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In October 2023, my friend Jet asked me to create four coloured pencil portraits. One portrait was intended as a gift for Jet's friend, another for her mother, and the other two were portraits of her beloved Boxer dogs. I have known Jet for over three decades, and during this time, I have had the pleasure of creating pencil portraits of her dogs on several occasions. Here are all four portraits displayed with additional information about each individual. You can access a link below each image to learn more. A Coloured Pencil Drawing of a White Boxer DogFor this particular portrait, I had to be a little creative with the dog's body. Since the reference photo had limited detail, I used a photo from a gallery I've built up over the years of the client's other white Boxer dogs. This approach allowed me to complete the piece accurately and create a final portrait that was a true representation of the subject. It's a technique I've used successfully on a number of pet portraits to ensure the finished artwork is as complete and detailed as possible.  A coloured pencil drawing of a white Boxer dog called Carrot - Framing is simulated using the ArtStage app While the concept of drawing a white dog on white paper may appear challenging, the key lies in understanding that white fur is not a singular tone, but a composition of subtle grey shades and shadows. The white paper itself serves as the highlight, providing the perfect foundation to build upon. If you'd like to learn more about the process or see more of the finished piece, just click the link below! A Coloured Pencil Drawing of a Brindle Boxer DogThe reference photo for this portrait of Watson showed him wearing a thick blue collar, but it was cropped tightly, leaving very little of his body visible. To fulfil the client's request to have the collar removed and to create a complete and accurate portrait, I needed additional reference material. I was able to use a second photo of Watson, taken from a similar pose, which provided the necessary detail to accurately capture his body's form and extend the composition beyond the original image.  A coloured pencil drawing of a brindle Boxer dog presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app While it is possible to remove a collar during the portrait creation process, it adds a layer of complexity. The best way to ensure a seamless and accurate final piece is for the client to take the reference photograph without the collar if they do not wish for it to be included in the portrait. A clear, collar-free photo allows me to focus on the fine details of the dog's fur and form, resulting in a more natural and authentic piece of art from the very beginning. A Coloured Pencil Drawing of a Fawn Boxer DogThe reference photo of Fungus provided by his owner, Jet, was ideal for this portrait. It was a large, high-resolution file with incredible detailing that remained sharp even when zoomed in. Taken outdoors in natural daylight, it had a perfect balance of light and shadow, which is always the best option for capturing a pet's true likeness. Although the photo was excellent, I needed to get creative with a few areas. Fungus was wearing a collar, so his chest wasn't fully visible. To ensure the finished portrait was as accurate as possible, I used a second image of him to fill in these missing details, as I did with the other portraits.  A coloured pencil drawing of a fawn Boxer dog in a walnut frame, presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app This video offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at three Boxer dog portraits, displayed side-by-side on the studio shelf. Without any sound or commentary, the focus is entirely on the finished artwork. The video invites you to simply observe the details of each piece, and showcasing them together highlights the unique character of each dog while also displaying the consistent style and meticulous detail applied across all three drawings. A Coloured Pencil Drawing of two Mixed Breed Rescue DogsCreating this portrait presented a unique challenge, particularly with the smaller, grey dog, Kudu. The main reference photo showed him wearing a full harness that obscured a significant portion of his body, leaving many of the details of his fur and form to be filled in. To ensure as much accuracy as possible, I had to use a variety of other photos to complete the drawing. This was made even more difficult by the fact that both dogs were mixed breeds, meaning I couldn't rely on typical breed-specific research to inform the details.  A coloured pencil drawing of two mixed breed dogs in a white frame, presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app I discussed these challenges with my friend beforehand, and she understood that the final piece may not be a perfect representation of Kudu due to the lack of clear reference material. Jet allowed me to approach the portrait with a bit more artistic freedom, and ultimately, I was able to create a piece that captures the spirit of both dogs, using the available photos to bring their personalities to life. Final ThoughtsAll the dogs in the photos wore either a collar or a harness, which were removed in the drawing as per Jet's request. Fortunately, Jet provided me with a collection of photos of each dog to make the process relatively easy. The photos were incredibly helpful as they provided me with a clear view of the intricate details that were obscured by the collars in the reference photos. However, there may be instances where the removal of collars, especially harnesses, is a difficult task, especially if they hide crucial details. In such a scenario, removing them can only be considered if additional photographs are made available.  All four coloured pencil drawings in a grey wood frames, presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app PHOTO TIPS For advice on selecting the best reference photos for your own bespoke portrait, or for tips on conducting a mini photoshoot to gather suitable images, please visit my 'Photography Tips' page. I offer simple guidance to help ensure your photos will result in a high-quality portrait that you'll cherish for years to come. If you're interested in a custom coloured pencil portrait, I'd be delighted to discuss your ideas. Whether you have a beloved pet, a cherished family member, or another subject in mind, please get in touch! You can learn more by visiting my commissions page, or feel free to email me directly at to start the conversation.
