But with so many options available online, how do you find the perfect person to entrust with such a precious task?

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a pet portrait artist:

1. Look For Realism And Detail

A great pet portrait is more than just a drawing of an animal; it’s a reflection of their unique personality and all the little traits that make them them. The artist should be able to capture the sparkle in their eyes, the texture of their fur, and the subtle tilt of their head that is uniquely them.

I specialise in highly realistic, detailed pastel drawings of dogs, cats, horses, and other animals. Pastel is a medium that allows for incredible depth and vibrancy, and I spend countless hours building up layers to create lifelike fur, expressive eyes, and capturing each detail just right. When you look at the finished piece, you’ll feel like you could reach out and stroke their fur.

2. Check Their Portfolio And Style

An artist’s portfolio is their resume. It showcases their skill, experience, and artistic style. Take your time to browse through their previous work. Do the animals in their portraits look like they have a personality? Can you feel the life and energy in their eyes? Is there consistency in their style and quality?

My own work is focused on capturing the unique personality of each animal. Every portrait I create tells a story. From the cheeky glint in a mischievous cocker spaniel’s eye to the superior wisdom of dignified cat, my goal is to create a piece that resonates with your personal connection to your pet. You can see this in the hundreds of commissions I have created for clients all over the world, each one a testament to the love shared between an animal and their owner.

Visit Dog portrait gallery

Visit Cat portrait gallery

Visit Horse portrait gallery

3. Read Their Reviews And Testimonials

A great artist will have a reputation that speaks for itself. Look for reviews and testimonials from past clients. Do they mention the artist’s professionalism, communication, and passion?

I am incredibly proud to have 58 five‑star reviews on Google and 56 five‑star reviews on Facebook. Hearing from a client how a portrait brought tears to their eyes or how it perfectly captured their pet’s character is why I do what I do. My clients become part of the artistic process, and I strive to make the experience as personal and enjoyable as the final piece.

4. Seek Out Professional Recognition - Awards and Media

Awards and professional recognition are a good indicator of an artist’s expertise and standing in their field. It shows that their work is not only loved by clients but is also respected by their peers and professionals within the art community.

I have been honoured to win several awards for my work, and to have been featured in several art magazines. You can find out more on my Awards, exhibitions and publications page.

5. Look For A Caring and Collaborative Approach

Your custom pet portrait should be a collaborative process. The artist should be a good listener, and they should be genuinely interested in your pet’s story.

I take the time to get to know each animal’s character and the special bond they share with their owner. I’ll ask for your favourite photos, and we’ll discuss the moments that truly define your pet. This personal connection is the heart of every portrait I create, and it ensures that the final piece is not just a picture, but a true reflection of your pet.

6. Booking A Pet Portrait With Naomi Jenkin Art

If you’re ready to start this journey and create a timeless work of art that celebrates your beloved pet, I would be delighted to work with you. I invite you to get in touch with me through my contact page to begin the conversation. I can’t wait to hear your pet’s story.

A SPECIAL GIFT FOR A FRIEND

Early in 2025, I was approached by a client in the USA who was searching for a unique and thoughtful gift – a bespoke wildlife art commission for a dear friend. The chosen subject was the fascinating, and often illusive, wolverine. The largest of the weasel family, wolverines look a bit like small bears with their thick fur, dark colours, and long claws. They can be found in habitats stretching from North America, Canada, Russia and northern Europe.

Collaborating with clients to bring their vision to life is one of the most rewarding parts of creating a custom wildlife painting. My client had a particular vision in mind: he wanted the artwork to depict the wolverine in a snowy setting, with beautifully thick fur, and to capture the wonderful facial features and expression in the eyes.

I set about gathering a range of reference photos and put together a number of composition options for my client to review. Through open discussion, we narrowed in on his vision, and I did a second round of compositions for him. Seeing the refined designs, he was so captivated by two of these compositions that he decided to commission both as paintings!

DESIGNING EACH CUSTOM WILDLIFE PAINTING

The two chosen designs offered wonderful contrasts. One portrayed a wolverine purposefully making its way through deep snow, with snowflakes gently falling and a dark forest providing the perfect out of focus background. This particular scene was inspired by a beautiful photograph from the talented wildlife photographer, Tracey Lund. She very kindly allowed me to use her photograph as a reference to draw my artwork from.

The second design captured a different mood: a wolverine standing alert in the crisp, bright snow of a sunny day, its form casting a striking deep blue shadow. The background trees were rendered in a soft, almost bokeh style, ensuring the wolverine remained the main focus of the scene. This image was inspired by an Ondrej Prosicky photograph. I loved the wolverine’s pose in the original photo, but it was set in lush green grass, and so I used my artistic license to depict it instead in a snowy environment.

Both of these custom wildlife paintings were to be A2 in size, affording me lots of scope for detail, especially in bringing the beautiful faces of each wolverine to life.

