Reference
Finished portrait
Hand-painted pet portraits
Custom watercolor pet portraits
Turn your favorite pet photo into a watercolor painting you’ll treasure. Standard portraits are 9 × 12 in for $200. Request a commission with no obligation — pay only when you’re ready to book.
Your photo → hand-painted art
About the artist
Meet Kira Balan
Watercolor pet portrait artist
Welcome — I'm Kira Balan. I paint custom watercolor portraits from your favorite photo, turning the animals we love into one-of-a-kind pieces on paper.
I look for the soft expression, quirks, and quiet personality that make your pet uniquely yours. Every commission starts with your photos and the story behind them — a small heirloom for the wall.
Finished works
Portrait gallery
A selection of completed watercolor portraits — soft washes, expressive eyes, and the personality of each animal. Select a painting to view it larger.
Photo → painting
From reference to portrait
Real commissions side by side: the photo you send, and the watercolor that comes to life on the page.
Reference
Finished portrait
Reference
Finished portrait
Reference
Finished portrait
The process
How commissioning works
Request first. A deposit starts the portrait once you’re ready, and the balance is due before it ships.
Send your photos
Fill out the commission form with pet details and one or more reference photos. Standard size is 9 × 12 in — note custom sizes in your message.
Confirm & quote
For the standard 9 × 12 in watercolor, the price is $200. Custom sizes get a personal quote. I’ll answer any style or timeline questions.
Pay the deposit
When you’re ready to book, I email a checkout link for the deposit. Pay by card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. I start once the deposit arrives.
I paint your portrait
Your pet goes on the easel. When the portrait is finished, I send a second link for the remaining balance, then ship after that payment arrives.
Investment
Portrait pricing
Hand-painted watercolor pet portraits. One clear standard size — or ask for a custom quote if you need something different.
Watercolor
9 × 12 in
$200 USD
Standard size is 9 × 12 in for $200. Need a different size? Request a custom quote in the commission form message.
Request a commissionFraming and shipping are quoted separately when needed. Prefer Instagram? Message @valentinkansror use the form — both work. For a custom size, leave the dimensions in your commission message and I’ll send a quote. Booking starts with a deposit. The remaining balance is due when the portrait is ready to ship.
Kind words
What clients say
Notes from people who commissioned a painting — pets, portraits, and gifts that made it home.
★★★★★“Kira was a delight to work with! She communicated very well was able to execute the painting exactly as I’d hoped for. I am truly amazed at the great detail she captured for each of my dogs! It was a gift for husband and he absolutely loved it. I was amazed with the quick shipping as well! You will not be disappointed with Kira’s work! I would definitely consider using her again.”
★★★★★“I don’t have enough words to tell you how talented this artist is. The painting she did of my goldendoodle Is like viewing her in the mirror. I just love it😍”
★★★★★“Truly amazing artist, I am absolutely in love with my portrait, it turned out even better than i could’ve imagined.”
★★★★★“I'm speechless. It's stunning. It speaks to my soul. I'm in love. I'm in love. I'm in love!”
★★★★★“😃😃😃😃😃😃 Incredible. Can't wait to frame it, but I have to 😭 Will commission again!”
★★★★★“Highly recommend her! She did an amazing job!! My boyfriend loved it.”
★★★★★“Kira is so amazing. She brought to life such a touching scene between a mother and daughter 🥰”
★★★★★“Kira is the best. She nailed it with my portrait then knocked my pups portrait out of the park. Reasonably priced for such quality work and works well with adjustments. I wish I could capture everything with Kira's artistic skills.”
★★★★★“Kira is absolutely amazing to work with and her paintings are incredible! I’ll definitely purchase more from her in the future! Thank you so much, Kira!”
Start here
Request a commission
Share your pet’s photos and a few details. There’s no payment and no obligation at this step — I’ll follow up with a quote and a deposit link when you’re ready.
- Upload one or several reference photos
- Watercolor · standard 9 × 12 in for $200
- Custom sizes — leave a message for a quote
- Usually a reply within a few business days
Prefer chat? Message @valentinkansr (opens Instagram) instead.
Request received
Thank you — your photos and details are on their way. I’ll review everything and email you with next steps and a quote. A deposit link comes when you’re ready to book.
After your quote
Pay for your commission
Once we’ve agreed on the portrait (standard 9 × 12 in watercolor is $200; custom sizes are quoted personally), I’ll email a private checkout link. A deposit starts the painting. The remaining balance is due when the portrait is finished and ready to ship. Requesting a commission is free.
- Deposit — due when you book your spot. I start after it arrives.
- Remaining balance — due when the painting is ready to ship.
- Card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay — each link opens a secure checkout. Wallets appear on phones and browsers that support them.
There is no payment button on this page. I’ll send each link when that part is due.
FAQ
Common questions
Still unsure? Send a note with your commission request — happy to help before you commit.
Ask via the formHow does commissioning work?
Submit the form with your pet’s photos and details — no payment required to request. Standard portraits are watercolor, 9 × 12 in, for $200. I’ll confirm details and email a deposit link when you’re ready to book. Once the deposit is paid, your portrait goes on the schedule. The remaining balance is due when it’s ready to ship.
What sizes do you offer?
The standard size is 9 × 12 in for $200. For custom sizes, select “Custom size” on the form and leave a message with the dimensions you want — I’ll reply with a personal quote.
When is payment due?
A deposit is due when you’re ready to book your spot. The remaining balance is due when the portrait is finished and ready to ship. Each one arrives as a private checkout link for a card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. There is no obligation until you pay the deposit.
What photos work best?
Clear, well-lit photos where your pet’s eyes and face are sharp. Natural light is ideal. Feel free to send several angles and expressions — more reference usually means a better portrait. Phone photos are fine. iPhone users can send HEIC or choose “Most Compatible” in Camera settings to send JPEG.
How long does a portrait take?
Turnaround depends on current waitlist and complexity. I’ll give you a clearer estimate when we confirm your commission.
Do you paint in oil as well?
Commissions are watercolor only — soft edges, luminous color, and a classic painted feel. If you have a special request, mention it in your form message.
Can I get the painting framed?
Framing can be discussed as an add-on. If you frame elsewhere, I can still suggest styles that suit the finished piece.
What is your refund policy?
Ask about the current policy in your commission request if you need details before booking. Once a portrait is finished and shipped, sales are typically final; if something is wrong with delivery, I’ll work with you to make it right.
Do you ship internationally?
Shipping is quoted with your commission. International buyers are typically responsible for import taxes and customs in their country. Mention your location in the form so I can advise.