Q: Who makes my pet portrait?
A: All the portraits are hand drawn or hand painted by me, Silvana Varriale. I have many years' experience in the techniques I utilize, paired with a lifelong love for capturing the singular personality of every pet.
Q: What is your work process?
A:
My process is intentionally structured so we’re fully aligned before I put pencil to paper.
- You submit the inquiry form with photos and details about your pet.
- We discuss your vision together and define every detail of the portrait: style, size, mood, background, and reference photo.
- Once everything is agreed upon, you confirm your booking with a 50% deposit and sign a commission agreement.
- Only then do I create and send you a sketch and color palette for approval.
- After your approval, I begin painting the final portrait, usually starting with the eyes, which set the emotional and visual foundation for the entire piece.
This ensures there are no surprises and that your portrait unfolds with intention, clarity, and care.
Q: How do I start a conversation with you?
A: Simply fill up the a pet portrait inquiry form where you share your vision, your pet's details and some high-quality reference photos (see question below for tips). Once submitted, it will pop up in my mail box for me to review it. I'll then promptly reach out to you to discuss the details.
Q: How do I secure my spot for a custom pet portrait?
A:
Once we’ve finalized all details of your portrait, a 50% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your booking.
The deposit:
- secures your place on my calendar
- formally starts the commission
- allows me to create your sketch and color palette for approval
Work on the portrait begins only after the deposit is received and the agreement is signed.
Q: How do I pay for the deposit?
A: After I review your inquiry form and we agree on the details, you will receive a secure payment link for the deposit and the commission agreement to be signed.
This document outlines our timeline and project specifics, ensuring we are both aligned before the first brushstroke.
Q: Why do you need reference photos for my pet's portrait?
A: By working from your reference photos I can capture your pet's unique personality. Together, we'll select the best image to use for the portrait.
Q: What do you mean by “high-quality reference photos”?
A: You don’t need an expensive camera, a good mobile phone will do! Photos should be:
- Well-lit and contrasted: natural light is better than flash, good balance between highlights and shadows.
- Eyes visible & in focus: because... the eyes are the mirror of the soul!
- No pixelation/blurriness: facial features must be clearly visible.
- Unobstructed: no filters or objects blocking your pet.
See my photo guide for visual examples.
Q: Why these guidelines?
A: I painted and drew many portraits and I can tell you that a bad reference photo turns into a soulless portraits, guaranteed.
Q: What if I don’t have good photos and my pet has sadly passed?
A: For pets who have passed, I understand that your photos are precious and sometimes limited. While I will be honest with you about what is technically possible, I will do everything in my power to honor their memory with the images you have.
Q: How is pricing determined?
A: Some techniques require more time to complete, increasing the cost.
Q: How will I know how the portrait is coming along?
A: I’ll send progress photos along the way. You can decide how often along the way you want to get updates. Just email me and I'll be happy to keep you up to speed.
Q: What if I am not happy with the finished portrait?
A: My goal is a piece you’ll treasure forever. You will receive high-resolution photos of the finished work for approval. In the rare event it doesn't meet your expectations, you are not required to pay the remaining balance, and the project will conclude. Please note that the initial deposit remains non-refundable as it covers the dedicated time and materials invested in your custom artwork.
Q: How soon will you start working?
A: I begin as soon as a spot is available and we’ve agreed in writing on your portrait details. From January to September, I recommend reaching out at least a month in advance. During busier seasons like October–December, two months ahead is best.
Q: How do you select pet portrait projects?
A: Strictly on a first come, first served basis to ensure equal treatment.
Q: How long does completion take?
A: Turnaround time is between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on size, style, and complexity. We’ll agree on a completion date, then confirm details in writing.
Q: Can I request changes?
A: One round of minor revisions is included. Major changes afterward require a new agreement and may mean losing your deposit. This is because the art techniques (watercolor, graphite pencil, white pencil) I use don’t allow erasing without compromising the finished piece.
Q: Can I share the portrait on social media?
A: Yes! Please credit me by tagging or mentioning my name or website. I just ask you please not to share the work-in-progress photos I'll be sending you to keep you up to speed.
Q: Can I give the portrait as a gift?
A: Absolutely! Once we start, I will tell you where to add the receiver's address if you want me to deliver it to them directly.
Q: Will you gift-wrap it?
A: While I don't offer external 'gift wrap,' the unboxing experience is curated to be impeccable.
Q: What if I need the portrait done very quickly?
A: I don’t accept rush orders, as I believe quality requires time. If you need faster service, I may not be the right fit.
Q: What if I want expedited shipping?
A: My handmade pet portraits ship free with standard or express shipping (depending on your due date). If you need next-day delivery, please contact me. Shipping fees for next day delivery will apply.
Q: Can I return the portrait?
A: Because each piece is custom, returns are not accepted. Thanks for your understanding.
Still have a specific vision in mind? The best way to start the conversation is via the initial Commission Inquiry Form. I will personally review every request and get back to you to discuss the best way to beautifully honor your pet’s unique character.