CREATING THE ARTWORK

As these pieces were commissioned as a pair, I wanted them to feel connected, despite the differing light conditions. By using a consistent palette of colours across both artworks and employing the soft-focus bokeh background style in each, they complement each other beautifully. They were created using my favourite medium – chalk pastels. Pastels worked brilliantly for these artworks, allowing me to create beautiful soft textures for the snow, fur and out of focus trees.

The soft focus of the forest backgrounds and the snow helped to keep the focus on the main subject in the paintings – the wolverines. I drew these in pin sharp focus, going all out on the details to bring their beautiful thick fur and facial features to life. The drawings took several weeks to complete. Once I was absolutely happy with the finished drawings, I sent photos of them to my client for approval. He absolutely loved them!

FRAMING YOUR BESPOKE WILDLIFE ART

Choosing the right framing for your bespoke wildlife art commission is key to really presenting it at its best and ensuring enjoyment of it for years to come. Framing also plays an important role in protecting your artwork. My client opted to use my professional framing service, as he wanted to be able to easily gift his friend the paintings upon receiving them.

We carefully discussed various frame and glass options to complement the artworks. The choice of a beautiful dark wooden frame with a subtle grain provided a classic, elegant look. We selected the mount colours to harmonise with the subtle tones within each pastel painting, keeping them consistent across both pieces so they truly worked as a pair.

For the glass, he chose UltraVue® – a superb quality glass. Its remarkable clarity ensures every intricate detail of the artwork can be fully appreciated without distracting reflections, and its UV protection ensures the pastel colours are preserved over time.

SHIPPING ART TO THE USA

As a UK wildlife artist, I regularly ship my pieces globally. Delivering framed artwork, particularly somewhere overseas like the USA, demands the utmost care and planning to guarantee a safe journey. For this commission, custom-made art shipping boxes were designed for each pastel painting. Both were then securely packed within a reinforced outer box for added protection during transit. This was then shipped out fully insured to my client in the states. The paintings reached my client in perfect condition and I’m pleased to say he was absolutely delighted with both of them!

COMMISSION YOUR OWN BESPOKE WILDLIFE ART

Commissioning a bespoke wildlife art piece is a wonderful journey, collaborating directly with the artist to create something deeply personal.

As a professional wildlife artist, I’m here to guide you through every step of the process. Whether you envision a detailed portrait of a beloved animal or a dynamic scene capturing a specific moment, a custom wildlife painting allows you to own a unique piece of art that reflects your passion and has deep personal meaning.

Find out more about the process, pricing, and size options on my wildlife art commissions page.

To book, simply get in touch and we can start planning your perfect wildlife art commission.

Recognizing When It Is Time To Say Goodbye

Charlie had been my shadow for nearly a decade. He was with us on our wedding day and saw us through three house moves. He was the reason I started drawing again and created my first pet portrait. And then he was the reason I decided to turn that into a career and become a professional pet portrait artist. He kept me company lying by my feet through literally every pet portrait I drew. As the years went on, although his spirit remained bright, his body gradually betrayed him. Just after his 9^th birthday we found out he had hip dysplasia which had led to severe arthritis in both his hips and spine. We tried everything—hydrotherapy sessions, multiple pain medications, breaking up his walks into several smaller ones, using a ramp to get him in and out the car. We watched him fight bravely through the pain and at many times on his good days, he would be bounding around like a lunatic, especially if he came across his ‘girlfriend’ Bramble on a walk!

The decision to say goodbye came when his legs finally gave out completely. Despite all our efforts and his incredible determination, he could no longer stand up on his own. Our trusted vet had been monitoring his decline, and we’d established clear markers for quality of life: Could he move without severe pain? Was he able to enjoy simple pleasures? Was there more discomfort than joy in his days? When Charlie could no longer rise, I knew in my heart it wasn’t fair to let him suffer any longer. I looked into his eyes and could see he’d had enough. He was physically quivering from the fear of having to get up onto his feet. The pain medication was no longer enough, and I knew I just couldn’t put him through that ordeal anymore.

Creating a Peaceful Farewell

For Charlie’s final moments, I wanted nothing but peace and comfort, and for him to feel showered with love. We had a wonderful vet who we trusted and Charlie felt comfortable with, and so we made sure he was available. We decided to take Charlie into the veterinary practice as I personally didn’t want the memories of him dying in our living room. Plus, Charlie always loved going to the vets and saw it as one big exciting adventure, so I knew he would be happy to go in.

I prepared a pot of his favourite treats and put his favourite toy in the car carrier. My husband was able to carry him from the house to the car, and from the car into the vets so he no longer had to go through the pain of using his legs. In the consultation room, our vet laid some soft blankets on the floor for Charlie to lie on, and we made a fuss of him, giving him handfuls of his favourite treats and stroking his ears the way he loved. He was happily wagging his tail and licking our hands. When it was time, both myself and my husband were cradling his face. I was telling him what a good boy he was and how much we loved him, and then his head got heavy and he closed his eyes. It was so peaceful, and he looked just like he was sleeping. His pain was gone, and now he could rest.

