Melanie&Nicholas

Custom Pencil Pet Portraits from Photos

Pet Portraits in Pencil by Melanie Phillips Melanie and Lily

Classic Pencil Pet Portraits by Melanie Phillips

Welcome to my Pencil Pet Portraits Gallery, where you can view a selection of my recent commissions of dogs, cats and horses, all hand-drawn in graphite pencil. Each portrait is created using your favourite photographs and carefully drawn to capture your pet’s unique personality and expression.

I work with clients across the UK and worldwide, and every portrait is delivered beautifully packaged and ready to give to the recipient if its a gift. Scroll down to read more!



Spaniel by Melanie Phillips
Classic drawings of dogs, cats, and horses. Louise and Molly

Classic Drawings

I create Classic pencil pet portraits of dogs, cats and horses. All I need are a few clear in-focus photos to work with. If you have a specific space in mind, I can work to bespoke sizes too — just let me know your measurements and I’ll be happy to provide a personalised quote.

Have a special occasion coming up? Let me know so I can save you a space in my commissions list. My pencil portraits are popular and I have a waiting list, but I always do my best to meet your deadline. Availability can vary throughout the year, so feel free to get in touch to check my current schedule.

Classic drawings of dogs, cats, and horses. Adam and Beano

Classic Drawings

Choosing the right photo is one of the most important steps when commissioning a pencil pet portrait. It can take a few chats to find the perfect image, but it’s worth it. I’ll guide you through the process to help select a photo that really captures your pet’s character.

I work from one main reference image, so it needs to be clear, well-lit and in focus. If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to offer feedback. You can send your photos to me at any time.

Have a special occasion coming up? Let me know so I can save you a space in my commissions list. My pencil portraits are popular and I have a waiting list, but I always do my best to meet your deadline.

Spaniel by Melanie Phillips

Helpful Tips for Taking Pet Photos

Photographing pets isn’t easy — I know this firsthand! Over the years, I’ve taken many photos for clients and often shoot 50+ pictures just to get a few perfect ones. Don’t worry if your first attempt doesn’t go well. Keep your phone or camera handy for a few days and snap photos when your pet is naturally resting or moving about. Capturing a variety of poses really helps when designing the perfect portrait.

Pet Portraits by Melanie Phillips

Combining Multiple Pets in One Portrait

I can combine more than one pet into the same scene, even if they’re not pictured together in your photos. I usually prefer working from individual pet photos as they provide more detail and clarity, but it’s also helpful to have a few pictures of the pets together. This allows me to gauge their size relationship and keep lighting and shadows consistent — helping to create realism and harmony in the final piece.

Pet Portraits by Melanie Phillips
Classic montage of dogs, cats, and horses. Khona with his Portrait

Montage Portraits - Something a Little Different

The Story of...! My pencil montage portraits are a special way to capture your pet's unique story in one drawing. Sometimes one image isn't enough to capture the story of your pets life. Instead of a single pose, I create a bespoke composition showing your pet in different ways. Perhaps sleeping, playing, running on the beach, or as a puppy alongside their grown-up self.

Montages are all about celebrating your pet’s personality and life, combining multiple moments or memories into one meaningful piece.

Although I can draw more than one pet in a portrait, montage drawings are usually focused on a single pet, captured in several poses special to you.

Thinking of Booking a Portrait?

I’d be delighted to see your pet photos and chat through the best layout for your sketch. Just drop me a message — I’ll walk you through the steps, simple and stress-free.

My pencil portraits make truly thoughtful gifts. Each one is hand-packed in a ribbon-tied archival box, protected with acid-free tissue paper. They’re ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or any meaningful occasion where you want to give something personal and lasting.

Pet Portraits in Pencil Gallery by Melanie Phillips Paula with Teasel / Caroline's Partner with Romy / Josie's mum and Jasper

Commission a Drawing

Why not send me photos of your dog, cat or horse, I can help you choose the perfect photo for the drawing. We can chat about your pet and your ideas for a custom piece of artwork. Really looking forward to working with you!