The Commission process

INITIAL enquiry

You can get in touch with me via my website, email, or direct message on my Facebook page. I’m more than happy to answer any initial questions you might have, offer guidance and provide a quote with absolutely no obligation.

Turnaround is usually within 4 weeks or less, but I would always advise booking as far in advance as you can to avoid disappointment.

Photographs

Before the booking is confirmed, I will ask you to send a photograph of the subject. If you have more than one, that’s great as it will help me to get a really good understanding of their features and character. Please bear in mind that I may turn down a commission if the photograph is not clear enough to work from.

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING

Once we have agreed on the reference photograph and completion date, I will request a £20 deposit to confirm the booking.

Completion of artwork

As the artwork is nearing completion, I will send a photograph for you to review. At this stage, I can make any final tweaks or changes that you feel necessary. Once you have approved the finished piece I will ask that you transfer the remaining balance. As soon as this is received I will arrange delivery.

UK destinations are delivered using Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery, or if you are in the Lichfield area I will deliver personally. Prices quoted are for UK delivery and additional postal charges will apply if you require shipping overseas.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What materials do you use?

I create artworks using professional-quality acrylic paint.

What type of photograph do you need?

One or more good-quality reference photographs are vital to a successful portrait. Obviously, if this is a memorial portrait or a gift, you may be limited in what photographs you have available; in which case, please send me what you have and I will see what is possible.

• Send as many photographs as you can. I will pick one main image to work from but it’s always helpful to have more in order to get a sense of character, fill in any gaps and check the colours are spot on
• Look for photographs of the head and shoulders rather than the full figure; these will contain greater detail of the facial features
• Try to make sure that the photographs you send are a good representation of the character of the subject
• Natural light is best where possible, ideally outside or near a window (as long as there’s no glare)
• Please avoid sunglasses, hats or any clothing that obstructs the face or neck
• When photographing dogs, try to take the photograph at their eye level with the dog in a sitting position. You might want to use a toy or food to attract their attention.

Do you frame the portraits?

Portraits on paper are delivered unframed.

Will you sign the portrait?

I will sign and date your portrait at the bottom right on the front or on the reverse of the artwork depending on your preference.

How long will it take?

I generally aim to complete a portrait within 4 weeks or less, but I advise booking as far in advance as you can to avoid disappointment. If you would like an artwork completed at short notice, please do still get in touch, as this is sometimes possible.

Can you make a composite portrait of people or animals from different photos?

Yes, this is possible, but it’s tricky and only works well if the two images have been taken around the same time in the same lighting conditions. The alternative is to choose two separate smaller artworks that will be hung side by side. If you are unsure please send me a copy of your images and I can advise.