Taking Photos of the Person/Pet

The quality of the photo is crucial in making a great portrait. Please have the photo be in clear focus. The sharper the detail, the more the portrait will take on the qualities of the individual.  Please contact me if you are unsure of the resolution quality. Close-ups work the best as I can capture more detail, but shoulder/bust photos work fine too. Most importantly, make sure the photo captures the personality of the person/pet.

Send as many photos of the individual as you like, as this gives me a better idea of their features and personality. Below I have linked some websites for photography tips and examples of good portraits:

https://digital-photography-school.com/10-ways-to-take-stunning-portraits/

https://www.masterclass.com/articles/portrait-photography-tips

Please send Photos through the commission request google form. If you wish to send your request via mail, please give me a copy of the original photo, so that the original photo stays with you.  If the person or pet has passed away and you are unsure if the photos are good enough quality, please contact me. 

Stages of the Commission

I will work with you to ensure the initial design and details I include are what you desire. All mixed media and graphite works are hand painted on quality high gsm paper. All digital paintings can be printed on Matte or Gloss quality photo paper. I am currently working on creating a page on my website with examples of the stages of my portraits. Please contact me via email whenever you have questions. Together we can go through your photos and determine the best composition for the portrait. 

Regarding backgrounds, It is crucial that the individual remains the main focus of the portrait. Having a simpler or monochromatic background often works well and keeps the focus strong on the individual. If you would prefer a more detailed background, these can be chosen at an additional cost (please see pricing on form).

Once decided on the reference photo, I will then create an initial sketch. Any changes, additional people/pets and scenic backgrounds can be added. At this stage, you will be able to see a rough idea of the final product. Once this sketch has been confirmed, I will begin rendering the final portrait. I will often give you updates on the stages of your portrait to ensure your satisfaction or if you desire anything minor to be changed. 

Once I have completed the portrait, I will email you a copy to ensure you are completely happy with with it, or to request any final changes.

Frames

Unfortunately I am unable to provide you with a choice the frame, as I'm not in control of the production and availablity of them for me to acquire. If you are unsure if the frame I provide, I can send a photo of the framed portrait and you can decide then. 

Packaging

All portraits that are sent through courier will be wrapped carefully to make sure it is well protected and safe during travel. If you wish to have your portrait delivered in person please contact me.

Time

It will take up to four weeks for me to finalise the portrait. This is dependent on the size and complexity of the portrait, as well as the frequency of our communication. Each portrait takes quite a few hours for me to complete. I will use a waiting list system of first come first served if I am working on several commissions. Nevertheless, if it is necessary to have the portrait for a certain date, please communicate this and I will make room for this.

Payment

As dictated in the Request form, a 20% deposit is to be paid upon approval of the initial sketch. The full balance is to be paid once the painting has been completed and approved. Payment can be made via internet banking or cash (via mail or in person). I am currently working on making an option for credit card payments via PayPal, but this is unfortunately not available at the moment.