How To Commision A Custom Portrait 

I look forward to working with you to create a fine art portrait that will be treasured for years to come!

The process is simple. Once started, normal completion time is 4 to 10 weeks, depending on medium, number of subjects, complexity, etc. However, at times there is a waiting list. To reserve your place in line and hold the price for six months, a small deposit is suggested. Whenever possible, I will make every effort to accommodate special gift dates.

#1. Call to arrange for a personal consultation. If distance prohibits, consultation is done by phone.

#2. During the consultation and initial sitting we will discuss size, price, medium, and your wishes. We will also talk about color, pose, mood, setting, etc.

#3. A portrait can either be painted from live sittings, or from photographs taken by me. I prefer to work from my own photographs whenever possible, so that I can control the lighting and detail information. We arrange a convenient time to take photographs. Photo session may take place in your home, at my studio, or an outdoors setting. I usually take 50 - 100 reference photos. Deposit is collected. Alternately, if working from life, several convenient posing times will be scheduled.

#4. I work with you to select best reference photos.

#5. You then will review a sketch. Changes in composition, if any, are made at this time.

#6. After the portrait is created, you will review the final work by coming to my studio to see the original if possible. If that is not possible, a digital photo or photo print of the original will be sent to you to proof. You will then suggest final adjustments, and approve.

#7. Portrait is delivered, and full payment is due.

Posthumous Portraits: If the subject is no longer living, I am often able to create a memorial portrait from your photographs. I ask to see as many clear photos as possible. However, if only one photograph is available, it is often possible to successfully complete the portrait.

Satisfaction Guarantee: Great effort is made to communicate throughout the process so that satisfaction is guaranteed.

Payment Procedure: A non-refundable deposit of one third is required on or before the first photo session or sitting. If portrait is complex, a second payment may be required when sketch is approved. Final payment is due upon delivery of portrait.

Pricing: - Prices begin at $500 and vary based on size, medium, and composition. When determining the price of a portrait, several factors are considered including, pose, medium, size, complexity, number of subjects, etc. For example, a head and shoulder portrait will cost less than a full length portrait. Special objects as well as a more detailed background will raise the price of the portrait. Each additional subject in the same painting is approximately 70% of the fee for a single subject.

Additional Costs: Travel, mileage, shipping, and other associated expenses are additional. These are itemized and billed separately from the portrait.

Contact: Please contact Dale directly if you have any questions, or to commission a portrait. Major credit card payments accepted through PayPal. Phone at 603 882-3227, or click here to CONTACT DALE.