Four Unique Ways for the Pet Portrait Artist to Stand Out

The warm feelings are flowing all around when the pet lover sees her commissioned portrait of her beloved dog or cat for the first time. Would you like the love to last even longer and reward you above the standard commission fee? If so, consider these ideas:

When contracting with the pet lover for the commission, offer extras for a set additional fee. For instance:

1. Offer sale of your original sketches of their pet, or the draft that you worked from for the finished portrait.

2. If you mat the piece, offer a remarque, a bit of original work on the mat--possibly a simple line rendering of the subject in the portrait or of their pet's favorite toys or pastime.

3. Offer to take a quality photo of the piece, from which you print note cards for the pet owner.

4. If you commission pet photography, offer a matted collage or a small album of all of the proof size photographs in addition to the finished piece.

Offer these options prior to creating the work, but if the buyers refuses, don't forget to offer them a second opportunity to purchase them when you finish the piece. At that time, they are often so pleased with the result that they are grateful to have the opportunity to own these sentimental additions to the finished piece. I've listed just a few ideas to get you started. Now come up with even more artistic ideas of your own!

The author has worked with dogs and cats and their people for two decades. She also provides a venue for dog and cat artists with her online gallery, http://www.GreatandSmallGallery.com