Painting peoples pets

I love painting nature and animals but lets face it painting portraits makes the bread and butter in the house. When I get commissioned to do a pet portrait at first I check out what they are wanting. Lots of times they show me a work of art that is another artist work and say I want it like this. I always am nice about it and explain first what the one they show me is made like for example watercolor or oils then explain to them I can do that but..... My art is different then their art. I show them some of my work. I have been seeing a lot of talented artist out there today just shut down when non artist ask questions or do not quit understand how to order the work of art they want done. Do not fall into that place its a dark and lonely place that keeps you and your art unseen and unknown. If you are happy that way then proceed with what you are doing and be happy. When people engage with you about art it is becouse they do want your art. They trust you to explain your process of creating to them somehow so they can understand it. After all it is their money they are about to spend on your gift and talent to make a likeness of the pet they love so much. Try to remember they feel out of their comfort zone when it comes to knowing about art. They were not born with the same burning passion to learn everything possible about art as you were so be patient and understanding. Now about pictures make sure your pictures are something that can be well lets say seen as artist we understand the difference between the lighting a photo has and what the naked eye see's you have to have photos with good color and lighting.You can always ask to go see the pet if it is close by and do sketches and get to know said pet for yourself. Make sure your customer understands you are not a camera and that you are creating a work of art from their pets likeness. Then there is the last moment when you are finished with the portrait and the buyer has not seen your finished work yet I am still working on this one myself. Do not show your fears of being unsure. They will like it be confident in your work. I am always so nervous before they see it. Then when they do they like it and order more. This is a portrait I did recently. I love working on the 12 x 12 3D canvas and it has become popular among my portrait work lately. Its the right size for most homes and does not need framing. If you are a artist climb out of the dark place and share your work with the world and if you are looking to get a portrait done by me of your beloved pet you can find me on my site or PM me on my art page on facebook called Incessant Memories. I am sure you will love the portrait when its done.