How It Works — Commission Your Artwork with MJLArt

How It Works

Average booking: 2–3 week turnaround

Commissioning Your Pet Portrait

Commissioning a personalised pet portrait with MJLArt is a simple, secure and enjoyable process. With over 20 years of experience as a UK pet portrait artist, Matt guides you from your initial enquiry through to the final delivery of your hand-drawn or painted artwork.

From choosing your preferred size and medium — whether graphite, coloured pencil or acrylic — to uploading your reference photo and securing your booking with a 50% deposit, every step is designed to make ordering your custom pet portrait straightforward and stress-free.

Clear communication is provided throughout the commission to ensure your portrait captures the true personality, character and detail of your beloved dog, cat, horse or companion animal.

01 — Choose Your Photo

Choosing the right reference photo is the most important part of the process, as it directly influences the quality and detail of the final portrait.

For the best results, select a clear, high-resolution image taken at your pet’s eye level with natural lighting and minimal blur.

If you're unsure, you can view the photo guide for helpful tips, or send over a selection of images and I’ll personally advise on the most suitable option.

Colour Pencil Portfolio Graphite Pencil Portfolio View Photo Guide Send Images

02 — Mock-Up & Consultation

After we have agreed on the best photo(s) and any details you would like for the artwork, I will create a mock-up so you can visualise your portrait before work begins.

The mock-up shows how the portrait will look with the selected colour options and framing so everything is confirmed before drawing begins.

See how your portrait develops from photo to finished artwork

Original Photo
Mock-Up
Final Portrait

03 — Secure Your Booking

A 50% deposit secures your place and confirms the booking.

The deposit can be paid through the pricing table or via a secure payment link I can send directly.

The deposit covers 50% of the portrait price including any selected framing.

View Price List Check Availability

04 — Creation & Updates

Once your booking is confirmed, if framing has been selected your bespoke frame will be ordered so it arrives in time for the finished artwork.

Your portrait is then carefully hand drawn with close attention to detail.

Portraits typically take 2–3 weeks depending on availability, though this may extend slightly during busy periods such as Christmas.

05 — Approval & Delivery

When the portrait is completed I will send you a proof image of the finished artwork.

Once approved, the remaining 50% balance is paid before the artwork is carefully packaged and posted.

Your portrait will be shipped via tracked delivery and you will receive the tracking details once dispatched.

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What’s Included With Every Commission

  • Photo review and consultation around requirements
  • Free mock-up image before work starts
  • Regular progress updates
  • Hand-crafted artwork by Matt Lloyd
  • Bespoke framing so artwork is ready to hang (Optional)
  • Certificate of Authenticity
  • Final approval before dispatch
  • Free UK tracked postage

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Most pet portraits are completed within 2–3 weeks from the start date. This can vary slightly depending on current demand, portrait size, and the level of detail required. If you need a portrait for a specific date or gift, it’s best to book early to secure a place in the schedule. You can check current availability here

  • Commissioning a portrait is simple. First choose your preferred size and medium, then send over a reference photo of your pet. Once we agree on the best image and details, a mock-up is created for approval. Your booking is secured with a 50% deposit, and work on the portrait then begins

  • The best reference photos are clear, high-resolution images taken at your pet’s eye level. Natural lighting and sharp detail around the eyes and fur help create the most lifelike results. If you’re unsure which photo to use, you can send a few options and guidance will be provided on the best choice. Please also view the Photo Guide for more guidance

  • The ideal portrait size depends on where you plan to display the artwork and how much detail you’d like included. Smaller sizes work well for single pet portraits, while larger sizes allow for more detail or multiple pets. If you’re unsure, advice can be given based on your photo and the style you prefer.

  • Yes, it is possible to create a portrait that includes multiple pets from separate photographs. As long as each image is clear and well lit, the pets can be arranged naturally within the final composition.

  • Yes. Once the portrait is completed, you will receive a final proof image for approval before it is packaged and dispatched. This ensures you are completely happy with the artwork before you pay the outstanding 50% balance and your portrait is securely posted to you.

  • Yes, bespoke framing is available as an optional extra. Frames are available in 3 colour options for you to select to complement the portrait and arrive ready to hang, so the artwork can be displayed immediately.Item description. You can see more on the framing guide page

  • All portraits are carefully packaged and shipped via tracked delivery. UK tracked postage is included, and tracking details are provided once the artwork has been dispatched

  • Absolutely. Pet portraits make very personal and meaningful gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and memorials. If the portrait is for a special occasion, it’s recommended to book early to guarantee completion in time. Matt will add in a bespoke greeting card with your message