The Portrait Commission Process
What Happens
Initial Visit: I begin the commissioned portrait process by
traveling to my client’s location for one or two days to
collect necessary information. My purposes are to get to
know the subject, discuss the details of the portrait, and
develop the pose, clothing, and setting. The client and I also
decide upon scope, size, location where the portrait will
hang, and all other variables that will help me present the
subject in a creative manner.
Creating Reference Materials. During the initial visit, I
take digital photos of the subject, which takes an hour or
two. My client and I review them on my laptop computer
and together decider which images I will use as references
while creating the portrait in my studio. I often also have
the subject pose so that I can complete a sketch in oils of my
client’s head and shoulders and sometimes hands. This takes
two or three hours. I find these oil sketches invaluable when
planning and developing the final portrait.
Painting the Portrait: I begin work back in my studio
using this sketch, these photos, and my impressions from
visiting with the subject. I may contact the client thereafter
to discuss composition or other elements in more detail, and
may send the client simplified images that present an
overall impression of how the painting will develop. When
the painting is between half and two-thirds completed, I
present it to the client for comments. Before or after this
point, I may request an additional sitting either in my studio
or at the client's location. Additionally, I usually require a
final sitting to complete the portrait.
Other Concerns:.I keep all photos, sketches, layouts, and
artwork that I create as references to aid in creating the
final painting. These are not for sale. Additionally, I retain
the right to reproduce smaller images of the final painting
on my website and in promotional materials.
My Purpose: I strive to make this process exciting, enjoyable, and easy for the client and subject. While our relationship remains professional, I create my best work when the client, subject, and I work closely together and share one vision underlying my artistic creation.
Timeframe
I routinely finish commissioned portraits 12 months after the initial sitting and photo shoot. Sittings begin shortly after contract signing.
What It Costs
Fees start at $3,500 for small, simple portraits. More extensive portraits cost more; the amount depends upon
the size and complexity of the work. All travel, lodging,
framing and shipping expenses are in addition to this price,
as are all taxes.
1st Payment: I require payment of one third of the portrait price up front. This is non-refundable.
2nd Payment: I present the painting to the client when it is between half and two thirds completed. I require the second one-third payment at this time. If the client is not satisfied with the painting’s progress, he or she can decline payment and terminate the project, in which case I keep the painting.
3rd Payment: I require the last one-third payment, plus all sales tax, upon delivery of the finished painting.
Expenses: I require payment within 30 days of my
submission to the client of a bill for travel, lodging, framing,
and/or shipping expenses. These payments are non-
refundable and due even if the client opts to terminate the
project before completion.
All pages and images are copyright by Edward J. Reed. All rights reserved.
No part of this site may be reroduced without prior written consent.
