How to Commission a Pet Memorial Portrait: Step-by-Step Guide

Commissioning a pet memorial portrait is easier when you separate the process into practical decisions: choose the photograph, gather supporting references, select the portrait style and format, review the artwork proof, then approve the finished design for production.

The process can be done whenever you feel ready. There is no rule that memorial artwork must be ordered immediately after a loss.

Step 1: Choose the photograph that feels most like your pet

Do not automatically choose the newest or final photograph. Look for the expression, age or life stage you remember most clearly, provided the image still shows enough useful detail.

The eyes, ears, face shape, coat markings and natural colour should be visible where possible. A clear phone photograph is perfectly suitable.

Step 2: Gather supporting photos

If your favourite photo hides one ear, a chest marking or part of the coat, keep additional images that show those details. Supporting photographs are particularly useful when the main image is old, faded or soft.

Our old-photo memorial portrait guide explains how to assess imperfect images.

Step 3: Decide what kind of portrait you want

A memorial portrait does not have to be solemn or use one supposedly correct style. Some owners prefer calm, understated artwork. Others want the same humorous, royal or colourful style that best reflected the pet while they were alive.

Use our pet portrait styles UK guide to compare the main directions, then browse the current pet memorial portrait collection.

Step 4: Decide whether to include a collar, tag, name or dates

Keep a collar or tag when it feels part of the pet's familiar appearance. Remove it when you prefer a cleaner image. Names and dates are similarly optional.

See our collar, tag and harness guide and memorial portrait wording guide.

Step 5: Choose the physical format and size

A framed portrait and canvas create different visual effects. Measure the intended wall or surface before choosing, and check the current dimensions shown on the product page.

Use our framed pet portraits UK guide, pet portrait canvas UK guide and pet portrait size guide.

Step 6: Upload the clearest source files

Use original image files where possible rather than screenshots of social-media posts. Label multiple references clearly if more than one pet or several supporting images are involved.

For dogs, see our dog memorial portrait photo guide. For cats, see the cat memorial portrait photo guide.

Step 7: Review the artwork proof carefully

Paw & Glory's current custom portrait workflow includes an artwork preview before production. Check the overall likeness first, then the details that matter most: eyes, expression, markings, colour, positioning and any text.

If a change is needed, make the request specific and add another reference photo when it helps show the detail clearly.

Our proof, revisions and approval guide explains what to check.

Step 8: Approve the artwork only when you are happy with it

Once the portrait feels recognisable and the personalisation is correct, approval allows the artwork to move into physical production. Take an extra moment to check names or dates before approving them. Spelling has a remarkable ability to become more obvious after printing.

Step 9: Plan where the portrait will live

You do not need to display a memorial portrait prominently. A bedroom, home office, hallway, shelf or dedicated remembrance corner can all be appropriate. Choose the location according to how visible you want the reminder to be.

For a small dedicated arrangement, see our pet memorial corner guide.

How long does a memorial portrait take?

For Paw & Glory's current UK workflow, the artwork proof is usually quoted at 3–5 working days, with typical UK delivery of 5–8 working days after approval. Revisions, replacement photos, your own approval time, peak periods and courier disruption can extend the total.

Use our custom pet portrait timeline guide for the current stages and treat the live Shipping & Delivery page as the final source.

What if the memorial portrait is a gift?

Make sure the recipient would welcome visible memorial artwork. A favourite photograph, memory book, handwritten card or donation may be more appropriate when their preferences are uncertain.

Our pet loss gifts guide compares several alternatives.

Commissioning checklist

• Choose the photograph for familiarity as well as clarity.
• Collect supporting images for hidden details.
• Select a style that reflects the pet and owner.
• Decide whether names, dates or accessories belong in the portrait.
• Measure the display space and choose the format.
• Upload original files where possible.
• Review likeness and personalisation in the proof.
• Approve only once the details feel right.

Frequently asked questions

Can a memorial portrait be commissioned from one old photo?

Potentially, yes, if enough reliable detail remains visible. Supporting photographs are helpful but not always available.

Does a memorial portrait need to look serious?

No. The style should reflect the pet and the person remembering them. A characterful style can be appropriate when it feels authentic.

Should I order a larger memorial portrait?

Choose the size for the actual wall or display area rather than assuming larger is more meaningful. Measure first.

Can I request changes before production?

Paw & Glory's current custom portrait workflow includes artwork preview and edits before approval. Check the current product page for the exact options attached to your chosen design.

Commissioning a memorial portrait is mostly a sequence of small choices. The photograph is the foundation; everything else should support the version of the pet you want to keep visible.