Work in Progress

Completed Artwork

Rhonda was able to take an idea for our baby's nursery and turn it into a beautiful work of art. It's absolutely perfect! One of our favorite things in his room.
~BritneyI just wanted to thank you for the portrait you did of Rambo, a birthday gift for my sister-in-law. We both cannot believe how realistic and beautiful the portrait turned out. You are an amazing artist.
~RitaI’ve known Rhonda for years; I always knew she had an artistic talent. When my beloved dog suddenly passed away, Rhonda knew I was heartbroken. A few weeks passed and Rhonda gifted me with a truly lifelike drawing of my Kora. I will never forget that day. The detail in her drawing is amazing. This woman deserves to be doing what she loves to do, and has been gifted to do. She’s an amazing talent.
~TisaThe picture Rhonda made for me of my sweet puppy is perfect. The time she puts into her art and the detail is incredible. You will not be disappointed!
~TrishaRhonda did an amazing dolphin art piece for me. I absolutely love it! I have yet to frame it, but it is going to look beautiful on my wall. Her passion and skill for drawing is clearly visible in her work. I've looked at many of her pieces and I'm amazed at them all. Absolutely beautiful. You won't be disappointed! Thank you again Rhonda for my amazing dolphin picture.
~Kim

The art piece turned out beautiful and well beyond my expectations! I would definitely recommend Rhonda to anyone! Thank you, thank you! So happy!
~TennilleShe did an amazing job on my Christmas present from my mom. The care and detail she put into it was phenomenal. She is extremely talented and I would recommend her to anyone that asks! You most certainly won't be disappointed at all. Thank you so much Rhonda for the beautiful picture of my dogs!!
~JenI cannot begin to thank you enough for the stunningly beautiful portrait you did of Loki. Your love of animals certainly shines through in your work. You are so incredibly talented.
~LynnRhonda did a portrait of our 13 year old Shih Tzu / Bichon Frise mix. I was blown away at the perfect likeness of our dog. She captured our dog perfectly. We will cherish her portrait forever. Amazingly talented lady. Thank you Rhonda!
~AnnaFor Christmas this year, Rhonda drew a portrait of my family's cat, which I gave to my sister. It was excellently done, and it was certainly the highlight of the holidays. I definitely recommend Rhonda, as she puts so much time and effort into her art. You will not be disappointed!
~JoshI can't believe she captured Paco so well. She is so talented!
~Diane

8" x 10"

$145

one subject
(head only)

9" x 12"

$195

one subject
(head only)

11" x 14"

$245

one subject
(head/full body)
_{______}

$310

two subjects
(heads only)

12" x 16"

$295

one subject
(head/full body)
_{______}

$375

two subjects
(heads only)

8" x 10"

$165

one subject
(head only)

9" x 12"

$220

one subject
(head only)

11" x 14"

$275

one subject
(head/full body)
_{______}

$350

two subjects
(heads only)

12" x 16"

$330

one subject
(head/full body)
_{______}

$420

two subjects
(heads only)

8" x 10"

$185

one subject
(head only)

9" x 12"

$250

one subject
(head only)

11" x 14"

$315

one subject
(head/full body)
_{______}

$400

two subjects
(heads only)

12" x 16"

$380

one subject
(head/full body)
_{______}

$480

two subjects
(heads only)

Are your portraits handmade?
Yes, my portraits are handmade, using professional, artist grade art mediums and acid-free, archival materials.Where can I read reviews from past clients?
You can find client reviews in the About Me section.What art mediums are available?
As a multi-passionate creative, I work in a variety of art mediums, including pen and ink, coloured pencil and pyrography (woodburning). Examples of artwork created using these mediums can be viewed in the Portrait Gallery.How long does it take to complete a portrait?
I complete portraits on a first come, first served basis. Typically, they take 30-90 days to finish, depending on the size of the portrait and the number of portraits currently booked in my calendar. An estimated delivery date is provided after the down payment has been paid.What portrait sizes are available?
Portraits are available in 8"x10", 9"x12", 11"x14" and 12"x16" standard picture frame sizes. For details, please visit the Portrait Prices section.How many subjects can I include?
One or two subjects can be included in one portrait, depending on the portrait size you order. For details, please refer to the Portrait Prices section.How do you create portraits with two subjects?
First, I remove the background from each reference photo using design software. Then I edit, resize and enhance the photos as needed. Finally, I combine the two photos to create a rough draft of the layout I intend to use. This rough draft is sent to my client for approval. After approval, I transfer an outline of the rough draft to the paper or wood surface I'll be using.Can you make a portrait of any animal?
Yes, I can make a portrait of any wild or domestic animal, as long as I have a good reference photo with enough detail.How do I know if my reference photos are good enough?
The better the photo, the better the portrait. High-resolution photos with lots of detail and good lighting are required to achieve a high degree of realism. I often combine the best elements from several reference photos, so send more than one for each subject, if possible. Don't worry if something else is visible in the photo, as long as the subject is in focus. I will let you know if your reference photos are suitable at the time of ordering. Please read my Pet Photography Tips for helpful advice.Can I use someone else's photo?
If the photographer has given you written permission to use their photo, it can be used as a reference for your portrait. You may also find suitable copyright-free images on websites such as Pixabay and Unsplash.Can I use your artwork for commercial purposes?
No, you can not use my artwork for commercial purposes (for profit). Commissioned artwork is for personal use only and can not be reproduced in any way or used for any commercial purpose without my written permission. My artwork is copyrighted and I reserve the right to use it for promotional and/or commercial purposes.

