Oh Hi There
You’ve made it this far, which must mean, you like what you see.
About me
Art has always come naturally to me from an early age. I found myself interested in anything that meant I could put ink to paper and create. In my adult life it wasn’t until my late-20’s I found myself drawing more and more after a long break. Since then, it’s been a big part of my life.
That goes for photography too! After dabbling in photography at college and uni, I decided it was something I absolutely must do. Since then, I’m usually the awkward one holding people up on walks snapping flowers and candid photos of unwilling family members. I decided to turn my hobby into something I could do as a job since I love it so much!
SOME QUESTIONS I OFTEN GET ASKED
Got a general pondering? I am here to help! Feel free to reach out if I’ve not answered your question here.
Why should you choose me?
Good question! Sometimes it’s just about the connection, if you see my work and think it’s a good fit then that’s great. I’m an easy going creative with a perfectionist streak. I’ll spend time listening to what you want and work to execute it to your requirements. Alternatively, if you prefer for me to ‘just get on with it’, I’ll do that too! I love having the freedom to be creative and step outside of my comfort zone.
What background qualifications do I have?
In school I took GNVQ Art & Design which is where I got to learn a lot about different art and mediums and take inspiration from famous artists like Frida Kahlo and Egon Shiele. At college I studied art in my foundation year and then went on to study Fashion and Clothing where I first founded my interest in photography and fashion illustration. After college I went to Epsom University for the Creative Arts where I studied Fashion Promotion & Illustration. A lot of my professional studies centred heavily around fashion at the time and I still have a huge passion for this both as a photographer and maker!
What inspires you most?
I’m inspired by so many things around me. I find inspiration in places with big hills and a rolling landscape. I love interesting historic cities with crooked cobbled streets and wonky doorways. I love getting outdoors and walking next to water like rivers and the seaside.
I love the retro aesthetic, especially the 1970’s. There’s something about the warm glow in old photos and the fit and flare shapes that make me smile instantly. The browns and oranges of the 70’s are something that will forever appeal to me.
What camera do you use?
Up until recently I used a Nikon DSLR D3500 which I’d had for a few years. I traded my old friend in for a Fujifilm XT-5 which has been an absolute game-changer. I’m still getting used to it but it’s been fun playing with the settings and getting outside my comfort zone.
What is your favourite kind of photography?
My favourite photography is mainly portraits! A lot of people will shy away from the camera but I quite enjoy helping people feel comfortable and taking nice photos. I also love my travel photos, capturing candid pictures whilst I am out and about is one of my favourite ways to step away from reality and into somewhere I can frame and focus.
What editing software do you use?
I use Adobe programmes like Photoshop and Lightroom to edit my photos.
What if I am unhappy with the photos produced?
I will work with you to discover what you’re not happy with and do my best to reach a resolution that is agreeable for both of us.
How long does a pet portrait take?
Collectively, it takes about 20-24 hours! I like to give a lead time of around 6 weeks to produce your portrait. If you’re on a tight deadline, we can work together to speed things up.
What medium do you use?
My main medium is pastel pencils from various brands but mainly Faber Castell Pitt Pastel pencils and Stabilo Carthobello Pastel pencils. I produce pastel drawings on Claire Fontaine Pastelmat Paper. Sometimes I’ll use Polychromos coloured pencils for some portraits that are particularly intricate.
I also have experience in using watercolours, and if you’d like a portrait in this medium, it doesn’t take as long and therefore could be a good option for you.
Do you only draw dogs?
Whether you’re a cat or dog person, I’m not fussy. If it’s furry and you love it, I can draw it, nothing is off limits.
Cats rule all though.
How do I look after my portrait once it’s finished?
Your portrait will be finished with a high quality fixative. I’ll do my best to hand deliver it in a hard backed envelope with tissue paper to keep things protected. Once you’re ready to frame the portrait, I’d recommend framing it in a mount. The mount will provide clearance above the drawing between the glass and the paper, preserving the medium for longer. Do not position the drawing on a wall that gets sun all day long. The sun has a tendency to fade mediums like pastels and coloured pencils over time. Although the pencils are highly pigmented, the sun will cause the colours to fade. Keeping it out of a sunny spot, will prevent this from happening, and you will get to enjoy your portrait for a lifetime.
How do I commission you to draw my pet?
Give me a call, or drop me a message. I’ll ask you for a reference photo for your pet. Ideally, the picture you provide me will be your favourite picture of your pet. It needs to be high quality so I can zoom in on the details. I take a small £50 deposit to secure your portrait and then the remaining balance on completion of the drawing.
How much do you charge?
- A5 148mm x 210mm £250 (one pet)
- A4 210mm x 297mm £300 (one pet)
- A3 297mm x 420mm £350 (one pet)
Larger sizes on request.
If you’re looking for watercolours, we can work together on this. These don’t take as long, and therefore might be a better option if you’re on a budget.