The process of commissioning a portrait is not only fun, but exciting, too. The fun part is working together gathering and sending me reference photos and then watching the painting take shape over the course of several days. The exciting part is when you sign for the package from your UPS driver and unpack an extremely well wrapped box (thanks to my packer/shipper, Steve) to reveal the masterpiece that exceeds your expectations.

Let’s work together on your custom portrait painting. You’ll be glad you did.

I use professional quality acrylic paint on museum quality cotton canvas offered in a gallery wrapped format. I work from photos supplied by you or taken by me if you are in the New Orleans area.

A 50% deposit is required and payment of the balance through Venmo, Zelle, or Paypal is due upon completion. I ship via UPS using a professional fine art packer. Shipping cost will be determined at the time of shipping.

Upon approval of the composition based on my sketch, I’ll email you photos so you can monitor the painting’s progress. Turnaround time can be as fast as two weeks.

PHOTO TIPS for Pet Portraits:
I will work with photos you already have, but you may also want to consider taking some new digital photos with the portrait specifically in mind.

Use natural late afternoon lighting when possible. Avoid shooting midday. If you need to take pictures inside, get close to a window to allow for some natural light.

TURN OFF THE FLASH and shoot the largest size possible.

Shoot close-up head shots from lots of angles at the subject’s eye level. Encourage him to also look at the camera as the eyes are the most important part of the portrait.

Try a variety of poses and take your time to ensure sharpness. (I usually shoot up to a hundred photos in one session to hope for 2-5 good ones!)

CLIENT REVIEWS
Julie is a gifted artist that paints more than our babies. She captures there personality and it amazes me every time I look into the eyes of her paintings.
—Tammy Z., Covington, LA

Julie shows the true soul of her subjects in a lasting memorial to a life well lived...
—Lisa G., New Orleans, LA

Angus was the sweetest boy and Julie captured his personality perfectly—she is so talented! Best gift my hubs ever got ❤️
—Maureen F., Philadelphia, PA

Ohhhh goodness!!! It’s even better in person!! I love it so much!!!
—Ali W., Charleston, SC

Oh it’s just so beautiful, even our 12 year old son thinks it shows Boi’s soul…his own words. It will be displayed prominently in our home for everyone to admire!
—Heike M., San Diego, CA

You have created a real treasure for us. Thanks so much for bringing our beloved lab back to life!
—Sarah K., Blue Bell, PA

I commissioned this portrait as a gift for my brother and his family. I specifically wanted it as a complimentary portrait to one our mother had done, some 50 years ago, of the first Golden Retriever in our family and which hangs in my brother’s home. Chico is a gentle giant of a Golden. When I first saw this painting, I was amazed at how perfectly his personality is captured in a portrait which does not show an open gaze. Again, as I find repeatedly with much of Julie’s work, it is so much more than just a portrait, it is a piece of art even those unfamiliar with the subject can appreciate.
—Esther L., Dubai (UAE)

For years I have been wanting to get the girls’ portraits done and have never “felt” anyone’s work enough to want to get it done. That is until I saw your work. You capture the essence of people and animals in such a unique way. I am not a person to spend money on these type of things but had no problem spending on these works of art! We will cherish these forever and want to again thank you for making Daisy and Toots come alive on canvas!
—Jeanie H., Philadelphia, PA