How does the ordering process work?
There are 5 steps involved in ordering a custom portrait. You can read an explanation of these steps in the Ordering Process section.What do your portraits cost?
My portraits vary in price, depending on the size, medium and number of subjects. For details, please visit the Portrait Prices section.What methods of payment do you accept?
I accept payment by Interac e-Transfer, direct bank deposit or credit card.How are payments made?
The portrait price is divided in half and paid in two, non-refundable 50% payments, which are invoiced separately. A link is provided with each invoice, along with instructions for making payment.When will I receive the first invoice?
After I have approved the reference photos, I will send you the first invoice, with instructions for paying the non-refundable 50% down payment. Once I receive your down payment, I will book your portrait in my calendar and send you an estimated delivery date.When will I receive the second invoice?
After you have approved the completed portrait, I will send you the second invoice, with instructions for paying the non-refundable 50% final payment. Once I receive your final payment, I will ship your portrait and send you a tracking number.Can I cancel my order?
Yes, you can cancel your order at any time; however, please keep in mind that any payments made up to that point are non-refundable.Do you offer refunds?
No, I do not offer refunds due to the highly personal and customized nature of my work. However, I do provide several in-progress photos for your approval. This allows minor adjustments to be made as the work progresses, to ensure your satisfaction with the completed portrait.What countries do you ship to and what does it cost?
I offer free shipping in Canada and the US (excluding duty/fees/taxes).How do you ship your portraits?
All shipments are insured and a tracking number is provided. Portraits are sealed inside poly wrap to prevent water damage, surrounded by foam board to prevent punctures and enclosed in rigid cardboard mailers to prevent bending and/or damage if dropped.When can I expect my parcel delivery?
You can expect your parcel delivery within 5-10 business days, depending on your location. I am not responsible for shipping delays that are out of my control (ie: delays caused by US customs or the shipping company).How should I frame my portrait?
Paper portraits should be framed using acid-free, archival materials. Wood portraits have hanging hardware on the back and do not require framing. I recommend that you hang your paper or wood portrait away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

1) Take lots of pictures. The more you take, the better your chances of getting the perfect shot. For the best results, I prefer to work from several head and body reference photos. This allows me to accurately replicate your pet's unique facial features, eye colour, markings and coat texture.2) Use a tripod and turn off the flash. Photos taken outside with a tripod and no flash are best for pet portraits. The tripod will steady your shots and the natural light will provide an accurate colour reference. Shooting on slightly overcast days, or in the shade on a sunny day, will give you the best results. Have your pet face the sun to avoid having dark shadows on their face.3) Get down to their eye level. Shooting your pet at their eye level, by crouching down or having them sit on a chair, allows you to capture accurate facial features and body proportions.4) Try different camera angles. Take pictures of your pet from different perspectives to so you don't miss important details. Shoot them facing you straight on and from the right and left side. This will allow me to see the colour of both eyes, the shape of the nose and the direction of the fur.5) Choose your location carefully. Find a quiet spot with few distractions that is familiar to your pet, so they will feel comfortable and at ease. Keep your pet in focus and don't worry about what is visible in the background, as I will remove the background with software.

Get Down to Their Eye Level

6) Get their attention and make it fun. Hold treats or toys above your head to help them stay focused on you. Reward them often with treats and short breaks to play with their toys.7) Tire them out. If your pet tends to be too excited and impatient to cooperate with you, give them some exercise beforehand, so they will be calm and relaxed during the shoot.8) Get in close. Capture as many fine details as possible. Photos that are in focus, with lots of detail make the best reference photos. The better the photo, the better your pet portrait will be. Zoom in to get shots of their eyes, nose and any unique markings on their face or body.9) Ask for help. Get a friend or family member to assist with posing your pet. Ask them to hold your pet still or handle the leash, so you can focus on getting the best picture you can.10) Capture their unique personality. Does your pet have a facial expression or head tilt that you feel is unique to them? The one that makes your heart melt every time they make that face or strike that pose? Photos that capture a pet's unique personality are perfect for pet portraits.

Capture Their Unique Personality

Step 1:
You begin the ordering process by filling out the Order Form and attaching up to 8 reference photos.*Please read my Pet Photography Tips for helpful advice on taking pictures of your pet before you submit your order.

Step 2:
I receive your order and determine if your photos are suitable for my work.a) If they are suitable, I will e-mail an invoice with instructions for making the non-refundable 50% down payment. Once I receive your down payment, I will book your portrait in my calendar and send you an estimated delivery date.b) If your photos are not suitable, I will let you know so you can send better ones.

Step 3:
Using design software, I will edit, enhance or combine your reference photos to create a rough draft image to work from and send it to you for approval. Once you approve the rough draft, I will transfer an outline of the image to my paper or wood surface.

Step 4:
As I work on your portrait, I will send in-progress photos for your approval. This allows minor adjustments to be made as the work progresses, to ensure your satisfaction with the completed portrait.

Step 5:
When the portrait is completed, I will send you a second invoice for the remaining non-refundable 50% payment. Once I receive your final payment, I will ship your portrait and send you a tracking number.