Portrait Procedure

A portrait is more than just a likeness (a photograph can give a likeness but is not a painting)…a portrait painting reflects a likeness that conveys a mood and personality of the subject and is executed in a painting style that is unique to the artist. Additionally the painting is a likeness of a person whose personality is filtered through the artist's mind and spirit to create a unique work of art to be treasured and passed down as an heirloom from generation to generation.

The first step in commissioning a portrait is to discuss with the client their ideas of what they are looking for in a portrait painting or drawing. Size, scope, mood and feeling, dress and composition, location in which the painting will be hung are all considered. Another important part of this meeting is to get to know the subject and their personality as these impressions play a large part in the creative process of the painting for me. If time permits I will also conduct a photo session after this meeting. I bring along my own lighting and camera equipment.

Back in my studio I review the photos to find the pose that I feel most expressively portrays the subject. For portraits with 2 or more subjects I execute two small compositional drawings which I feel would make the most interesting and expressive painting and let the client choose the composition they prefer. Once the portrait is completed it is presented to the client for review at which time they may request small adjustments if they deem them necessary.

Pastel Portrait Fee Schedule

Head & Shoulders $2350
Head & Upper Torso $2750
¾ Pose with Hands $3350
Full Figure $5000

Graphite Drawing Fee Schedule

Head & Shoulders $800
Head & Upper Torso $1000
¾ Pose with Hands $1400

Portraits are executed approximately 95% of life size, but smaller paintings are available upon request. There is a 15% discount per person for each additional figure in a painting and additional charge for backgrounds. Prices do not include framing, travel expenses, shipping, or applicable taxes.

I have spent many years learning and executing the art of expressive photo work so that I could enjoy excellent reference photos to work from and bring my own professional level photographic equipment including lighting with me to use. However, under certain conditions I will work from a client's photo, i.e. posthumous portrait, or portrait of a subject when they were a child (but are now grown).

A contract with deposit of 50% is due immediately following the photo session to commence the portrait process; the remainder is due when the painting is completed and you are satisfied with it.