The Journal

Notes from the studio

Practical advice for getting a custom pet portrait you'll love for decades — choosing photos, picking sizes, gifting, and honoring the ones we've lost.

September 2026 · 6 min read

How much does a custom pet portrait cost?

From under $10 to $500+: what actually drives the price of a custom pet portrait, and how to get the most for your budget.

Read the guide → September 2026 · 5 min read

Memorial pet portrait ideas

Thoughtful ways to honor a dog who has passed — and how to commission a memorial portrait from an old or imperfect photo.

Read the guide → September 2026 · 5 min read

Custom pet portrait gift ideas for dog lovers

Framed prints, ornaments, mugs, blankets — the pet portrait gifts dog lovers actually keep, plus timing tips so it arrives on time.

Read the guide → September 2026 · 5 min read

How to choose the perfect photo for your custom pet portrait

The photo you send is 80% of the portrait. Here's exactly what to look for — lighting, angle, expression, resolution — and the common mistakes to avoid.

Read the guide →