Author: nicolemitchell44

Welcome and thank you for your interest in commissioning a portrait with me!

The first step in this process is to decide what kind of portrait you want. Do you want a single subject or a piece that shows the relationship between subjects? Color or black and white? Do you want the dramatic and classic contrast of charcoal- or the detail and subtlety of graphite or mixed media? What is the size that best suits your home space and decor? Timeframe? Budget? Is the piece for you personally or will it be a timeless gift for someone special?

The most straightforward (and preferred) pathway to get started is to reach out and set up a time that I could come take some photographs of the subject(s). I mostly work from photographs and starting with a high quality photo (lighting, detail, composition, personality shining through) makes a huge difference between a good likeness and a piece that takes your breath away. If I am able to take the photographs myself and have more control over that part of the process, the finished product shines a little brighter. My demeanor is calm and efficient (and I’m a mom of young children!), so no worries that I’ll come with my camera and stress everyone out! From there, we would decide together which photograph(s) are best to use for the commission. 

Sometimes, an in person photograph session isn’t possible. Distance can be an obstacle (I live in southern Alabama but do a bit of traveling). So, what makes an ideal reference photo? It needs to be a high resolution, quality image that captures fine details. It needs to be clear and close up enough to highlight the important details and also capture the personality or “essence” of the subject. 

After we decide together on the photograph, I will give you an anticipated timeframe for completion and you will pay a deposit of one half of the final price. My goal once we have the photo is 4-6 weeks but it can often be done faster than that and I will always communicate if I think it may take longer. I will send progress pictures as I work and this is the time to give feedback about the accuracy of the proportions and any glaring inaccuracies… but it is also crucial to keep in mind that it can look rough in the beginning and middle stages. HERE are a few examples of step by step pieces. It is my goal to satisfy my own artistic pride AND make you happy with the final product and will work as hard as possible to do so, even starting over if needed.

Once the portrait is complete I will send you a final photograph proof for approval. If you want prints made, I will then start that process (read more about that below) and set up a time for delivery. If you are local, I will hand deliver. If you live far away, I will wrap it up with care and ship it to you. I recommend getting a custom mat cut for your portrait even if it fits in a standard sized frame (which it will) because the mat will make it centered just right and really make it look beautiful in the frame. Having a custom mat cut is inexpensive and makes a big difference. I’m happy to help you do this or have it done for you before delivery. Once you receive your portrait and have it framed, I would love to see a photo of the finished product happy in its new home (and/or beside the live subject!) and would appreciate word of mouth referrals, reviews, and future commissions. 

Introductory Prices

Single Subject:

Charcoal or graphite 9×12 $225

Charcoal or graphite 11×14 $250

Charcoal or graphite 12×16 $275

Pastels and watercolors (only taking special orders at this time, contact for consultation and price)

Double Subjects:

Two separate 9x12s $400

Charcoal or graphite 11×14 $425

Charcoal or graphite 12×16 $450

These are base prices for standard head and shoulder portraits and increase depending on additional features (hands, intricate clothing, additional items displayed in the portrait, etc.). Larger sizes are available, prices and options will be listed soon- in the meantime, contact me to discuss.

Prints

Prints can be made in custom sizes- 5×7, 8×10, and 9×12 are most popular. I work with a local graphics designer and professional print shop. Print packages start at $50 please contact me for more details.