Portrait Painting Process: Turning Photographs into Art
A custom portrait is more than just a painting; it’s a deeply personal piece of art that celebrates individuality, connection, and the beauty of life. My portrait painting process for creating custom portraits of human beings ensures that every detail reflects the personality and essence of the subject. Whether you provide the perfect photo or prefer a professional photoshoot, I’ll guide you through every step of the journey.
I work in oils, so you will receive an original oil painting upon completion of the portrait painting process.
The payment for the portrait will be made in two or more installments. I require either a full payment, a 50% nonrefundable deposit, or an installment payment plan in advance before I start painting.
Step 1: Consultation and Collaboration
Before the portrait painting process begins, we’ll discuss your vision for the portrait. Once we agree to work together, I will provide you with a way to easily contact me for updates.
Key details include:
- Size: What dimensions best suit your space, style and budget?
- Style: Since you hired me, I understand that you want me to use my characteristic style of painting, but I can offer some variations to suit your aesthetic or that of the recipient. (See below for ideas.)
- Colors: Let me know if there are colors or color families you would particularly like to have included in the oil painting, and if there are any colors you do not want to have emphasized in the painting. I cannot guarantee that I will include none of a particular color, but I can make sure it is not an overwhelming part of the artwork.
- Personal Touches: Any special elements you’d like included, such as a meaningful accessory, background, or theme.
This step ensures that the portrait reflects your unique vision and the subject’s individuality.
Step 2: Invoice and Payment
Once we have completed the consultation part of the portrait painting process, I will prepare an invoice of the actual cost of the painting and send it to you by email. You have three options for payment.
- Pay 100% up front
If you choose this method, but then do not want the completed painting, 50% of the payment may be refunded at the time we stop working together. The other 50% covers my time and materials used to that stage. - Pay 50% up front
- If you choose this method, I will email you an invoice.
- The 50% you pay to start the process is nonrefundable. This covers the costs for my materials and time.
- Pay using an installment plan through my website.
Step 3: Choosing the Photographs
Every great portrait starts with a great photograph. You have two options:
- Provide Your Own Photos
If you already have photographs you love, share them with me! I understand that high quality photos are not always available, but I can usually work with you to achieve a good likeness with old, damaged, or faded photos. - To the extent possible, please send 5 or more photos that include:
- Your favorite pictures of the person.
- High resolution and well-lit.
- Lit distinctly from a single angle, ideally not with the light pointing at the face. Although many photos have a flash lighting the face from the front, try to find a few that do not have this.
- Capturing the subject’s personality, whether it’s a natural smile, a contemplative look, or their signature pose or activity.
- Clear and detailed, with the subject’s face unobstructed.
- Showing the whole body, and others showing head and shoulders.
- Showing the head from different directions. Although we will choose one direction, this can help me get a likeness.
- Showing the person at the age you want to remember.
- Varied poses. Together we will select a pose that is best for the portrait, but by seeing how the person holds themselves in different positions it can help me achieve the best likeness.
- Schedule a Photoshoot with Me
If you’d like me to photograph your person, I offer local photoshoots for an additional fee. This option allows us to collaborate on the ideal setting, lighting, and expression to bring your vision to life.
Details for Photoshoots:
- Fee: $100 per hour, nonrefundable.
- Travel Costs: $0.67 per mile for travel outside my immediate area.
- Location: Must be within my local region.
Once we’ve captured the perfect shots, I’ll use the images as the foundation for your custom portrait.
Step 4: Creating the Painting
With the photograph and your preferences in hand, I’ll begin the painting process. Here’s what to expect:
- Attention to Detail: Every brushstroke is carefully crafted to capture the subject’s essence, from their expression to the light in their eyes.
- Progress Updates: I’ll keep you informed with updates, so you can see the portrait come to life and provide input if needed.
- Silence is Golden: If you don’t hear from me, things are probably going well in the studio, but I will provide you with a way to contact me during the process in case you want updates.
- Timeline: Depending on the size and complexity, the painting typically takes 2–8 weeks to complete, including drying time.
Step 4: Approval and Adjustments
When the portrait is nearly finished, I’ll share a preview for your feedback. This is your last opportunity to suggest any final adjustments to ensure the painting meets your expectations. Minor tweaks are included in the process to ensure your satisfaction.
Step 5: Delivery or Pickup
Once approved, your portrait will be carefully packaged and shipped to your address, or you may arrange to pick it up locally. I use high-quality materials to ensure your artwork lasts for generations.
Why Choose a Custom Portrait?
A custom portrait is a timeless way to celebrate the people who matter most. It’s perfect for:
- Memorializing Loved Ones: Honor someone special with a lasting tribute.
- Celebrating Milestones: Commemorate a wedding, anniversary, graduation, or other significant moment.
- Meaningful Gifts: Give a one-of-a-kind present that speaks from the heart.
Whether it’s a single subject or a group portrait, I’m here to create a work of art that tells your story.
Start Your Portrait Journey Today
Ready to transform a photograph into a timeless work of art? Whether you provide the perfect photo or prefer a personalized photoshoot, I’ll work with you every step of the way to create a portrait that captures the essence of your vision.