After the Goodbye

Charlie was a big dog of 34kg, and so we chose to have him individually cremated, with his ashes returned to us in a beautiful wooden box engraved with his name. Some of my clients have found great comfort in burying their dog in a special garden spot, perhaps planting a flowering shrub above. Again, this deeply personal choice should reflect what brings you the most comfort.

Coming Home to Emptiness

That first return to a home without Charlie was perhaps the hardest moment. The silence was deafening. His empty bed in the corner of the sunroom seemed to shout his absence. His toys scattered around the house made my eyes flood with tears. I collected up all his things – toys, bowls, lead, beds – and lovingly packed them all away. I didn’t want to part with anything of his but equally couldn’t bear seeing it all around the house, and so we boxed it up and put it up in the attic. We also moved a sideboard to the spot where his bed used to be – not to erase his memory, but to ease that visual reminder of emptiness. The house felt so quiet without the click of his nails on the floors, the jangle of his collar, or his animated snoring. Keeping the radio playing softly helped fill that strange silence with gentle background noise.

Creating A Memorial Garden

We buried Charlie’s ashes in our garden a few days after receiving them back. The spot we chose was visible from every window on that side of the house, and we planted lots of bulbs all around so that it would be a burst of colour come summer. I chose a big stone and painted his name on it with a paw print and a heart. The process of burying him and saying our final goodbyes was really comforting and I found I was able to find some peace after that day.

Finding Support in Shared Memories

In those raw first weeks, conversations with family members and friends who’d known and loved Charlie brought a huge amount of comfort. We relived our happy memories of him, laughed at the daft things he used to do, and realised what a fantastic, happy life he’d had with us, and how much he was loved.

Not everyone understood the depth of my grief. Just a couple of weeks later, a well-meaning but perhaps less understanding friend asked if I’d ‘got another dog yet?’, a question that highlighted the irreplaceable nature of Charlie. But so many other people got it completely. They sent thoughtful messages, dropped by with cards or beautiful plants, and were there with hugs when words weren’t enough.

Writing Through Grief

One thing that can really help with working through your emotions and processing grief is through writing. I found that writing down what Charlie meant to me and some of my happiest memories of him helped to bring a lot of comfort.

You could perhaps even write a letter to your dog, telling them how much they meant to you and how you’re feeling now they’re gone. Even though you’ll probably never show it to anyone, it can be a really comforting way to get those emotions out and help to process your loss.

The Comfort of Visual Memories

Throughout my career as a dog portrait artist I’ve seen first-hand, time and again, the deep comfort and lasting connection that images provide when cherishing memories of beloved companions. In the days after losing Charlie, I found huge comfort looking through my thousands of photos and videos of him. Yes, there were a lot of tears, but also so much laughter at forgotten moments—Charlie leaping full speed into a snowdrift, Charlie chasing a bee around the garden, Charlie finally learning to swim at the age of 9, Charlie frantically kicking his legs and howling while dreaming.

This process led me to select the photograph that I’ll use to create my own hand-drawn dog portrait to remember him by. It’s from a day when we were holidaying in Scotland, staying in a log cabin. He was eager to play with me and picked up his favourite toy, Penguin. In his ever-so-patient, gentle way, he was holding Penguin in his mouth, eyes looking hopefully at me, giving me his adorable ‘let’s play’ look! Planning this memorial portrait has become part of my healing journey and I know that when I come to draw it, each pencil stroke will remind me of nearly ten years of unconditional love and happy memories.

Maintaining Routines

One of the things you realise when your dog has passed on is how much of your daily routine revolved around them. From their greeting you first thing in the morning, getting their food ready, going for walks, playing with them, taking them out places with you. Charlie and I shared some beautiful daily walks over the years. As he struggled more and more with his legs, these walks got shorter and shorter until, in the last couple of weeks, they had to stop altogether. Following Charlie’s passing, it was comforting to do our favourite walk again each day in memory of him. My husband and I would sit at our viewpoint at the furthest point of the walk, looking over the sea and sharing our memories of Charlie. With each day and each walk, we gradually found comfort in the familiar rhythm and the changing seasons. Now, these walks have become a time to feel connected to Charlie’s memory rather than pained by his absence.

Unexpected Waves

A month after Charlie passed, I automatically went to pack his things for our bank holiday mini-break before remembering he was gone. The grief hit me like a physical blow, fresh and raw all over again. These moments still come—when I find one of his hairs in my tea, when I instinctively expect him to greet me as I come in the door. Each “first” without your dog can reopen the wound—their birthday following their passing, the first Christmas, the first time you visit somewhere they loved. These moments are normal parts of grief, not setbacks in your healing.

Considering a Dog Portrait as a Lasting Tribute

Over the years I’ve created hundreds of dog portraits for clients experiencing similar losses, and I’ve seen first-hand how a tangible tribute can anchor memories in something beautiful. The process itself can be healing—selecting the perfect photo, discussing your dog’s unique personality traits, seeing their spirit come to life through the drawing. If you’re considering ways to keep your dog’s memory alive, perhaps a dog portrait could offer a tangible and timeless way to celebrate what they meant to you.

