The Commission Process.
The first thing most clients want to know is what the commission process involves. This page outlines the steps that I follow with my clients, covering questions like how long it takes and what can be expected at each step. For a list of the costs, please visit the costs page. And for any questions that are not answered here, please feel free to contact me.
1. Finding the best photos
Time: 2 - 3 weeks
Cost: None
The first step when commissioning a portrait is to select a few photos you like best. I then work with the client to narrow down the selection and identify the one or two photos that would translate best into a portrait. The client then selects the winning photo. For more information on what makes a good portrait photo, please visit the best photos for a portrait page.
For some of my clients, they feel that they don't have a photo that they like sufficiently to form the basis of a portrait. For these clients, I conduct a photo shoot of the pet at the client's house. From the series of images, we then go through the process of selecting the best photo from the shoot.
2. finalising the painting information
Time: 2-5 days
Cost: None
The next step is to define the parameters of the painting like: what size should the painting be, on what material (canvass or board) should it be painted and any other requirements, like colour changes, will you need it shipped, etc.
In one commission, a client had a photo that she loved and wanted to use for the portrait, but knew the red of the blanket would clash with the colours of the room where the painting was to hang. So she requested a change to the colour of the blanket to a specific moss green colour. The Pantone colour was identified and sent through at the start of the painting.
3. Deposit
Time: 1 week
Cost: £500
With the photo selected and the painting properties agreed, I send secure payment options to the client and ask for a deposit of £500. Once the payment is received, the client is added to the commissions list and an estimated start date and finish date are provided. As the client moves up the list, I keep in close contact with them so they have visibility into how things are progressing. This deposit holds the client's position on the list and is refundable up to the final confirmation to begin the portrait.
4. Painting the Portrait
Time: 1 - 3 months, depending on the size and complexity of the painting
Cost: £Remaining balance
Once the client has reached the top of the commissions list, I notify the client and ask for a final confirmation to start the painting. When the confirmation email has been received, the remaining balance is requested and the painting begins.
Throughout the painting process, I will provide regular updates every two weeks on progress or send emails with any questions that my arise.
5. Scanning the portrait
When the portrait is completed, I will make a scan or digital photo and send it to the client. This provides an opportunity for the client to review and make any last minor alterations to the painting.
The final portrait will be scanned or photographed and then sent to the client for a final review and adjustment before shipping.
6. shipping the portrait
When the painting is ready, I work with a courier service to package and ship the painting. This is a specific service for paintings and is designed to meet the international requirements for all UK, US, EU and Asian countries.