To many of us our pets are not "just animals"...they're family. As a family member, each is totally unique in personality and character. To truly capture that special look that makes your pet look different than any other takes great attention to every detail.

You can help me do this by providing photos that record different aspects of your particular pet; what makes them truly special. Whether you are looking through old photos of a friend who is no longer with you or are ready to take some new photos, look for shots that catch that special look/pose that most characterizes your pet. Is it that tilted head? A silly grin? Maybe it's that sad, "I'm sorry" look. The clearer the photo, the less "guesswork" I have to do in re-creating your pet's individual "look". Please read the photo tips page for suggestions.

I do my primary work from a photo you've selected that captures the pose you like best and then use other photos to help in re-creating the right color of coat or eyes and so forth. You will have lots of opportunity to be involved in the creative process in making this a unique keepsake. If you want a background, I can do just some colors to contrast your pet's color or it can be a fully detailed painting of whatever you like. Or perhaps you prefer a classical look of of your pet's likeness on a soft solid colored background. Maybe your pet had a favorite place you'd like to use as a background. I can even combine photos of different pets in the same painting. You decide whether you want just your pet's bust (head/neck/shoulders) or their full body portrayed. And of course you get a choice of the size that will fit your wall and wallet the best. Prices vary depending on what you decide on and reflect the amount of time it will require for me to complete your portrait. Please refer to the prices & ordering page for detailed information as to my price breakdown.

Pastels are my chosen medium for portraits. Pastels are the most permanent of all mediums because there are no liquid binders to darken, fade, yellow or crack with time. What you get now will still look exactly the same 100 years from now. Many of the great masters used pastels as finished works as well as preliminary sketches as far back as the 16th century. Pastels have been enjoying a resurgence in their popularity since the 1970's. I use a premium quality acid-free velour paper as my support; velour paper has a texture exactly as its name describes which imparts a uniquely soft and life-like 3-D texture and look which is impossible to capture on a flat computer screen.

Once we have discussed the details of your portrait, I can begin work on your own unique original painting to immortalize your forever friend. If you like, I can take digital photos as I progress on your painting for your input. This allows you to have even more involvement in making sure your portrait absolutely captures your pet's unique personality. I hope you will allow me to work with you in creating this special treasure.

	Cynthia Christman Christman Portraits & Wildlife Creations 6145 Hwy 70 East St. Germain, WI 54558 Phone: (715) 479-9586 e-mail: christmanportraits@gmail.com