When I finally hang Charlie’s finished dog portrait on our living room wall, I know that things will subtly shift within our home. Instead of the ache of his absence, I’ll find myself smiling at the image of his playful face gazing back at me. This portrait won’t ever replace him, of course, but I know it will become a way to celebrate the beautiful life we shared, keeping his essence present in a way that brings a gentle comfort, rather than the sharp pang of sadness.

For many of my clients, commissioning a dog portrait becomes an important part of their grieving journey. We often spend as much time talking about stories and memories of their dog as we do discussing the artistic details of their portrait. These conversations help me to create a portrait that reflects the immense joy their dog brought them, and the special companionship they shared.

Finding Comfort and Peace

Grief isn’t something we simply “get over”—it’s the enduring imprint of love on our hearts. I still feel Charlie’s absence, but the sharpest edges of my grief have softened slightly, replaced by a gentle fondness for the memories we created. And I know that when I feel ready to create a portrait of him, that portrait won’t just be a picture; it will be a quiet presence, a daily reminder of the immense joy he brought into our lives.

If you are navigating the raw pain of losing your own beloved dog, please know that your feelings are valid and your grief is unique to your bond. There is no right or wrong way to remember your companion. Whether you find solace in creating a personal memorial, cherishing photographs, or simply holding their love within you, know that their life mattered deeply and the love you shared continues.

When the time feels right, and if you are looking for a tangible way to honour their unique spirit, a custom dog portrait created with empathy and understanding can become a cherished keepsake. As a dog portrait artist who has personally experienced this profound loss, I approach each commission with sensitivity, aiming to capture the essence of your beloved friend in a way that brings lasting comfort and joy. If you feel this might be a path towards healing and remembrance for you, I am here to listen and create a meaningful tribute to your cherished companion. Just get in touch, and we can start the conversation.

Here are just a few ways a custom hand-drawn pet portrait can surpass a simple photo:

1. A Beautiful Background That Complements Your Pet

Photos can be tricky when it comes to backgrounds. It’s often hard to find the perfect setting – one that enhances the feel of the image rather than distracting from your pet. Perhaps your dog’s picture was taken in a room with a lot of clutter in the background, or your cat’s photo shows them sitting on a busy patterned carpet.

A pet portrait, on the other hand, allows you to choose the backdrop. Would you like your pet’s portrait to reflect their love for the outdoors? Perhaps a lush grassy setting would work beautifully, or a soft, diffuse foliage backdrop. Maybe your dog adored the beach, and you’d like their portrait to feature sand and sea. Alternatively, you may prefer a simple, plain-coloured background, ensuring the full focus of the portrait stays on your pet. By tailoring the background, you have the freedom to set the perfect mood and ensure the portrait captures your pet in just the right setting.

2. Improved Lighting

Lighting can make or break a photo, and it can be especially tricky to get right when photographing black or white pets. How many times have you tried to take a photo of your black cat, only to find all the details are lost and their best features are hidden? Or maybe you have a white dog, and your favourite photo of them has overexposed their fur, losing all the definition.

In a hand-drawn portrait, I can ensure that all the unique features of your beautiful pet are clear to see. I can brighten the portrait where the original photo may have been too dim or add detail where an overexposed area has lost its character.

On the left - photo of Cici the cat. On the right - hand drawn portrait. I simplified the background and enhanced the lighting to bring out her beautiful eyes and fur colour.

3. Bringing Out Their Eyes

It’s often said that “the eyes are the window to the soul.” When it comes to pets, their eyes often tell the most touching story. But sometimes, photos don’t quite capture the depth or warmth of their gaze. If your dog or cat has long fur, photos can make their eyes appear very dark, losing that lovely sparkle and range of colours.

In your hand-drawn portrait, I can make the eyes shine, ensuring all those lovely hues, depth, and personality are clear to see. Whether it’s that mischievous glint or their soulful, calm expression, I’ll ensure their eyes convey the full emotion and personality you love so much.

4. Capturing Your Favourite Memory in Detail

Do you have a favourite photo of your pet that perfectly captures how you love to remember them, but the details in the photo are not as clear as you’d like? Perhaps the photo captures a beautiful moment, but the lighting is too dim, or the focus is a little off. At the same time, you might have other photos that show all the fine details—like the texture of their fur, the sparkle in their eyes, or the distinctive markings that make them unique. I can use these other photos to incorporate all those little details into a drawing of your favourite memory, creating a highly detailed, realistic portrait of your companion. This allows me to bring clarity and depth to your cherished memory, turning it into an artwork that captures every beautiful aspect of your pet in the most lifelike way.

5. Removing Harnesses or Adding That Special Collar

Many of your pets’ photos might show them wearing a collar and tag, or perhaps a harness when out on walks. Harnesses and leads can be quite distracting, and you might prefer your portrait to feature your pet without them. If so, I can do that for you. In your hand-drawn portrait, I can remove any collars, harnesses, or leashes that may distract from your pet’s beautiful face.

