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How to Choose which Size is Best for your Pet’s Portrait

Realistic drawings of a pug, spaniel, and horse in different sizes

My price list comprises just 4-5 standard UK paper and frame sizes;

4x4”, 6x4”, A5, A4 and 12x16”. 

Whilst you are able to commission a portrait from me at pretty much any paper size, I limit the number of sizes I offer on my website, as from my experience, having too many options can be quite overwhelming... especially when you don’t even know where to start.



A weimaraner dog lays on a cushioned bench with his framed custom dog portrait hanging above.
Harvey's portrait 14x14" framed

I’ve had commissions in the past where my clients have come to me with a specific size in mind. Harvey’s owners already had a 14x14” print of another dog, and so they wanted me to create a portrait of Harvey the same size so they could go on the wall together.


Similarly, Rocco’s owner had big plans for a whole wall to be filled with artwork of him, and after measuring the space and discussing options with me, they decided on A2 size paper.


Brown cocker spaniel realistic coloured pencil drawings on white paper, showcasing different poses: one with a tennis ball, others displaying playful and relaxed expressions.
Rocco's portrait A2 size paper

These examples may be useful for you to bear in mind when deciding on your own portrait, think of other artwork or photos you already have in your home, will they fit in together? Or do you have a blank wall space that is perfect for your pet’s portrait to hang as its own statement piece of artwork?


How big is the space, and what is your budget?

It’s worth considering where you would like their portrait to go, whether it be on the wall at home, your bedside table, or your desk at work! Take a look at the space and where the portrait will fit. You also need to take into consideration the overall size of the artwork once it is framed.


Golden retriever coloured pencil drawing on white paper, a4 size, in a 12x16 inch white mount.
A4 golden retriever portrait in a 12x16 inch mount

To display your pet’s portrait I always recommend mounting and framing the artwork to protect it and ensure it lasts a lifetime.

For example, I often mount my A4 size portraits to fit a size 12x16” frame, so this is the size space you will need.


Budget is also often a determining factor in deciding your commission’s size, particularly when it comes to ordering a portrait as a gift for someone else. My price list will give you an idea of cost, and as I mentioned above, it includes standard sizes so it should be easy for  the recipient to find a frame that is the correct size and suits their home decor.


For multiple pets drawn together, or full body portraits, take a look at my size guide for advice on which size portraits work best.



If you have no idea where you’re going to put your portrait just yet, I’m more than happy to offer personal advice and guidance. I have been drawing for over 5 years so I understand what works with different photos and sizes. 


Please be assured that I will NEVER try to ‘upsell’ you - the most important thing for me is that you have a portrait you love, I offer a range of sizes so there is something for every budget and space. I will never talk you into spending more if it isn’t right for you or your pet.


For further advice on sizes, please send me a message with some photos of your pet, from here I am able to let you know what sizes will or won’t work with your photos.

For larger scale portraits, I will need at least one clear and detailed reference photo - take a look at my photo guide for advice on what makes for the best quality photos.


If the only photos you have are a little blurry, out of focus, taken far away… I will always be realistic with you about what can be achieved - a smaller size portrait will often be the best option here.


Click here to get in touch regarding your pet portrait commission


Follow Catrin Membery - Pet Portrait Artist on social media for recent artwork, up-to-date availability, and behind the scenes.




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