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In this article, I am pleased to share my latest commissions, completed as gifts for Christmas. Four new acrylic paintings, which include a double portrait of two mixed breed dogs, a Chow Chow dog, a boxer dog and a Cocker Spaniel. Additionally, I also had three coloured pencil commissions, featuring a Boxer dog and two individual portraits gifted by a mother to her two children of a Cocker Spaniel and a Tabby cat.
In 2017, I started receiving Christmas orders as early as September, which kept me busy throughout the entire season. Since my work is highly detailed, I can only take on a limited number of portraits in the lead-up to Christmas. Beginning in mid-October, I needed to dedicate 10 to 12 hours each day to ensure I could complete all the portraits on time. To navigate this intense workload and ensure that each portrait was completed on schedule, I had to organise a daily schedule, to manage my workload effectively.
Early December marks the final varnish before this portrait travels to the USA.
Given that some of the orders originated from overseas, it was imperative to ensure that the portraits were finished promptly, as the shipping process typically takes between 5 to 7 working days. Additionally, I needed to proactively arrange for the frames well ahead of time, particularly considering the surge in demand that framers often face during the holiday season. This careful planning would help guarantee that each piece arrive in time for Christmas.
My objective was to complete all outstanding orders one week ahead of my trip back to Chesterfield, where I could enjoy quality time with my family. Despite the challenges of this busy period, I found myself needing to work late into the night before my departure, ensuring that everything completed. Star - Acrylic Painting of a Chow Chow dogCommissioned as a Christmas gift for the client's parents, this portrait of their Chow Chow was created with careful attention to detail. Executed in acrylic on a 16" x 20" canvas, the composition features a scenic background thoughtfully selected to complement the Chow's unique colouring without detracting from the focal subject. The portrait provided an opportunity to engage with texture and tonal layering, particularly in capturing the complexity of the coat. It was a time-intensive process, but one that allowed for a more nuanced and considered result, both technically and emotionally. 
The completed acrylic portrait, shown in a simulated frame created with Artstage to visualise presentation.
This portrait was commissioned by a lady from Chesterfield, where I am originally from. As I planned to return to Chesterfield for the Christmas holiday, it was arranged for her to collect the painting at the Chesterfield train station. The portrait of Star the Chow Chow was carefully transported in my suitcase, ensuring its safety during a six-hour journey. Upon our meeting, Rachel thoughtfully presented me with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, which added a lovely touch to our exchange.
For those interested in how this portrait of Star the Chow Chow came together, you can follow the full progression on his dedicated page. It offers a closer look at the layering process, and the techniques used to bring his painting to life.
Ben - Acrylic Painting of a Cocker SpanielThis Christmas commission was arranged by an aunt as a gift for her niece. Kathleen, the client, was only able to provide a couple of printed photographs rather than high-resolution digital images. While I generally advise against working from physical prints due to the lack of fine detail, I asked her to send what she had. I scanned them carefully and, using supplementary references of Cocker Spaniels sourced online, was able to gather the key anatomical and tonal information needed to build an accurate portrait. 
Ben the Cocker Spaniel, shown in the completed acrylic portrait with the chosen teak frame, previewed in a simulated display setting.
One of the photographs captured an ideal pose, though the colour and image quality was less than perfect. Nevertheless, I worked diligently to enhance the image, keeping the client informed throughout the process via a dedicated webpage where she could monitor progress and request adjustments. We selected a vibrant landscape background that beautifully complemented the dog, and the client chose a teak-coloured frame to complete the painting, resulting in a polished and meaningful gift.
" Portrait arrived safely and I am delighted with it. The likeness is amazing and I know my niece is going to love it. Here's wishing you a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful and healthy New Year! "
If you’d like to learn more about how this portrait of Ben developed, from initial reference to final brushwork, you can view the full process here.
