When I’m asked to paint a commission, my first question is always, "How would you like the portrait portrayed?"

It can be a head study, a full body portrait standing alone, or showing the pet in a special setting; possibly a room or a landscape.

Next we have to decide on size; modern walls and homes often have limited space and also the bigger the painting the more expensive it will be.

Then I must think about suitable reference. Sometimes I am asked to paint a dear pet that has died and then I have to rely on photos provided by the owner.

Whenever possible I try to take my own photographs and a photo session can take several hours, while I get to know the animal and learn the character and mannerisms. This can be difficult if the client lives in Scotland or abroad. Then I have to rely on e-mail, and verbal suggestions as to possible lighting and pose!

When I’m behind the camera I take photographs from all different angles and heights, but it’s always the eyes that I must make sure I can see clearly.

I will wait until the pet is relaxed in my company and then go for the natural cheeky pose that makes that animal special.

The painting is then completed over several weeks, using a variety of mediums, sometimes watercolour and coloured pencil and occasionally acrylic inks.    Jenny Kennish S.F.P.