COMMISSIONED PORTRAIT – What to Consider When Ordering a Portrait
Commissioning a custom portrait is a deeply personal experience. Whether you are ordering a family portrait, a meaningful gift or an original artwork for your home, thoughtful planning helps create a portrait that truly reflects personality, emotion and memory.
Before ordering a portrait painting, there are a few important things worth considering.
1. The Photograph – the Foundation of a Good Portrait
Every portrait begins with a photograph. The quality of the photo determines how many details the artist can capture. Clear well-lit images that show the features and expression of the face are essential. Blurry or dark photos make it difficult to achieve an accurate likeness.
2. Composition and Angle
Think about how you would like the person to be portrayed:
Face only
Portrait to the shoulders
Portrait from the waist up
Also consider the angle:
Frontal view
Three-quarter profile
Full profile
Each option carries its own character and mood.
3. Technique and Medium
The technique and style define the overall atmosphere of the portrait. Options include:
Black & white (charcoal, pencil) for a timeless, classic feel.
Color (watercolor, pastel, acrylic, oil) for vibrancy and warmth.
The choice of medium is best matched to the intended space and purpose – oil is rich and traditional, while watercolor or pastel feel softer and more delicate.
4. Size of the Portrait
The size should suit both the number of people in the portrait and the space where it will be displayed. Large canvases are striking in living rooms or representative spaces, while smaller formats suit more intimate settings. For group portraits, a larger size allows for more precise detail.
5. Other Important Considerations
Timeframe
The creation time depends on the size, medium and number of people. Larger canvases and oil portraits may take several weeks, while smaller pencil or watercolor works can be completed faster. If the portrait is meant as a gift for a special occasion, it’s important to order in advance.
Communication with the Artist
Share your wishes openly - regarding the background, atmosphere or details that are particularly meaningful to you. Good communication ensures that the portrait will be truly personal and unique.
Purpose and Emotional Value
Think about why you want a portrait: as a family heirloom, a gift or a way to mark a special moment? The purpose often guides the choice of technique, size and style.
A Portrait That Lasts a Lifetime
A commissioned portrait is more than just a picture — it is a personal artwork that captures emotion, memory and connection. Whether created as a meaningful gift or a special piece for your home, a custom portrait becomes more valuable with time.
Explore the portrait techniques, sizes, and possibilities I offer or feel free to contact me to discuss your ideas. Together we can create a unique artwork that will hold a special place in your home.