Photos are the blueprint for a custom pet replica—but your notes are the priority list. Two pets can have similar coats and still feel completely different in real life. A few well-chosen sentences help the artist understand what makes your pet unmistakably “them.”
This guide shows what to write (and what not to overthink) when you fill out the details on the order page. If you haven’t reviewed the basics yet, start with how to order a custom pet replica.
The goal of order notes (in one line)
Your notes should answer: What must be accurate for recognition? That’s it.
5 details that matter most (and why)
1) Signature markings
Tell us the marking that would be obvious to you but easy to miss in photos: a white chin dot, eyebrow spots, a chest patch shape, a nose freckle pattern. Pair it with one “markings map” photo.
2) Ear angle and asymmetry
One ear up and one ear down is a huge identity cue. Mention it clearly and include a side view.
3) Expression
“Soft eyes,” “curious look,” “sleepy face” sounds simple, but it guides the overall feel. Attach one photo you consider your pet’s most typical expression.
4) Pose preference
If pose matters, name it directly: relaxed sit, curled sleep, neutral stand. This pose guide can help you choose: timeline and process (and see size considerations for display planning).
5) Age-related details
Gray chin, thinning fur, or a senior posture can be meaningful. Mention it so the artist doesn’t “accidentally” make the pet look younger than you remember.
What not to write (common issues)
- Vague goals only: “Make it perfect” doesn’t tell the artist what to prioritize.
- Too many competing priorities: pick 2–4 must-have details.
- Conflicting photo references: choose one main reference set and label it clearly.
A copy-paste notes template
You can paste this into your order form and fill it in:
- Most important recognition details: (e.g., white chin dot, left ear droops, gray muzzle)
- Preferred pose: (sitting / standing / curled sleeping)
- Accessories to include (optional): collar / tag / bandana (see accessories guide)
- Anything to avoid: (e.g., don’t exaggerate eye size, don’t make coat too warm/yellow)
- One sentence about personality: (gentle, serious, playful, curious)
How to match notes to photos (fast method)
- Pick your best “face” photo.
- Pick your best left + right profile.
- Pick one markings map photo.
- Write notes that point to those exact photos (“see left profile photo for ear droop”).
FAQ
Do I need to write a long story?
No. A few clear lines are better than a long paragraph. If you want to share a story, keep it short and focus on a specific habit.
Can I ask for a calmer memorial look?
Yes. You can request a calmer pose and gentle expression. If you’re deciding on timing, this post may help: memorial gift guidance.
What if I’m unsure which details matter most?
Start with markings, ears, and expression. Those three often drive recognition.
Examples: “clear” vs “confusing” notes
A clear example
- Must-have: right ear tips forward; small white spot on lower lip.
- Expression: calm eyes; mouth closed (no panting).
- Pose: relaxed sit with tail tucked to the left.
- Avoid: don’t warm up the coat color; keep it cool-neutral.
A confusing example (what to improve)
- “Make them perfect and cute.”
That sentence is heartfelt—but it doesn’t tell the artist what “recognition” depends on. Replace it with 2–4 specific cues (ears, markings, posture, expression).
Two small details people forget (but artists love)
- Eye notes: “golden-brown with a darker rim,” “one eye has a tiny chip,” “slightly droopy lower lid.”
- Tail rest angle: “curves right,” “rests flat,” “naturally up.” These cues help the silhouette feel right.
If you’re including accessories, be specific
Accessories can be a huge recognition cue—especially a collar that was “always on” in daily life. In your notes, include:
- Material + color: leather vs nylon, solid vs patterned.
- Fit style: snug vs loose, where it sits on the neck.
- Tags: include or exclude, and whether a tag shape matters.
If you plan to include accessories, use the dedicated guide: include collar/harness/toy in your replica.
Final self-check (30 seconds)
- Do my notes match specific photos (“see left profile photo”)?
- Did I pick 2–4 must-have details (not 12)?
- Did I mention one “avoid” item if relevant (color warmth, mouth open, etc.)?
- Did I include at least one full-body photo for proportions?
Quick color and texture notes (especially helpful for tricky coats)
If your photos were taken under warm indoor light, add one line about “true color” in daylight. Examples:
- “Coat is cool gray, not warm brown.”
- “White patch is cream-tinted, not bright white.”
- “Fur is short and sleek (not fluffy).”
These small clarifications help prevent the most common mismatch: a replica that’s accurate in shape but slightly “off” in tone.
Optional: include simple size context
If you know approximate height/weight (or have a photo next to a common object like a chair leg), include that. Size context helps the artist keep proportions believable—especially when phone lenses distort close-ups.
Tip: If you’re stuck, write one sentence that starts with “If you could only get one thing right, it would be…”. That sentence usually reveals the real recognition cue (ears, mouth shape, a specific marking, or a posture). Put that sentence at the top of your notes so it’s impossible to miss—and so we can ask the right follow-up questions if any angle is unclear.
If you need a gentle support resource
If you’re writing notes while grieving, keep it simple and take breaks. This Humane World guide on coping with the death of a pet is practical and kind.
Ready to write your notes?
Copy your “must-have details” into the form, then upload photos on the order page. If you’re budgeting or coordinating as a gift, skim the payment page after submission.
For privacy and terms, see privacy policy and terms of service.
For payment and policies, review payment, shipping, and refund pages before finalizing.
Next step
Move from reading to a reviewed custom replica quote.
Use the article matrix below to finish your decision, then submit photos through the order form. Every quote is reviewed by reference quality, size, pose, detail level, and shipping needs.