What makes a good photo?
Every portrait is hand-painted in oil from the photograph you send. The clearer your reference, the more faithfully our artists can capture your companion.
A photograph to choose
- Clear and in focus — sharp enough to see fur detail and eyes.
- Soft, natural light — daytime, near a window or outdoors in shade.
- Eye-level and close up — taken at your pet's height, filling the frame.
- Facing the camera — eyes and expression clearly visible.
- Original, full resolution — send the largest version you have.
Best left aside
- Blurry or low quality — motion blur or pixelated screenshots.
- Too dark or backlit — harsh shadows hide your pet's features.
- Far away or tiny in frame — the face can't be seen clearly.
- Shot from above — distorts proportions and the expression.
- Heavy filters — they change your pet's true colours.
Questions & answers
Before you commission
How long until my portrait arrives?
Your hand-drawn sketch arrives within 2–3 days of ordering. Each piece is then painted entirely by hand, so from order to your door please allow 4–6 weeks in total — painting, drying, framing and delivery included. We try not to interrupt the artist at work — but if you'd like to see how your painting is coming along, just email neo@maelinstudio.com and we'll send you the latest progress.
What kind of photo works best?
A clear, well-lit photo where your pet's eyes are sharp and in focus. Natural daylight beats flash every time. Not sure which to use? Send a few and we'll help you choose.
Can I choose the painting style?
Yes. Classical oil, modern impressionist or bold contemporary — you pick the school when you order, and your artist paints to match it.
What if it doesn't look quite right?
You approve a hand-drawn sketch before any paint touches the canvas, and you can revise it as many times as you like — not a drop of oil until you approve. Once painting begins we keep adjusting at no charge — there's no cap on rounds — until it matches the sketch you approved, and nothing ships until it does.