possible. The artwork orientation i.e portrait or landscape is another thing to consider but this may actually be decided automatically, by this I mean that depending on your previous choices for the image(s) and what aspects are to be represented, a certain orientation may well suit better than the other. This helps to avoid too much ‘empty’ space but I am happy to advise which would be more suitable if you are unsure.

 

Other things to consider are where your artwork will be displayed (this should always be out of direct sunlight). Whether on a side table or on the wall, consider the scale of the artwork i.e that it will not be too big or too small for the space - this is just as important. 

 

Generally I leave the background plain but will consider a more detailed background but note that would be an additional cost. I will choose the surface colour I feel works best with the image provided but am happy to discuss if you have a preference.

 

Sizes & Prices

I offer three sizes which refer to paper size not image size (the subject will be a good size within the surface area).

Standard is 24x30cm (or A4) - this size is suitable for one head and shoulders

Medium is 30x40cm (or A3) - this size is suitable for one full body or two head and shoulder subjects

Large is 50x70cm (or A2) - this size is suitable for one or two full body or three head and shoulder subjects.

 

Please refer to Price List for details.
 

Photographic References

You will need to provide a good clear detailed photograph, this is essential. The photograph needs to be a high resolution digital image and of sufficient clarify that I am able to enlarge to see details such as hair direction, pupils etc. The image will be the main photograph and the artwork pose you require will be directly taken from this photograph. Further photographs are welcome to help give an idea of personality and fur colours etc in different lights but these will be for reference only. If you have a preferred image but are unsure about the detail quality, you are more than welcome to send it to me and I will be happy to advise whether it is sufficient or not. 

 

The best conditions for taking clear detailed reference photographs:

• Take shots outdoors or indoors in front of a window

• Make sure it's colour accurate 

• Eyes are bright, colourful and have plenty of reflection

• Clear and crisp photographs

• You can see the fur/hair details

• Close up 

• Take the photograph at their level

• The whole pet visible with no parts missing

 

DON'Ts:

• Extreme sun which can cause squinting & dark shadows

• Don't use a flash

• Avoid red eye

• Pixelation 

• Eyes are too dark with no reflection

• Lack of detail

• Too far away from camera

• Parts missing (either cropped in photograph or because of lighting)

• Unnatural pose

• Avoid distortion due to light sources

 

The better the photograph the better the artwork.

 

If possible try to capture an expression that presents your favourite. You may need to take many photographs before you manage to capture just one good shot. A modern smart phone is more than capable of the quality required so no special camera equipment is necessary. If you require more than one subject in the artwork they do not have to be in the same photograph, separate photographs of each subject would be perfectly acceptable. I can then position them in the artwork to your satisfaction.

 

Please choose carefully, you are paying for a colour pencil representation of this exact image so it is worth taking the time to ensure it is the one you really want.  Again I am more than happy to discuss the photographs with you until we are both in agreement and you are perfectly content to proceed.

These can be sent any time but I must have them no later than 10 days prior to starting your commission.

 

In Memorium

Sometimes we may have a beloved pet that is no longer with us so obtaining further images are impossible. If you only have poor quality images whether digital or printed please contact me prior to booking. Email a digital copy of your photograph and I will be more than happy to advise you.

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Once you have decided on the options for your desired commission please ensure you read my Terms and Conditions before proceeding. If you have any questions please send an email to sue.noler.art@icloud.com  complete the contact form or add your name to the wait list. I will supply a quotation confirming costs and advise you on the expected waiting times. If you are happy and you wish to proceed, a booking fee for your commission will be required to secure your place. 

 

Booking Fee

The Booking fee is 40% of the total artwork cost (not including delivery). This will be required at the time of reserving your place on the waiting list. This can be paid by BACS transfer, PayPal or a cheque (UK only). I would be prepared to consider instalments but this would need to be approved at time of booking your slot. I will provide a breakdown of total costs, delivery, payment options and terms and conditions. You have 7 days to cancel before the booking fee becomes non-refundable to cover costs.

 

Starting Work

Prior to commencing your commission I will email confirming image choice, surface size, colour and orientation. Any changes to these need to be communicated at this point in writing. I will then give you an approximate timescale of completion. The time taken on your artwork depends on size and level of detail required. 

 

Your Approval

On completion I will send you a watermarked digital photograph of your commissioned artwork to ensure you are happy. I do not make any minor alterations but I may adjust shadow if required. I will require your approval in writing.

 

Final Payment

The 60% final balance payment will be due together with the delivery costs. Only when the balance has cleared will the artwork be shipped.

 

Packaging & Delivery

Artworks are supplied with a single white or ivory mount and backing board, to protect artwork in transit and can be used in a frame (not included). Where possible it will be placed in a clear resealable cellophane sleeve, wrapped for protection and shipped in sturdy cardboard. Delivery in the UK will be via Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1pm Tracked. I can ship internationally but please contact me for tailored delivery costs and be aware that due to tax differences in each country I am not liable for any import customs tax you may be charged.

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