A portrait is a wonderful offering. Many portraits have lasted hundreds and thousands of years. They are often passed down from generation to generation. Here are some basics steps to consider: the consultation, reference, painting, and the final portrait.

 

Consultation

The first step for a portrait is a consultation. Issues are discussed such as type of portrait. Here are some options:

sitting v. standing
head and shoulders, 1/2 length, 3/4 length, etc.
single v multiple people
formal v. informal
simple v. complex background
framed v. unframed
purpose

Once this is clarified, clothing, special concerns, and such will also be covered. Allison is glad to help the subject select the most flattering clothing and poses for the client's goals.

Options for the size, media, commission fee, time frame, etc. will also be discussed before and after the initial consultation. It is important that the subject feel comfortable with the process. Allison can help guide the client with choosing the type of portrait and the clothing which best fits the individual's needs.

 

Reference

The next step is gaining reference. Different poses and lighting will be utilized in order to arrive at the most pleasing portrait for the subject.

For practical purposes, Allison can work from photos, preferably she will take her own. This is an important step for it is often said that the painting is only as good as the reference. Lighting is very important.

A brief mini-photo session from about 30-45 minutes at a convenient, agreed upon time will usually save the client from sitting still for long lengths of time. There is almost always a beautiful portrait pose within this time frame. Some portraits take over 40 hours to paint, and in this way the subject is free to spend more time the way he/she
really needs to.

 

Painting

At this point, the painting process is undertaken. Details of how portraits are painted may be found through the Step-by-Step Directory Page.

 

Final Portrait

Allison will present the final portrait towards the end of the painting process. Now, the client will be able to voice feelings, appreciation, and/or concerns about the portrait before it is varnished. Allison is able to help with the framing if that is needed.

All of these steps have been described to assist the client in obtaining the most pleasing portrait possible which the client, circle of friends, co-workers, and/or family may cherish for many, many years.