Portrait Commissions
Pet Portaits | Cats, Dogs, & Exotic Animals
Our lives are often measured by the companions who quietly share them. Whether you’re celebrating a new chapter, honoring years spent together, or remembering a beloved friend, a custom pet portrait becomes a lasting reminder of the relationship you shared. Portraits may be commissioned for cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, horses, and other cherished companions.
From $125.00
Individualized Solo Portraits
Some portraits mark a milestone. Others simply recognize who you are in this moment. Whether celebrating a personal achievement, commemorating an important season of life, or creating something meaningful for yourself or someone you love, each portrait is created to preserve more than appearance. It preserves a moment worth remembering.
From $125.00
Friendship & Couples Portraits
Relationships deserve to be remembered with the same care they’re built. Whether celebrating an engagement, anniversary, wedding, lifelong friendship, or chosen family, each portrait is created to reflect the connection that exists between two people.
From $275.00
Collection Portrait Series
Rather than placing everyone on a single canvas, each person or companion receives an individual portrait created as part of a cohesive collection.
From $250.00
Not Sure Which Portrait Is Right?
Every commission begins with a conversation.
If you’re unsure which portrait type best fits your story, I’d be happy to help. Whether you’re celebrating a relationship, honoring a loved one, or simply preserving a meaningful moment, we’ll determine the approach that feels most appropriate together.
Why LRT Studio
Every portrait that leaves my studio represents a relationship someone has chosen to preserve.
Over the past decade, my work has been shaped by years of artistic practice, research, exhibitions, and, most importantly, the people who have trusted me with their stories.
Each commission is created by hand with careful observation, thoughtful communication, and archival materials intended to last for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Portrait Commission Services | FAQs
What types of portraits commissions do you offer?
LRT Studio creates custom portraits of individuals, couples, pets, and memorials. Each commission is thoughtfully designed around the story, relationship, or memory being preserved, resulting in artwork that feels personal, meaningful, and lasting.
What makes a commissioned portrait different from a photograph?
A photograph captures a moment. A portrait interprets it.
While photographs document appearance, a commissioned portrait is created with intention, observation, and artistic decision-making. The goal is not simply to recreate a photograph, but to preserve the presence, personality, and emotional significance of the subject through handcrafted artwork.
Do you create family portraits?
While larger family compositions may be considered on a case-by-case basis, LRT Studio primarily specializes in individual, couple, pet, and memorial portraits.
Do you create memorial portraits?
Yes. Memorial portraits are created with care and sensitivity to honor the memory of loved ones and cherished companions. Many clients commission memorial portraits as a way to celebrate a life, preserve a connection, or create a meaningful keepsake for future generations.
Can I commission a portrait if I live outside Louisiana?
Absolutely. LRT Studio works with clients throughout the United States and internationally. The commission process can be completed entirely online, and finished artwork is carefully packaged and shipped directly to your home.
Free domestic shipping is included for clients within the United States.
Are portraits created from life or a photograph?
Most commissions are created using client-provided photographs a reference material.
Will my portrait look exactly like the photograph?
Not Exactly. LRT Studio creates interpreted portraits rather than direct reproductions. While achieving a strong likeness is important, equal attention is given to atmosphere, gesture, personality, and emotional presence. The goal is to create artwork that feels authentic to the subject while embracing the qualities that make a handmade portrait unique.
What does your portrait painting style look like?
My work balances observation and interpretation. Portraits are painterly, layered, and sensitive to light, color, and atmosphere. Rather than pursuing hyperrealism, I focus on creating artwork that feels both recognizable and emotionally resonant. Each portrait is shaped by the subject, the story being preserved, and the unique qualities of the reference material.
What If I want changes or I am unsure about something?
Communication is encouraged throughout the commission experience. There are natural review points built into the process where feedback can be discussed and adjustments can be made when appropriate. My goal is for clients to feel informed, comfortable, and confident throughout the creation of their portrait.
How Does payment work?
Once a commission is accepted, a service agreement is provided outlining the project scope, timeline, and terms. A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your commission and secure your place in the studio schedule. The remaining balance is due upon completion prior to delivery.
Payment options include:
- Venmo
- Credit or debit card
- Bank transfer via Wave Accounting
- Cash for local clients
Do You Accept Rush Commissions?
Yes, when studio availability allows.
Rush commissions receive priority scheduling and begin as soon as project details and deposits have been finalized. Rush fees vary based on portrait size and timeline requirements. Specific pricing will be discussed during the inquiry process.
How is LRT Studio different from your other work?
LRT Studio focuses on commissioned portraiture created in collaboration with clients to celebrate people, relationships, and meaningful memories. My fine art practice explores broader themes related to psychology, identity, memory, and the human experience through exhibition-based work.
While the two practices inform one another, they serve different purposes and audiences.
What is the process from start to finish?
Every commission begins with an inquiry and consultation to discuss your vision, timeline, and reference materials. Once a commission is approved and booked, the portrait moves through planning, creation, refinement, and final delivery.
Most commissions are completed within 4 – 5 weeks once work begins.