General Information


PRICING FOR COMMISSIONED WATERCOLOR PORTRAITS


Prices vary and are based on size, subject, background details, and other factors. When you call or e-mail, I will discuss with you the complete process and be able to quote you a detailed price based on your individual needs and expectations.

PRICING FOR ORIGINAL ART


The paintings shown in the galleries are not commissioned paintings and can be purchased. Simply send me an e-mail with the title of the painting you are interested in and I will let you know availability and cost. Most paintings are framed and can be purchased with or without the existing frame.

Cost estimates do not include framing. See FRAMING below.

FRAMING


Framing is not included in the cost of a commissioned painting. I would be happy to have your painting framed for you. Framing costs vary greatly depending on the frame selected and the size of the painting. When framing a watercolor work, I always select acid-free mats and conservation glass. (Conservation glass has a UV-protective coating that protects the painting from fading.) Your artwork will be a piece of family history.

COMMISSION PROCEDURE


Many people are unfamiliar with how to commission a painting, and therefore anxious about the procedure, costs and end results. Most are surprised at how enjoyable and easy it actually is to commission a painting. Because a good painting takes time to plan and create, you should expect it to take about a month or more for completion. Below is an outline of the commissioning process.

Step 1: Planning
The planning stage is one of the most important because it is here that we gather information, get to know each other and discuss your expectations. Together we will develop a direction for the painting, a time table and costs. There should be no surprises when you receive your finished painting.

Step 2: Photography
It is important that you provide me with a good-quality photograph of the subject for the painting - that can't be stressed enough. If the image is blurry or small, the painting will not be successful. Please review and follow the "Photography Tips" section below or contact a professional photographer to assist you in these regards.

Step 3: The Drawing and Painting
The final step is the sketching and painting process. I will send you a preliminary rough draft for approval before I begin the painting. The painting can take anywhere from a week to a month to complete depending on its size and complexity. Upon completion, you can decide on framing and matting options.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS


A good photograph is very important to the success of your painting. If you are photographing the subject yourself, these tips may be helpful:
  • Ditch the flash! A flash can flatten features and eliminate necessary shadows. Instead, use natural light and take photos near a bright window, on a covered porch or under a tree. An overcast day also works well.
  • Take lots of photos. It's better to have too many good photos than to have to reshoot from scratch. Take close-up and full-body photos of the same pose to make sure you have enough detail.
  • Casual, candid photos make more interesting portraits than posed shots with big smiles. Big smiles make the eyes squint.
  • For pets, try to get down to their eye level. By getting down to their level, you capture more details in the eyes and face.
  • Don't skimp! If using a digital camera, it's best to use a 4 mega-pixel camera or higher for better resolution.