Conversely, you may wish to include a specific collar or accessory that holds sentimental value but doesn’t feature in your favourite photo. I can easily add this in, creating the perfect portrayal of your companion. It’s all about making sure the image feels just right for you.

6. Bringing Multiple Pets Together in One Beautiful Portrait

If you have more than one pet in your life, getting the perfect photo of them all together can be a challenge. One might be moving, the other may be looking the wrong way, or one might be blinking at just the wrong moment! In a custom portrait, I can work from several different photos to bring all your pets together in one harmonious composition—capturing their bond and the unique dynamic between them. Whether they’re playfully interacting or sitting side by side, a hand-drawn portrait allows me to showcase the deep connection they share.

You may have had pets in your life who never met in reality because one passed away before the other joined your family. I can create a portrait that brings them together in a beautifully unified way. Using reference photos and your memories of each pet, I can position them side by side, portraying them together in spirit. This can be an incredibly meaningful tribute—a way of celebrating the different chapters of your life and the pets who shaped your journey, even if they never shared a physical moment together.

‘Scampi, Taz and Reggie’ - This portrait was drawn using a combination of different photos of each dog, to bring them all together in one harmonious portrait.

7. Celebrating Your Pet In Their Prime

At times, our pets may go through health challenges that show in their appearance, and it’s completely understandable to wish to capture them in their prime. Perhaps your favourite photo was taken when they were dealing with a cracked nose, weepy eyes, or tear stains. Or maybe it was taken when they were showing the signs of age, with more grey hairs and a tired look. It’s perfectly natural to want a portrait that reflects your pet at their most vibrant and healthy. I can help bring this to life in your portrait by using other photos to reference and drawing a portrait that showcases them at their best—removing any signs of illness or ageing, and capturing the joyful spirit you always knew and loved.

8. Combining Photos to Create the Perfect Pose

Have you ever had that one perfect photo of your pet’s face but wished they were sitting in a different position? Or maybe there’s another photo with them in the ideal pose, but it doesn’t quite capture their expression? With a custom hand-drawn pet portrait, I can work from several photos to create the perfect pose. This means you don’t have to choose just one moment—together, we can create a portrait that reflects all the best aspects of your pet.

A Pet Portrait To Cherish

A pet portrait is so much more than a simple representation of your pet—it’s an enhanced tribute to the memories you’ve shared together. With each careful pastel stroke, I can take your favourite photos and transform them into a truly special hand-drawn portrait that celebrates your pet’s unique character and charm. Whether it’s improving the lighting, highlighting those soulful eyes, or capturing the perfect pose, a custom portrait offers a wonderful way to capture your memories with your pet in a beautiful piece of art.

If you’d love to chat more about a portrait of your pet, I’d be delighted to help. Get in touch with me today.

Pet Portrait Reviews

Being asked to draw a bespoke pet portrait for a client is always a special moment, but it’s even more wonderful when I hear just how much the finished portrait means to them. I’m proud to have received over a hundred 5-star reviews from happy clients over the years. You can read some of these testimonials over on my reviews page.

As a professional pet portrait artist, my aim is to bring your pet’s spirit to life on paper. But how do I do that? It’s not just about creating a lifelike image—it’s about telling their story. Here’s how I ensure each bespoke pet portrait is as unique as the pet it represents.

Getting to Know Your Pet

Every pet has a story, and before I begin drawing, I take the time to learn about yours. When you commission a pet portrait, I’ll ask you about your pet’s personality, history, and the special moments you’ve shared. This helps me to understand what makes them tick and how best to bring their character to life.

• What is their background? Is your pet a rescue who has overcome a difficult past? Or have they been part of your family since they were a puppy or kitten, growing alongside you and sharing every chapter of your life?
• What are their quirks? Do they have a signature head tilt, a goofy grin, or a mischievous glint in their eye?
• Who are their favourite people? Do they follow you like a shadow, always at your side? Or maybe they have a special bond with a family member, making the portrait an incredibly meaningful gift.
• Have they faced challenges? Some pets have endured illness or hardships, making their bond with their family even more profound. A portrait can celebrate their resilience and the love that has helped them through.
• Are they working or sporting animals? Whether they participate in agility, field trials, or the show ring, their dedication and energy can be reflected in your portrait.

Capturing the Bond Between Multiple Pets

Many families have more than one beloved pet, and a portrait featuring multiple pets can beautifully showcase the deep connection they share with each other. When capturing more than one pet in the same portrait, I take time to understand their unique relationship and dynamic.

• Were they inseparable? Perhaps they spent every moment together, curled up in the same bed or playing side by side.
• Did they have distinct but complementary personalities? One may have been the playful troublemaker while the other was the gentle guardian.
• How did they interact? Is one pet usually the leader with the other being the sidekick? Is one the comedy goofball, with the other often looking on non-plussed? These insights help me to bring their connection to life in your portrait.

By blending these elements into the composition, I ensure that each pet’s personality is distinct yet harmonized within your artwork. The positioning, expressions, and even subtle body language can reflect their beautiful companionship, making the final piece a heartfelt tribute to their bond.

