Commission Process
Commissioning a hand-drawn portrait should be an enjoyable and straightforward experience. From your first enquiry through to the finished artwork, I’ll guide you through each step to ensure your portrait is created with care, attention to detail and a personal touch.
Your Portrait Journey
Every portrait begins with a story. The four steps below show how your commission comes to life, from selecting the perfect reference photograph to receiving a hand-drawn portrait you’ll treasure for years to come.
01. Choose Your Photograph.
Every great portrait begins with a great reference photograph. If you already have a favourite image, I’ll help you decide whether it has the quality needed to create a detailed drawing. If not, we can discuss alternative photographs or, for local clients, the option of ‘The Signature Portrait Experience‘ — a bespoke portrait photography session designed specifically to create the perfect reference for your artwork.
Learn More about ‘The Signature Portrait Experience‘.
02. Planning Your Portrait.
Once we’ve chosen the reference photograph, we’ll discuss the details of your portrait, including the size, composition and any personal touches you’d like to include. I’ll answer any questions you have before work begins, so you know exactly what to expect throughout the commission.
03. Hand Drawn With Care.
Every portrait is drawn entirely by hand using professional-quality charcoal and archival materials. I work patiently and methodically, focusing on capturing not only a true likeness but also the personality, expression and character that make every portrait unique. During this time if you would like to see a progress image you are very welcome to contact me and I will be more than happy to oblige.
04. Approval & Delivery.
Once your portrait is complete, I’ll share photographs of the finished artwork for your approval before it is carefully packaged and delivered. Every portrait is handled with the same care at the final stage as it is throughout the drawing process, ensuring it arrives with you, ready to be enjoyed for years to come.
The Signature Portrait Experience
While many clients already have a photograph they’d like me to work from, some portraits deserve something even more personal. The Signature Portrait Experience combines my skills as both a portrait photographer and portrait artist, allowing me to create the perfect reference photograph before a single line is drawn.
By photographing the subject myself, I can carefully control the lighting, composition and expression, creating an image designed specifically for exceptional portrait artwork. The result is a truly bespoke experience and the strongest possible foundation for your finished drawing.
- Professional portrait photography session
- Expert guidance on posing and expression
- Reference photographs created specifically for artwork
- A truly bespoke portrait experience
Ready to Begin?
Whether you already have the perfect photograph or would like to take advantage of The Signature Portrait Experience, I’d be delighted to discuss your ideas and answer any questions you may have. Every commission begins with a conversation, with no obligation and no pressure.