A consultation is required prior to scheduling a photo session to review all the practical considerations. We will discuss:
Composition, size, formality or informality, dress, pose and expression, lighting and background for the portrait. This meeting can take place in my studio or in your home. Its usually best to meet in your home so that we can also discuss where you want to display the portrait and be sure the size, lighting and colors will be most effective. Finally, we will schedule the photo session.
Because I work from photographs, the inconvenience of multiple sittings can be avoided. I prefer to take the photographs since my needs for lighting and composition are rarely met through commercial studio photographs. However, I welcome your photos as additional sources of reference. Together we will select the best photos for the portrait.
Once those photographs are selected, we will finalize the size, composition and medium of your portrait. I will give you a written estimate at that time. Due to the custom nature of the portrait, a fifty percent deposit is required when placing the order.
Next, I will create a pencil drawing of the portrait. When that is complete, I will ask you to participate in a” proof reading review” of the drawing, so that any necessary adjustments to the likeness can be made to your satisfaction. Your perception of the resemblance is critical. Once you have approved the resemblance of the drawing, I will proceed with the pastel or oil portrait.
As the portrait approaches completion, I will again ask you to participate in a “proof reading review” of the portrait so that any necessary adjustments to the likeness can be made to your satisfaction.
Pencil Portraits begin at $700.00 for head and shoulders
Pastel Portraits begin at $1,300.00 for head and shoulders
Oil Portraits begin at $3,200.00 for head and shoulders