Naomi with her pet portrait of Cairn terrier trio Scampi, Taz and Reggie

Choosing the Right Reference Photos

To create a truly authentic and lifelike pet portrait, I ask for a selection of high-quality photos of your pet. These images give me a full understanding of your pet’s unique features and expressions. Here’s what works best:

• A clear, high-resolution photo with good lighting – This helps me to see the fine details of your pet’s features, in particular their eyes, and any distinctive markings.
• Multiple angles – Front-facing images are great, but side profiles and different perspectives help me see their full shape and character.
• Action shots and personality pics – Photos where they’re playing, sleeping, or interacting with their favourite toy show me different sides to their personality, and help me to bring out their individuality in the drawing.
• Videos – A short clip of your pet in action can provide me with a wonderful insight into their personality, movement, and expressions.

Bringing Personality into the Portrait

Once I have a full picture of who your pet is, I use this knowledge to make key artistic decisions that will enhance your pet portrait:

• Expression and eyes – The eyes are truly the window to the soul, and I focus on capturing the depth and emotion within them. Whether they’re bright and full of energy or soft and soulful, their expression will be at the heart of the portrait.
• Composition and setting – Some pets look best with a soft, neutral background to keep the focus on them, while others shine in a more detailed setting that reflects their personality. A dog who loves beach walks might look perfect against a soft, sandy backdrop, while a cat who loves to curl up on a cosy windowsill might be best framed in warm, homely tones.
• Fur texture and colouring – Capturing the right colours of your pet’s fur and eyes, and the texture of their fur is so important. Every stroke of pastel is carefully applied to accurately bring your pet to life on paper so that you’ll feel like you can reach in and stroke them!

Cat portrait of “Teeny” by Naomi Jenkin

More Than Just a Portrait

Your bespoke pet portrait will be a wonderful celebration of your pet’s life and the bond you share. It’s something that will be treasured for years to come, a permanent reminder of their love, loyalty, and companionship.

Whether you’re commissioning a portrait for yourself or as a heartfelt gift for a loved one, my goal is always to create something that truly resonates. When you look at your pet’s portrait, I want you to feel their presence, to see their personality shining through, and to be reminded of all the joy they bring to your life.

If you’re interested in a bespoke pet portrait, I’d love to hear all about your special companion. I’d love to work with you to create a piece of art that truly captures their unique spirit and the love you share with them. Contact me today to discuss your custom pet portrait.

You can also read the many happy client testimonials I’ve received over the years on my reviews page.

When a Detailed Background is the Perfect Choice

For many pet owners, their pet is closely associated with a particular place. Maybe it’s where they loved to spend their time, or maybe it’s a setting that holds special memories for you. In these cases, incorporating a detailed background can add a deeper emotional connection to the portrait.

Their Favourite Place

Some pets have a spot where they are happiest. A dog who loves nothing more than bounding across the beach could be beautifully captured with a backdrop of sand and sea. A cat who spends hours sunbathing in the garden could be portrayed lounging in their favourite sun-dappled spot. Horses, too, often have a special connection with their surroundings—a portrait of your horse could be set against a peaceful backdrop of their paddock, or feature the countryside where you often ride.

Portrait of “Hannah” the English Springer Spaniel

A Meaningful Memory

Perhaps you always think of your pet in a particular place—maybe you cherish memories of your moorland walks with them, or smile at the thought of them curled up on their favourite chair. Including these elements in the background can make the portrait even more sentimental, capturing not just their likeness but also the essence of your life together.

Portrait of “Sonny” the Staffy who loved the beach

An Active or Working Pet

If your pet participated in activities such as swimming, field trials, or horse riding events, a background that reflects their achievements can be a great choice. A spaniel in a field, a retriever near a lake, or a horse in a show jumping event all tell a story of their passion and purpose. This type of background highlights what made them unique and how they spent their happiest moments.

When a Simple Background Works Best

While a detailed background can enhance some portraits, there are times when a minimal approach is more fitting.

Focusing on Expression and Detail

A neutral or softly blended background ensures that the viewer’s attention is drawn straight to the pet’s face, highlighting their eyes, expression, and the fine details of their fur. If your goal is to capture the soul and personality of your pet without distraction, a simple background is often the best option.

Timeless and Elegant Look

A classic, softly shaded background can create a timeless portrait that fits beautifully in any home. This is especially great for head-and-shoulders portraits, where the emphasis is entirely on your pet’s character and likeness.

When Combining Multiple Pets

If you’re commissioning a pet portrait featuring more than one pet, a simple background can help unify the composition. This way, the focus remains on their bond and interaction rather than on a specific setting. However, if the pets shared a special place together—such as a garden or a favourite walking path—this could be subtly incorporated to enhance their story.

“Cotton and Bella”

Making the Right Choice for Your Portrait

When deciding on the background, think about what feels most true to your pet. Do you picture them in a particular place every time you think of them? Or do you simply want to see their face and expression without any distractions? There’s no right or wrong answer—only what feels right for you.