BuBu - A Coloured Pencil Drawing of a Boxer dogJoanne commissioned this portrait of BuBu as a Christmas gift for her husband, following the recent loss of their much-loved Boxer. The chosen 12" x 12" format allowed for greater precision and offered space to include a scenic background, a park they had often walked in together. It was important that the composition felt personal and accurate, not just visually pleasing. 
Before the drawing could begin, the first task was to build a reference image that reflected BuBu’s natural proportions. The most suitable photo had been taken indoors, with uneven lighting and an ear position that didn’t reflect his usual stance. Several adjustments were made to correct these issues, combining elements from the original photo with anatomical reference to ensure the final portrait felt true to him.
" Just wanted to let you know that I absolutely love BuBu. He has now gone for framing and I will send a picture to you when I get him back next week. Once Christmas is over and Shane has received the gift, you are more than welcome to Bu's progress and final image online. It is just amazing. "
Joanne later shared a photo of BuBu’s portrait after it had been framed. She selected an ivory mount paired with a slim white frame, choices that kept the focus on BuBu and complemented the artwork without distraction.
To see more images and read about how the portrait came together, you can visit BuBu's blog here. Tank - An Acrylic Painting of a Boxer dogDavid discovered my work through mutual friends and contacted me to create a portrait of his dog, Tank. He shared several reference photos, but one stood out as ideal. The digital format allowed me to zoom in and capture fine details with clarity, and because it was taken in natural daylight, it accurately reflected Tank’s colouring. With this image, no further references were needed to achieve the level of realism and tonal accuracy required. 
For head and shoulder portraits like Tank’s, 9" x 12" is a popular format. It provides enough space to capture fine detail while keeping the composition focused. Although I had access to multiple images, the final result depended on the strength of the chosen reference. A well-lit, high-resolution photo makes all the difference. I always recommend providing a range of images and selecting the most suitable one to ensure the best possible outcome.
" Hello Karen, I just received the painting, it is absolutely beautiful. It arrived unscathed, and thank you so much, this will be hung on my wall, with great pride. You have a god given talent, that is heartfelt. You make a lot of people happy, so we can keep our beautiful babies forever in our hearts and we can see them every day and give us a smile. Chaz & Lucy - An Acrylic Painting of two mixed breed dogsA lady contacted me about a Christmas portrait of her sister’s two dogs, Chaz and Lucy, both of whom had sadly passed away. With only a few reference photos available, it was difficult to gather enough detail to meet my usual standards. Luckily, I was able to create an ideal composition that honours their memory and offers a heartfelt tribute to these much-loved companions. 
To paint Lucy, the larger dog, I combined two photos, one for the body and one for the head. This method can work well, but it depends heavily on the clarity of the images. When references are limited or unclear, it becomes harder to ensure accuracy. Including the customer in the process helps guide decisions and improves the final result.
Taz & Benny - Two Coloured Pencil Drawings of a Tabby Cat and a Black Cocker SpanielI was recently contacted by a client named Pat, who was looking to commission two small pencil portraits as Christmas gifts for their son and daughter, one of a dog named Benny and one of a cat named Taz. The requested size was 8" x 10", though she was open to advice, especially for Taz’s portrait. Due to the composition, it was decided that a 7" x 11" would fit better. 
Pat had limited reference photos and wasn’t sure if they would be suitable. For Benny, a head and shoulders pose was preferred, showing him as he often appeared, wet from swimming, with a slight brown tinge likely caused by sunlight on his black coat. For Taz, she favoured a full-body image and included an extra photo in case it better showed his eye colour. She were open to guidance throughout to ensure the portraits captured each pet accurately.
"Just received the portraits. They are stunning and so lifelike. I've just left them to be framed and they will be ready for Christmas. Thanks again, you are so talented."
Once I completed all the Christmas commissions, I took a well-deserved break to recharge. Now, I'm back in the studio, creating new articles for my Step by Step Art website. There are numerous tasks to accomplish behind the scenes. If you're interested in booking a personalised commission or are an artist searching for helpful articles, and mini-tutorials, click on the links below to visit my website.
Here's hoping 2018 is a wonderful year for you! Karen |
AuthorKaren M Berisford Choose tags below to search the news blog directory, or quickly find each blog through the News Blog Archives page.
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Images and text within this website are Copyright of Karen M Berisford 2010 - 2025
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