Portrait Procedure

1. Phone Consultation

I do not work through a sales agent or portrait broker so all correspondence I have with you will be in person. Both my clients and I find this the most agreeable arrangement. I need to know exactly what you are looking for in a portrait and it is best to hear it from you and not through a third person.

With the phone consultation we will discus the sitter that is going to be painted, how you see the portrait being done, and the timeline that best suits you.

I will collect the necessary information from you such as address and e mail and send you a contract or more information and photos of my work.

2. Contract

The portrait contract is a simple one page agreement. It states the name of the sitter, who is commissioning the portrait, and the price.
There is a 25% deposit to start the process. If the portrait cannot be started for any reason the deposit will be returned.

The contract guarantees not only the likeness of the sitter but complete satisfaction with the portrait.

3. Photo Session

Most all of my commissioned portraits are done from photos. This makes having a portrait painted much more convenient than live sittings. It also enables the client to preview the composition and facial expressions that will be painted in the portrait.

A typical portrait photo session can last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. Much of that time is spent scouting the location for the best set up. With children I try not to have them in front of the camera for more than 20 minutes.

There are typically many questions about what to wear for the photos and where to have them done. I will discuss these aspects of the project with you in person or over the phone. I will also send you a F.A.Q. list.

4. Color sketch and photo approval

After the photo session I will return to my studio and review and edit the photos. I will pick what I believe are the best photos to work from and paint a small impressionistic color sketch in oil. The sketch is done to give you an idea of how the portrait will look as a painting. I may adjust colors and arrangement from the photos to make it a better portrait.

I will go through the photos taken and between us we will find the best photos for the painting. I believe that the client is always the best judge as to whether the photo is capturing a sitter’s personality. The colors in the sketch will be discussed and any adjustments to the composition or color will be done at this time.

Upon approval of the sketch and photos a second deposit of 25% will be required.


5. Completed painting

The painting will then be completed within 12 months of the sketch approval. You may call at anytime for an up date. I do not allow viewing of the painting in progress; I feel it is best to see it at completion.

A frame will be provided for the portrait if it is a standard size canvas. I will send a selection of frames for you to choose from or you may let me choose the frame for you.

I will then personally deliver the painting to you and help you hang it.

The balance of the contract is collected at this time.

6. Adjustments

I strive for perfection in each of my portraits but ultimately you the client are the final judge as to whether everything is just right with the portrait.

Most all adjustments are minor. I will do these at your home with you present. Most adjustments are very subtle and it is best that you are there to say when it is correct.

There is no time limit on adjustments. You may ask for them many years after the portrait has been delivered. I want you to be truly pleased with the painting.

Information Package and Price list

There is an information package available about commissioning a portrait. The package will include a price list and a specific portfolio of portrait images and list of references from past clients in your area. Please indicate which type of portrait you are interested in boys, girls, business and institution, private, group or head and shoulders.

Click for information package

Price Schedule Effective 06-08-2008

Price List

Prices include frame*
Pets are an additional $500