A human portrait can be undertaken completely from a photograph providing the reference photo is sufficiently clear and the lighting is suitable (please scroll to the tab to see tips on taking good reference photos).

I can work from reference photographs provided by you (if they are of sufficient quality). If this is not possible, we can discuss a photo session at your/their home or at the studio. A photo session is an ideal opportunity to get to know the someone’s personality and expressions and discuss what kind of portrait is preferred and how they would like to be painted. This part of the process is important and gives an opportunity of reviewing photographs, lighting and choosing the composition. The painting can then be undertaken using the chosen reference photos. However, additional time and travelling expenses may be applicable depending on distance.

REFERENCE PHOTOS
If I am undertaking a portrait completely from a photograph, we can discuss your preferences by telephone. The quality of the painting will depend largely on the quality of the reference photo.  If you are providing the photograph, good resolution and lighting are particularly important. Basically, if I can’t see it, I can’t paint it.

Ideally, the photo will be crisp and in good focus, taken in natural daylight without a flash and with the light source above and slightly to the side/front of your loved one so that their eyes are not in shadow. If taken outside, it’s better to avoid direct sunlight and look for a balance of light and shadow.

If you are not sure if your photographs are suitable, please feel free to send me a selection at lucyandrewart@gmail.com and I'll be happy to take a look. When sending photos, please keep the image file as large as possible as images are often reduced in size for messaging and this can impact on the quality of the image. The larger the size of the image file the better.

DISCUSSING YOUR PREFERENCES

Before accepting a commission I will discuss your preferences, timescales and any additional costs with you. Only once you are happy, will I ask for an initial non-refundable deposit of 30% of the portrait cost. I will then keep you updated on progress.

FINAL APPROVAL

Once the painting or drawing is ready I will send you a photograph for your final approval. I will then ask you to pay the outstanding balance and any shipping costs.

TIMESCALES

Paintings can take between four and six weeks to be touch dry (depending on weather conditions, time of the year and how thickly the paint is applied). Once touch dry I will apply an exhibition varnish. The painting will be supplied unframed, so you can choose your preferred frame with a view to the location of the painting. A timescale will be discussed and agreed at the outset.

GETTING YOUR FINISHED PAINTING TO YOU
You are welcome to collect the painting from the studio. If you are unable to collect the portrait, I can deliver it (subject to distance) or the portrait can be shipped. Any additional shipping costs will be discussed with you at the outset.

Shipping will normally be via Royal Mail and with a tracking number. Paintings will be protected with acid free paper and bubble wrap within a cardboard box.