Classic Pencil Pet Portraits by Melanie Phillips

Classic Drawings

I create Classic pencil pet portraits of dogs, cats and horses. All I need are a few clear in-focus photos to work with. If you have a specific space in mind, I can work to bespoke sizes too — just let me know your measurements and I’ll be happy to provide a personalised quote.

Have a special occasion coming up? Let me know so I can save you a space in my commissions list. My pencil portraits are popular and I have a waiting list, but I always do my best to meet your deadline. Availability can vary throughout the year, so feel free to get in touch to check my current schedule.

What to Know About My Drawings

Choosing the right photo is one of the most important steps when commissioning a pencil pet portrait. It can take a few chats to find the perfect image, but it’s worth it. I’ll guide you through the process to help select a photo that really captures your pet’s character.

I work from one main reference image, so it needs to be clear, well-lit, and in focus. If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to offer feedback. You can send your photos to me at any time.

Have a special occasion coming up? Let me know so I can save you a space in my commissions list. My pencil portraits are popular, and I have a waiting list, but I always do my best to meet your deadline.

Helpful Tips for Taking Pet Photos

Photographs are key for the basis of a good portrait, one of the most important parts of the process. Digital cameras are the best way of photographing your pet, however good quality tablets and mobiles can work well. The best way to take photos is outside getting close to your subject. Get down on their level taking as many photos as you possibly can.

If you would like to read about taking photos for a portrait I have created a lovely page showing previous portraits. You can see photos clients have emailed and how the commission turned out. It might give you an insight into how you would like to see your pet portrayed, as it all starts with a good photo.

Bespoke, Hand Drawn Drawn Portraits

My pencil portraits are bespoke, hand drawn drawn portraits. All of my portraits are traditionally hand drawn by myself. I spend many hours working out compositions with the client, making sure the design of the portrait is right before putting pencil to paper

It is very important that all of the photos and the composition is perfect before any work start. Then once we are both happy, I sit at my easel drawing your pet - dog, cat or horse, creating a one of a kind drawing. If you prefer the traditional, classic style of a pencil drawing, then this medium is for you.

Helpful Tips for Taking Pet Photos

I use a variety of graphite pencils to create the perfect balance of detail and contrast in my pencil portraits. My favourite graphite pencils are Derwent, however I use other pencil brands too. I work from light to dark, building up the layers gradually, creating realistic, highly detailed pencil portraits.

The paper I use for my pencil portraits is Italian Fabriano which I initially found on a trip to Italy when I was at Art College in the early 90's. Fabriano papers have been produced for centuries and it is extremely high quality, so perfect for my needs.

Why not pop over to my Studio and Materials page where you can see lots more photos of where I work, my studio and the materials I use to create your portrait.

Combining Multiple Pets in One Portrait

I can combine more than one pet into the same scene, even if they’re not pictured together in your photos. I usually prefer working from individual pet photos as they provide more detail and clarity, but it’s also helpful to have a few pictures of the pets together. This allows me to gauge their size relationship and keep lighting and shadows consistent — helping to create realism and harmony in the final piece.

I can combine more than one pet into the same scene, even if they’re not pictured together in your photos. I usually prefer working from individual pet photos as they provide more detail and clarity, but it’s also helpful to have a few pictures of the pets together. This allows me to gauge their size relationship and keep lighting and shadows consistent — helping to create realism and harmony in the final piece.