As an artist, I work closely with my clients to help make these decisions. We’ll discuss your pet’s personality, their favourite places, and what setting (if any) might complement their portrait. Whether you choose a detailed landscape or a subtle background, the most important thing is that the portrait captures your pet’s spirit in a way that resonates with you.

If you’re considering a pet portrait and need guidance on choosing the perfect background, please get in touch—I’d love to help bring your vision to life!

As a professional pet portrait artist, I understand that your pets are more than just animals — they are cherished members of your family, each with their unique personality and story. This blog will guide you through the key considerations so that together we can craft your perfect portrait.

1. Are Your Pets of Similar Size?

One of the first things to consider is whether your pets are of a similar size. A large difference in size between pets can make it challenging to balance the composition in a single portrait. For instance, capturing a horse and a dog together in full-body poses may look disproportionate.

In such cases, a ‘floating heads’ style portrait might be a wonderful solution. This approach focuses on their head and shoulders, fading softly into the background at the neck. It ensures both pets are given equal prominence, showcasing their unique expressions and personalities without any size constraints.

2. How Many Pets Are There?

The number of pets you’d like to include is another important factor. The more pets included, the smaller each one must be to fit within the space. While this can work beautifully in some cases, it may limit the level of detail I can include in each pet’s portrait. My largest portrait size of 24 x 18 inches can happily fit four pets in. If you have more than four pets, individual portraits might be the better option to ensure each pet’s unique features are fully celebrated.

My prices page lists my various size options and prices based on the number of pets in your portrait.

3. Do You Have Suitable Reference Photos?

Creating a cohesive multi-pet portrait requires reference photos that align in perspective and lighting. For example, if the photos of one pet are all taken from standing height looking down, while the photos of your other pet are taken at eye level, it will be difficult to create a cohesive composition.

If your photos vary greatly, it might be better to opt for separate portraits.

If you’re unsure whether your photos are suitable, don’t worry. I’m here to guide you through the process and advise you. I’m always happy to review the photos you have to let you know what the best options are. My photo guide also has some really useful tips to help you.

4. Did Your Pets Know Each Other?

The relationship between your pets is another factor to consider. If your pets were close companions, always snuggling or playing together, a combined portrait can beautifully capture their bond and dynamic.

Above: Cotton and Bella here are wonderful companions who have a lovely dynamic so featuring them in the same portrait was the perfect choice.

However, if your pets lived at different times or had no connection to one another, separate portraits might feel more appropriate. This way, each portrait can honour the pet’s individual legacy while still complementing each other if displayed together.

5. Do You Always Think of Your Pets Together?

Some pets are inseparable in our minds, always seen as a pair or a group. If your pets follow each other around, sleep curled up next to each other, or share toys, a joint portrait might perfectly encapsulate their togetherness.

On the other hand, if your pets prefer their own space or have independent personalities, individual portraits might better reflect their dynamic.

Above: These portraits of Burt and Lattie were commissioned as a pair. My client wanted them to capture their personalities in separate portraits, but still work as a cohesive pair. By matching the portrait sizes and dimensions, and featuring colourful flowers in both, the portraits worked together.

6. How Do You Plan to Display the Portraits?

Your display preferences are key in deciding between a combined or individual portrait. If you have a large wall space, individual portraits can create a stunning gallery-style display. If you’re working with limited wall space, a single combined portrait may be the ideal solution.

Above: These four portraits were commissioned as part of a collection of seven portraits in total. The dogs all lived at different times, so separate portraits felt the most fitting. My client wanted to display them all on the same wall so I made sure the dimensions, poses, and colours all worked together as a cohesive collection.

7. Do Your Pets Have Distinct Personalities or Habits?

Every pet has their trademark habits and favourite ways to spend their time. Whether it’s a love of the outdoors or a preference for snoozing under a blanket. Separate portraits allow each artwork to be tailored to your pet’s unique personality. For instance, a dog portrait of your energetic spaniel could show them enjoying some outdoors time, while a cat portrait might highlight their cozy nature by depicting them curled up in a favourite blanket.

A combined portrait, meanwhile, works really well if your pets share similar traits.

Above: Portrait of Lucy the cat in her favourite snuggle spot!

8. Is This for a Special Occasion?

If your pet portraits are meant as a gift, consider the timing. Spreading out individual portraits over different occasions can make thoughtful, meaningful gifts for your loved ones. For instance, you might gift a dog portrait for a birthday and a cat portrait for Christmas.

Alternatively, a combined portrait can make a single, unforgettable present, perfect for celebrating a big milestone.

Above: This portrait of Gilbert the cat was commissioned as a special 50th birthday present for my client’s husband.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a combined or individual pet portrait is deeply personal, and there’s no right or wrong answer. It’s about what feels most meaningful to you and how you wish to celebrate your pets’ unique stories. Whether you’re looking for a dog portrait, cat portrait, or even portraits of different types of pets, my goal is to create artwork that captures their true likeness, personality, and spirit.

