If you have more than one pet in your family, and you’re commissioning a hand-drawn pet portrait, one of the first questions is whether to include all your pets in one portrait or give each their own. It can feel like a tricky decision, but I’m here to help!
As a professional pet portrait artist, I understand that your pets are more than just animals — they are cherished members of your family, each with their unique personality and story. This blog will guide you through the key considerations so that together we can craft your perfect portrait.
1. Are Your Pets of Similar Size?
One of the first things to consider is whether your pets are of a similar size. A large difference in size between pets can make it challenging to balance the composition in a single portrait. For instance, capturing a horse and a dog together in full-body poses may look disproportionate.
In such cases, a ‘floating heads’ style portrait might be a wonderful solution. This approach focuses on their head and shoulders, fading softly into the background at the neck. It ensures both pets are given equal prominence, showcasing their unique expressions and personalities without any size constraints.
2. How Many Pets Are There?
The number of pets you’d like to include is another important factor. The more pets included, the smaller each one must be to fit within the space. While this can work beautifully in some cases, it may limit the level of detail I can include in each pet’s portrait. My largest portrait size of 24 x 18 inches can happily fit four pets in. If you have more than four pets, individual portraits might be the better option to ensure each pet’s unique features are fully celebrated.
My prices page lists my various size options and prices based on the number of pets in your portrait.
3. Do You Have Suitable Reference Photos?
Creating a cohesive multi-pet portrait requires reference photos that align in perspective and lighting. For example, if the photos of one pet are all taken from standing height looking down, while the photos of your other pet are taken at eye level, it will be difficult to create a cohesive composition.
If your photos vary greatly, it might be better to opt for separate portraits.
If you’re unsure whether your photos are suitable, don’t worry. I’m here to guide you through the process and advise you. I’m always happy to review the photos you have to let you know what the best options are. My photo guide also has some really useful tips to help you.
4. Did Your Pets Know Each Other?
The relationship between your pets is another factor to consider. If your pets were close companions, always snuggling or playing together, a combined portrait can beautifully capture their bond and dynamic.
Above: Cotton and Bella here are wonderful companions who have a lovely dynamic so featuring them in the same portrait was the perfect choice.
However, if your pets lived at different times or had no connection to one another, separate portraits might feel more appropriate. This way, each portrait can honour the pet’s individual legacy while still complementing each other if displayed together.
5. Do You Always Think of Your Pets Together?
Some pets are inseparable in our minds, always seen as a pair or a group. If your pets follow each other around, sleep curled up next to each other, or share toys, a joint portrait might perfectly encapsulate their togetherness.
On the other hand, if your pets prefer their own space or have independent personalities, individual portraits might better reflect their dynamic.
Above: These portraits of Burt and Lattie were commissioned as a pair. My client wanted them to capture their personalities in separate portraits, but still work as a cohesive pair. By matching the portrait sizes and dimensions, and featuring colourful flowers in both, the portraits worked together.
6. How Do You Plan to Display the Portraits?
Your display preferences are key in deciding between a combined or individual portrait. If you have a large wall space, individual portraits can create a stunning gallery-style display. If you’re working with limited wall space, a single combined portrait may be the ideal solution.
Above: These four portraits were commissioned as part of a collection of seven portraits in total. The dogs all lived at different times, so separate portraits felt the most fitting. My client wanted to display them all on the same wall so I made sure the dimensions, poses, and colours all worked together as a cohesive collection.
7. Do Your Pets Have Distinct Personalities or Habits?
Every pet has their trademark habits and favourite ways to spend their time. Whether it’s a love of the outdoors or a preference for snoozing under a blanket. Separate portraits allow each artwork to be tailored to your pet’s unique personality. For instance, a dog portrait of your energetic spaniel could show them enjoying some outdoors time, while a cat portrait might highlight their cozy nature by depicting them curled up in a favourite blanket.
A combined portrait, meanwhile, works really well if your pets share similar traits.
Above: Portrait of Lucy the cat in her favourite snuggle spot!
8. Is This for a Special Occasion?
If your pet portraits are meant as a gift, consider the timing. Spreading out individual portraits over different occasions can make thoughtful, meaningful gifts for your loved ones. For instance, you might gift a dog portrait for a birthday and a cat portrait for Christmas.
Alternatively, a combined portrait can make a single, unforgettable present, perfect for celebrating a big milestone.
Above: This portrait of Gilbert the cat was commissioned as a special 50th birthday present for my client’s husband.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a combined or individual pet portrait is deeply personal, and there’s no right or wrong answer. It’s about what feels most meaningful to you and how you wish to celebrate your pets’ unique stories. Whether you’re looking for a dog portrait, cat portrait, or even portraits of different types of pets, my goal is to create artwork that captures their true likeness, personality, and spirit.
If you’re still unsure which option is best, feel free to get in touch. I’d be delighted to discuss your ideas and help bring your vision to life. Together, we can create something truly special that you’ll treasure forever.
