A portrait begins with a conversation between us, discovering your wishes and the amount of resources you wish to invest in the artwork. I am comfortable painting from life, but most portraits are done from photographs for many reasons. The sittings generally take from one to three hours. In this time Ipaint color swatches to use as the color scheme of the portrait and photograph the model in various poses and outfits indoors so that I can control the shadows. Outside photographs are great for lighting and backgounds, but often the subect is seen squinting and smilling with all teeth. That may look fine in a photograph, but in a portrait, that big ol' grin squints the eyes, puffs the cheeks out, and appears stayed.
Uncle Jim
What will a portrait run me?
We have to talk about what you want before I can quote you a price. Fees vary depending on the amount of time it will take to produce the painting. Factors that affect that time are size, attention to detail, the amount of preliminary drawings, the number of photo sessions, the travel expenses, and your resources. Having painted well over 220 portraits, I have the experience to paint my portraits to match a wide range of budgets. No matter what the portrait costs its value far exceeds amount it took to produce it. After all, portraits are a priceless part of history, and are around for many generations. In four generations, if there isn't a portrait of you somewhere, nobody will remember you. Your portrait is your stamp in history, and I take that very seriously. I want you to look your best.
Mother And Child
Portrait Of A Boy
How long does it take?
The time it takes to paint the portrait depends on the scope of the project. I am committed to complete the work in a timely fashion. Rush jobs are accepted, but may require some additional fees. The job is not complete until both parties are well satisfied with the results.
You do not have to stay still
I can't stand sitting still...I am sure you can't either. I make a charcoal drawing from the photograph we chose to give us a good idea of what the portrait will look like. Additional drawings and photography sessions are possible for a reasonable price.
May I provide my own photographs?
You may provide your own photographs and save $250. I prefer to take my own photographs, because it gives me a chance to get to know my subject, compose the painting, and the opportunity of painting color samples from life.
May I commission just drawings?
You may commission just drawings. Prices start at $500 for an 8"x 10" face from a customer provided photograph to $2,400 for larger, more intricate drawings.
Portrait Fees
I have a price range for every budget. $5, 495.00 to $28,700.00 Contact me for a consultation and fees.
