Initial Steps
Comissioning a portrait is not as difficult as it might seem and is a wonderful way to capture a memory forever - whether for yourself or as a gift for family members. All I need is good photo reference. You don't have to have a studio photograph. A clear snap shot will frequently do. Nor does it have to be a perfect family picture. I can often combine individual photos into one piece of artwork. If you are not sure which photos will work, simply gather
the photos you like and send to me and I can help you with that. If you are using a photo taken by a professional photographer it is best to ask for their permission first. Most photographers do not feel that an illustration from their photographic reference is an infringement of their copyright but it is a a professional courtesy to ask anyway..
If you are in the Seattle area I may be able to take some pictures of your subjects for you.
Photos must be at least 4x6 although an 8x10 is much preferable - the clearer the details the closer the likeness can be. You can send me the hard copy or scan it and send a jpeg via e-mail. Please inform me of the correct colour of eyes and hair and any other relevant details which are important and not necessarily obvious from the photograph. Pricing is based on size of piece, number of subjects, complexity of pose and/or
background elements. All repeat clients receive an automatic 10% discount
on subsequent orders Click here for Pricing Guidelines

Agreement & Timeframe
Once you have decided to go ahead with your portrait and we have finalized all the details of colour, subject matter, size ,etc I will e-mail you a contract and invoice and ask you to agree to the terms by signing and returning to me. At this time, I will need a deposit of 50% of the total before beginning work on your piece. Generally it takes 6 - 8 weeks to complete - depending on my workload. If there is a waiting list your deposit will hold your place in line and guarantee the agreed upon price.

Approval & Payment
If I am compositing from several photos, I will send you a rough outline for your approval before starting the detail work. When the work is nearing completion I will scan it and send you a copywritten jpeg for your final approval. Iif you are happy with it I will ask you to pay the remaining balance of 50% before shipping the artwork to you.

Shipping
All artwork will be shipped unmatted and unframed, either securely rolled or in a flat pack, whichever is the most suitable, and every precaution will be taken to ensure that the work will reach you safely. Shipping costs will be extra, and I only use reputable companies like Fedex or UPS..