A Guide To Custom Royal Pet Portraits

The royal pet portraits that once graced the walls of castles and palaces are experiencing a resurgence. On the surface, these historically inspired artworks transform our beloved pets into regal figures, but they’re rooted in a rich past of celebrating the unique bond we share with our furry companions. 

Read on to discover how to create your own royal pet portrait and capture your pet's place in history.

What is a Royal Pet Portrait?

Royal pet portraits are customized portraits of your pet. The process for creating one is the same as any other custom pet portrait: you choose the template, upload a photo of your pet, and let the artists go to work transferring that photo onto the template with absolute precision. Of course, you also have a variety of sizing, framing, and printing options to ensure a perfect match for your home decor.   

What makes royal pet portraits different is their regal twist. Our Royal Pet Portrait Collection includes 25+ templates inspired by the attire and aura of historical royal figures, including kings and queens, dukes and duchesses, high ranking military officials and all classes of nobles. They span across classical antiquity, medieval, Elizabethan and renaissance time periods. Everything from the costumes and color palettes to the jewels and adornments are historically accurate, adding a layer of richness and authenticity that brings the portrait to life.

The Allure of Royal Pet Portraits

Despite their growing popularity in the digital era, royal pet portraits are not a new concept. While evidence of pets in art exists from ancient times, it was during the medieval period that the history of pet portraits amongst royalty and nobility emerged. 

During this period, individualized depictions of animals alongside their owners was a way to symbolize wealth, power, and status. For example, rare or exotic breeds were highly prized, and their inclusion in portraits showcased the owner's affluence.  Animals could also represent certain virtues or qualities. Dogs, for example, often symbolized loyalty, while cats represented grace. 

The pet portrait trend continued into the Renaissance, Elizabethan, and Victorian eras, but it was in the latter period that emphasis shifted toward affection, and the idea that pets were companions with personalities grew in kind. 

Queen Victoria is largely credited with commencing the golden age of pet portraits, wherein these ideas were prominent. A famous animal lover who commissioned numerous portraits of her dogs, the Queen even had her King Charles Spaniel painted by renowned animalier Sir Edwin Landseer. Like what we see today, pet paintings from this time depicted animals in grand settings, emphasizing their importance within the family hierarchy. 

Although the mediums and styles may have evolved, the underlying motivations of commissioning a pet portrait remain largely the same. Whether in traditional oil paints or digitally rendered, pet portraits continue to celebrate the unique bond between humans and their beloved animal companions. They not only serve as cherished keepsakes that immortalize their place in our lives, but they also echo the traditions of royal and noble pet portraiture from centuries past.

How to Choose the Right Royal Figure 

Not sure what portrait is best suited to your furry friend? Here are four steps to help you select the right template for your custom royal pet portrait:

1. Consider Your Pet's Personality

Think about the qualities that make your pet unique and choose a template that reflects those traits. For example, a stately and dignified Persian cat might suit a queen's attire, while a playful and mischievous terrier might be accurately portrayed as a young gentleman. 

2. Reflect on Your Pet's Role

Imagine your pet ruling their own kingdom or playing a significant role in court. Perhaps your dog, always protecting the house, would be a valiant general. Or maybe your cat, with their aloof and dignified air, would make a perfect royal princess. This imaginative exercise can help you narrow down your choices.

3. Match the Era to Your Home Decor

The historical period of your chosen template can complement or contrast with your existing decor. For example, a Renaissance-era portrait might look stunning in a room with rich colors and antique furniture, while a Victorian-era portrait might suit a more elegant and classic interior. Consider where you plan to display the portrait and select a style that will enhance the space.

4. Don't Forget the Details

Once you've narrowed down your options, pay attention to the finer details of the templates. Consider the color palettes, the embellishments, and the overall style. Do the colors complement your pet? Does the level of detail match your personal taste? Think about the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve and choose a template that feels right.

Getting the Perfect Picture

For a pet portrait that truly reflects your companion’s personality, getting the perfect picture is key. A high-quality photo also provides the artist with the necessary detail to create a stunning and personalized portrait that you’ll love from the start.

Here are five steps to help you capture the ideal image:

1. Capture Your Pet's Unique Personality

The best pet portraits reflect the animal's individual character. Remember, the goal is to capture a glimpse of their personality. Think about what makes your pet special and choose a photo that showcases these traits. For example, a head-tilted pose might show curiosity, while a direct gaze could convey confidence. 

2. Perfect Orientation is Key

Once you've decided on your royal template, consider the pose and direction of your pet in the photo. If the template features a king facing forward, a photo of your pet looking straight at the camera will be ideal. If the template shows a duchess in profile, a photo of your pet from the side will be a better fit. Avoid photos where your pet is looking in a completely different direction than the template, as this can make the final portrait look awkward or unnatural.

3. Lighting Matters

Natural light is often the best choice for a quality photo. Try taking photos near a window or outdoors on a bright but overcast day. Avoid harsh shadows or direct flash, as these can distort your pet's features. Soft, even lighting will highlight their fur and create a more flattering image.

4. Close-Up for Detail

A close-up or medium shot is ideal for a pet portrait. Get close enough to capture the details of your pet's face, including their eyes, nose, and fur. Avoid photos that are taken from too far away, as these can make it difficult to see the details and may result in a less impactful portrait.

5. Full Face is Best (Usually)

While profile shots can work for some templates, a full-face or slightly angled view is generally preferred. This allows the artist to see your pet's features clearly and create a more accurate and recognizable portrait. With that said, the most important consideration is the orientation of the chosen template. If the template is a profile, then a profile shot of your pet is necessary. 

Ordering Your Royal Pet Portrait

Adorned in regal attire and surrounded by period-accurate details, a royal pet portrait forges a connection to the long tradition of humans celebrating their animal companions. These pieces are a testament to the love and joy your pet brings to your life, a reminder of their place in your family's story, and a connection to the very same sentiments that inspired royal pet portraits centuries ago.

The key to a truly exceptional portrait lies in choosing the right artists. Look for a pet portrait provider that offers reasonable turnaround times, provides excellent customer service, and has positive reviews from other pet owners. Ultimately, you will want a company that will work with you throughout the process, ensuring that your vision for your pet's royal transformation becomes a beautiful and cherished reality.