If you’re still unsure which option is best, feel free to get in touch. I’d be delighted to discuss your ideas and help bring your vision to life. Together, we can create something truly special that you’ll treasure forever.

Pet Portrait Commissions – A Heartfelt Keepsake

For a gift that truly speaks from the heart, consider a custom hand drawn pet portrait. My pet portrait commissions capture the unique personality and spirit of your pet, creating a cherished piece of art that lasts a lifetime. I work closely with you to capture every detail and expression, so the finished portrait feels truly personal. Imagine the joy of unwrapping a beautifully rendered portrait of a furry family member on Christmas morning!

Prints of Your Pet Portrait – Share the Love

A custom pet portrait is such a meaningful gift, but why stop at one? With my pet portrait prints, you can share your beautiful portrait with your family and friends. These high-quality fine art prints retain the detail and character of the original artwork, making them the perfect personal gift for your loved ones. They’re available in a range of sizes to suit any wall or display space.

Pet Portrait Gift Vouchers – The Perfect Surprise

Gift vouchers are a fantastic option if you’d like to give a pet portrait but want your loved one to be part of the process. With a pet portrait gift voucher, they’ll get to experience the excitement of planning and creating a custom portrait of their pet. This way, they can choose the perfect photo and details for me to capture, making the portrait truly theirs. Gift vouchers are ideal for last-minute shoppers or for those who want to give the gift of choice!

Wildlife Art Paintings – Bring the Wild Indoors

For those inspired by the beauty of wildlife, my collection of original wildlife paintings brings the wonder of the natural world indoors. Each piece is crafted with care to capture the essence and spirit of our planet’s wild animals, from powerful elephants to graceful giraffes. A wildlife painting makes an unforgettable Christmas gift for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike, bringing a touch of the wild to their home décor. And if you’d like something truly tailored to your requirements, I’d be delighted to create a completely bespoke piece of wildlife art for you. Visit my wildlife art commissions page for more details.

Wildlife Art Prints – A Touch of Nature’s Beauty

If an original painting isn’t in your budget, my wildlife art prints offer a stunning, affordable alternative. Printed on high-quality materials, these limited edition fine art prints showcase the same detail and emotion as my original paintings. With a variety of animal subjects and prints sizes to choose from, you’ll find the perfect print for anyone who appreciates the beauty of wildlife. These prints are easy to frame and make a thoughtful, long lasting gift.

Seascape Prints – The Perfect Escape

There’s something so soothing about the ocean’s beauty, and my seascape prints capture that tranquillity perfectly. Whether it’s a gift for an ocean lover who finds peace in the waves or for someone who’d appreciate a calming touch of blue in their home, my seascape prints evoke the serenity of the sea. These limited edition fine art prints make beautiful, thoughtful gifts for friends and family who love the coast, bringing a breath of fresh air to any room.

Why Art Makes the Best Christmas Gift

Art gifts are meaningful, timeless, and a beautiful way to show thoughtfulness this Christmas. By choosing a custom pet portrait, a wildlife drawing, or a seascape print, you’re giving more than just art—you’re giving a piece of emotion, beauty, and memory that will be treasured for years to come.

In the interview, I talk about the special bond between gundogs and their owners, built on years of training, patience, and companionship. Capturing this connection in my dog portraits is incredibly rewarding, and I always feel honoured when people trust me to portray their beloved companions. One particularly memorable story I shared was about a working cocker spaniel called Spin, known for her fierce loyalty. Spin’s dog portrait was commissioned by her family, who treasured her devotion, and it was a true privilege to bring that love to life in my drawing of her.

The article also includes a peek into my studio and some insight into my creative process, from my choice of medium to exploring how I go about highlighting each dog’s personality in their portrait. I chat about how Charlie, my Labrador, is always by my side, keeping me company (and occasionally nudging me for a break!), and how he’s been a big inspiration in my artwork.

A huge thank you to Gundog Journal for the feature! If you’re interested in learning more about my journey, creative process, or some of the wonderful dogs I’ve had the pleasure to portray, you can find the full article in this magazine issue.

Here’s what Bethan had to say about the episode:

Using her experiences in the natural world as inspiration, Naomi creates detailed fine art with the aim of connecting people with wildlife. She is passionate about using art to help support wildlife conservation projects around the world.

Listen to hear more about:

• The beautiful landscapes and wildlife of Naomi’s nearby nature.
• The importance of the ocean for Naomi’s wellbeing and art practice.
• The steps involved in creating a realistic seascape.
• Naomi’s painting space and artistic process.
• The importance of colour.
• Capturing the life of an animal subject through the eyes.
• The relationship between time spent in nature and a motivation to protect wildlife.
• Ways that artists can use their art to make a difference in the world.
• Naomi’s experiences participating in the International Tall Ships Race.
• The role that sketchbooks play in Naomi’s art practice.
• How play can inform our work.

You can listen into the podcast by visiting Journaling With Nature, or you can tune in on Spotify or YouTube.