How To Commission A Portrait

One

It all begins with an idea

Get in touch if you have any questions or need a quote. If you decide you would like a portrait we will have a discussion about portrait size, prices, composition and how you want your portrait to look.

Two

Your images

Get snapping! Once you have taken a suitable clear image of the subject you want me to draw, send it to me via email. We can then have a discussion of what image will work best.

You can send multiple images to me, the more information the better.

Three

Lets get sketching

Once we had decided on an image I will begin the initial sketch. Once the sketch is completed I will send you a photograph. This is so you can see the composition to get an idea of what the final drawing will look like.

Four

Lets add detail

I will keep you updated throughout the drawing process. When I think the drawing is nearly finished I will send you a clear image. At this point you can check the likeness and tell me if you would like any adjustments.

 

What Makes A perfect Image?

image.jpg
 

Image Quality

The most important thing is that the subject of the photo is in the foreground, nice and clear. Working from a photo where the subject appears very small or is blurred is very difficult and will not result in a good drawing.

Here are some tips to help you take good photos for a portrait:

  • Natural light is best. Artificial light can often cause a grainy image, so aim for daylight to take your snaps

  • Taking photos out of doors is ideal, but preferably avoid very bright sunlight which will make people squint and produce strong shadows

  • Don’t worry about the background, as I will just ignore this (unless you want it to be included)

  • For a pet photo, remember to remove the collar if you don’t want it to be included in the portrait

Photographs downloaded from social media are NOT suitable either as they have been resized and compressed.

The better the image, the better your drawing

Other Options

  • School photos are a great option because they are large, close-up and sharp. You can usually request an original digital file from the photographer.

  • Professionally taken photos are also ideal. Sometimes people get some taken specifically for the portrait.

Drawing Size & Pricing

A4
(20x30cm / 8x12")
or 25cm / 10" Square

£100

A3
(30x40cm / 12x17")
or 35cm / 14" Square

£160

Other sizes available upon request

Delivery

UK Orders: Packing and delivery usually costs £10 – as standard, your portrait is wrapped and sent via recorded 24hr insured delivery. This may vary depending on the item’s size, where it’s going, and how it needs to be packed. I will always give you an up-front quote so there are no nasty surprises. If you’re reasonably local to South Yorkshire, you’re welcome to pop in and collect it at no charge – it would be lovely to meet you!

International Orders: I’m happy to post portraits overseas. As a guide, it costs around £20 to Europe and £25 to USA and Australia. I will always confirm delivery charges before accepting a commission. Again, your portrait is wrapped and sent via a tracked, insured service.

Pencil portraits are unframed unless agreed otherwise.

Payment

For commissions, I charge a 50% deposit on acceptance, with the balance payable on completion prior to dispatch – I will send you a photo of the drawing to ensure you are totally happy with what I have created before accepting final payment.
Payment is via bank transfer, PayPal, cheque, or cash (if collecting).

Contact Me

If you would like a quote, have a question or require more information please send me a message