A GUIDE TO THE COMMISSION PROCESS
Every commission is of course unique and I approach each one on an individual basis, working with you to ensure the end result meets with your expectations. I'm very happy to answer your questions with no obligation, so please get in touch.
DELIVERY
REFERENCE PHOTOS
The general rule is 'the better the photo, the better the portrait'. At least one sharp, high resolution image is key and I like to see more if possible to gain a faithful impression of appearance and personality. Take new pictures specifically for the portrait if possible. You may already have a favourite photo of your child or pet - I'm very happy to look at any photos you have and will let you know from the outset if they can't be used. If you live locally, I may suggest taking photographs myself, even if these are only used alongside a favourite of yours. It's an added bonus (but not essential) if I can meet the child or pet as it gives me some insight into their personality.
Scroll down for tips on taking or choosing a great reference photo. If you are interested in commissioning a wildlife drawing, I can source references for these.
SIZE
Once I have your photos we can select the best image to use and the composition/size of the portrait you prefer. I typically work on paper 10"x12", 11"x14", 12"x14" but larger sizes and square sizes are also available. 10"x12" or 11"x14" are ideal for a 3/4 pose of a single child or dog, also known as a 'head and shoulders' portrait. Smaller sizes, eg 6"x6" or 8"x8" are feasible for birds or small wildlife. Prices are determined by size and the number of subjects. Please get in touch for your individual quote.
WORK BEGINS!
When the details have been finalised I'll give you an estimated completion date. Portraits are usually completed in 2 to 3 weeks and I can send you a progress image if you would like to see one. When finished, I'll send you a digital proof for your approval.
BESPOKE FRAMING
You may wish to consider my framing service which is very competitively priced in comparison to high-street framers. More information here.
For UK delivery of commissioned work, I use Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery, a tracked and signed-for service. If you need another service please ask. International orders are sent via secure service, allow 3-7 days. More on delivery here.
A good photograph is key to a successful portrait
To create a highly detailed portrait I need a sharp digital image to work from. I will enlarge and print the image and may also reference it on an ipad, zooming in to look closely at small areas, so high resolution is essential. As a general rule, if you zoom in on your photo and the details appear pixelated or blurred, it will not have the clarity needed.
The better the photo the better the portrait!
Capturing a reference photograph
NATURAL LIGHT
Photos taken in natural light get the best results, preferably taken outside on a light, cloudy day. Avoid direct sunlight as this can cast hard shadows and make your subject squint. Artificial lighting or flash can change natural colours and add unwanted shadows. If you choose to take your photos indoors, position your subject in front of a window.
APPEARANCE & POSE
It's important to capture the natural personality and appearance of your pet or family member through their position or facial expression. Consider different poses - for example, you may wish a child to simply look at the camera smiling; or prefer them to be looking up, down, or away in a more pensive pose; or head resting in their hands. Although a smiling face is lovely, a wide open mouth and lots of teeth doesn't translate well in a drawing!
PERSPECTIVE
Photos are best taken at your pet or child's height, rather than from above or below, as this can destort the view. However, that said, a higher angle can work well for a less traditional portrait depending on how you wish them to be captured on paper. It's usually better if the subject is neither directly face on nor directly side on to the camera, as they can look a bit flat.
CLARITY & COMPOSITION
It's especially important that I can reference all of the subject's features clearly. Ensure all aspects of the face are in focus and that eye shape and colour are clearly visible. A very clear view of the eyes and around the eyes is essential. Aim to get a good close-up, ensuring tops of heads etc are within the frame. A popular choice is a 3/4 pose, also known as 'head and shoulders' pose and for this you don't need to include any more than the upper body in your photo. Check the background to make sure your subject stands out against it. Remove hats, hairbands, jewellery or pet collars if you prefer them not to be included but feel free to leave them in place otherwise.
TECHNIQUE
Having given thought to composition, tone and colours, I create a light drawing, placing key features and hair/fur structure. Then I work on a small area at a time, often beginning with the eyes, as I find this instantly brings the subject to life. Using a layering technique, I put graphite or colour down, using light pressure to mark up light and mid-tones. When the first layers are down I add detail and dark tones, building up graphite tone or colour many times over, referencing the subject's photograph closely throughout. When creating fine fur, I will often use the extraction technique to pull out colour from the page with a pen cutter or fine eraser. |This works particularly well on drafting film. Coloured pencil work is a lengthy process, a small area can take 2 hours or more to complete.
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All the materials I use are professional grade and acid-free. I favour Faber-Castell graphite pencils, Faber-Castell Polychromos, Caran d'Ache Luminance and Pablo coloured pencils. These brands have highly concentrated lightfast pigments to guarantee your portrait is preserved for a lifetime, provided it is suitably framed. I use a range of high quality papers such as Legion Stonehenge, Bristol, Clairefontaine pastelmat and Grafix drafting film.
MATERIALS
FRAMING
There are several points to consider when framing your chosen artwork, whether it is an original drawing or a print. A frame not only provides essential protection but, if done correctly, will also compliment the artwork.
Original pencil drawings are delicate, so choose conservation quality materials such as acid-free mounts and backing to protect both the drawing and paper from deterioration, due to environmental factors. A mount gives an elegant finish and you may wish to consider a double mount which are particularly well suited to compliment detailed drawings. The mount helps focus the eye on the drawing by setting it apart from the frame, and prevents the drawing from coming into contact with the glass, which could cause moisture to be absorbed into the paper, resulting in mould and discolouration.
I recommend requesting Level 2 framing for original artwork; and if framing a print, consider Level 3 or above. Standard mounts often available in department stores and other unspecialised outlets are generally Level 4 and do not offer sufficient long-term protection for either original artwork or prints.
It's important to ensure the glazing is UV deflective, which prevents the drawing from fading due to exposure to UV light. I also highly recommend choosing a low-reflective glass which will allow you to view your artwork to best effect.
Using these high quality materials will provide maximum protection from adverse conditions. However it's best to avoid hanging artwork in direct sunlight, above a heat source or in a high moisture environment.
For more information go to the Fine Art Trade Guild https://www.fineart.co.uk/level_2-framing.aspx
If you have commissioned a piece from me or are buying an original work or print, you may be interested in my framing service. Bespoke framing is available to my customers at a very competitive price compared to the high-street. I frame to Level 2 as standard (Level 1 also available) and have a wide range of frame mouldings and acid-free mounts to choose from. I use Tru Vue Ultravue glazing, an anti-reflective, premium glass that displays radiant colours and amazing clarity of artwork whilst providing 92% UV protection. I can provide mock-up visuals of your artwork shown within a choice of mounts and mouldings to help you make your selection.
BESPOKE FRAMING
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