[2] Despite this instruction, Dixon did not spend much time studying art, copying pictures, or pursuing further education.

[2] In 1859, Dixon received her first Royal commission from Queen Victoria, to paint a miniature of Princess Blanche d'Orléans (1857-1932) at Claremont.

The royal favour she received from Queen Victoria allowed Dixon to earn further commissions from nobility.

[2] Her works are noted for having characteristics of using warm flesh tones (especially in the forehead) and yellow in the sky.

[7] Her skill at capturing likenesses meant that she had a successful career during a time when many portraitists were facing competition from the advent of photography.