Step 1 - The Quote

Upon an initial conversation about commissioning the portrait a written quote will be provided.  Many variables impact the cost of a portrait painting including size, number of subjects, media, fully body, half body, head & shoulders framing, crating (if necessary to send via freight), or FedEx delivery.    As a general guideline I have provided a Pricing Estimate Guide at the end of this section.

Step 2 - The Consultation

A general discussion about the painting and the subject before work begins is the second step.  The consultation is an opportunity for me to get to know the sitter, their character and personality.  It is a time to discuss what the painting should convey, confidence, playfulness, elegance or a host of many other possibilities.  It is important to know what the painting is about.  At this time we discuss details including style, clothing, dimension and gesture.

Step 3 - The Photo Shoot

For portrait paintings I work from photographs.  As most portraits require several weeks to complete a live sitting is not practical.  For this reason the photo session is a significant step in a successful portrait painting.  The photo shoot allows for specific lighting complementary to the subject and best for an oil painting.  The masters exercised lighting control of their subjects and I have learned that lighting is key.  Ironically, often the lighting that works best for a traditional studio portrait does not work well for a painting reference.   

            Also many of my paintings are large and therefore require a photographic reference with high resolution.

The photo session takes place at my studio in Atlanta.  If required I can travel with studio equipment and do the session on location.  A dark room with high ceilings and 20’ X 20’ of workable space is required.

 Typically I do not work from existing photographs, although on rare exception I have.  Where the subject is unavailable a photograph with proper lighting, resolution and gesture might be possible.

Step 4 - The Shot Selection

After culling through all the photos I will choose 3-5 that I think work best.  Crop each to the aspect ratio that reflects the dimensions of the painting as well as experiment with composition.  Once there are several viable options, I discuss with client to choose the best option.  Often the photo session reveals unexpected opportunities.  A different aspect ratio may work better with a selected pose, or a facial expression may be different but better than what was planned.  I always want to remain open to unexpected opportunities.

Step 5 - The Painting

I begin with several drawings, a tonal study and a tight technical sketch.  This is transferred to the canvas and enlarged if necessary  and an under-painting is done.  An under-painting is merely a tonal study laying in values in monotone wash over the canvas.  Once the under-painting is dry, color is added and adjustments are made throughout the process ensuring the likeness is captured and the attitude conveyed.  This is the longest step usually requiring several weeks. 

Step 6 - The Reveal

Once I am satisfied with the painting I invite the client to view the work.  This is also a time when the client may suggest changes to capture a more accurate likeness.  Even though I hold closely to the photo reference, no one knows how their loved one's appearance more than the client.  My aim is for everyone to be satisfied with the work, and often there may be a subtle detail that needs to be brought out, or pushed back.  If possible I will make adjustments while the client waits, sometimes if the change is more extensive I do the work at a later date and delivery of the work will be done at that time.

Pricing Estimate Guide

Below is a guide to estimate the impact of various painting sizes with respect to number of figures.  The guide reflects oil on canvas with a simple colored background.  All paintings include consultation, photo session, and the unframed finished artwork. Custom framing is available but not included in this guide.  The guide is a tool, for a rough estimate.  Please request a quote for specific pricing.

Longest Dim.   1 Figure     2 Figures    3 Figures

    30”           3,500               4,700               5,900

    48”           5,600               7,100               8,600

      60”           7,700               9,500              11,300

       72”           9,800               11,800            13,800

Financial Arragements

Once the quote is accepted, half of the amount is required before work begins.  The remaining half is required upon delivery of the painting.