Procedure

Painting prices for commissioned art are not determined on size alone. Complexity of work, time needed to complete also are considered. I do provide firm cost prior to accenting commissions. I work on a first come first serve basis. This is determined by the date the deposit check for the commissioned art arrives.

Consultation

The client and I discuss the portrait commission and the details involved. This may be done in person, by telephone, E-Mail .

Photographs

I would hope to have a several good photos of the subject.Take care to point out which photographs have the best likeness. The client will decide whether the portrait will be formal or informal by the clothing and pose chosen. Sometimes a child holding a favorite toy or with the family pet can also add special interest. Background may be included, but I recommend that they be kept simple. Backgrounds can also be taken from other photographs.

Take your own Photos

If you take the photos please use natural light (no flash or artificial lighting) take the photographs near a window, but do not have the subject facing the window straight on. If the photos have to be taken outside, please take them on an overcast but fairly bright day and against a plain background. In all cases fill the camera lens with the subject and where the portrait is to be full body, also take closeups of the face.

Work begans

I select some of the photographs which I feel will make the best portrait. The client and I review them and choose the best features which will be combined into a single pose in the portrait. Once the final decisions have been made , we are ready to begin the portrait. When an agreement is made and a deposit of 1/2 of the total cost is made work begans.

Delivery

When the portrait is completed, I contact the client and well send a photo of the finished painting ( e-mail or snail mail) for your approval .The clint chooses a method for delivery and pays accordenly.Paintings are sent by courier (collect for the remaining balance).

Framing

Because of the wide range of individual tastes, framing is done by the client. I am happy to offer suggestions and referrals.

Pastel is a dry medium in chalk form. The under layers are set
onto the paper with a fixative spray. The final layer is not sprayed so to retain the softness and lighter tones. Pastel requires framing with glass and is as durable as oil with the proper care. Strong light will cause fading in both.

Acrylic is done on a stretched canvas and is protected by a layer of varnish instead of glass. Oil paintings offer more detail and will have richer tones. Completion time is usually twice that of pastels.