"Natalie" - Private Collection
Oil on Canvas
Portrait Painting Process: We begin the process with a client/artist interview. This is followed by a photo session. The outcome of the photo session is intended as the primary visual resource for the final finished painting. Before or after the photo session, I like to work up a preliminary color sketch during a short sitting to help establish the subjects skin and general environment color/tonality. The painting starts with the client's approval of the photography and 1/3rd payment of the agreed total price in order to secure the commission.
Portrait Painting Pricing: A single portrait (head and shoulders to 3/4 body) with a simple background:
I should add, although it might seem obvious, that the more articles, involved background settings, people or pets added to the painting increases the degree of complication and so the price. Fees do not include framing, applicable sales taxes, long distance travel, lodging or shipping costs.
Also, please note that the completion time of a new commission, depending on the schedule of current portrait comissions, takes a minimum of six weeks.