How to Commission a Portrait

I have set out below a summary of the main stages involved in commissioning a portrait.  Please feel free to get in touch and get in touch and I am happy to talk you through the process and any concerns you may have.

1. Select a photograph

Select a photo that you would like me to recreate for you. Feel free to pull together a selection of several photos and I am happy to advise you on which I think would work best.  Try to choose as high a quality image as possible. ​For more information on choosing the right photo see my photo selection guide.

2. Arrange your Commission

Get in touch via the Contact page, by email to elaineemeryart@outlook.com or via Facebook/ Instagram and we can then agree the details of your commission.  The information I will need is:-

  • Photo(s) to be used for the commission.
  • Size required (A4 or A3).
  • Date required.
  • If you’d like any prints with your order.
  • Anything extra required other than head and shoulders (for example full body or background to be included).

I will advise on what photo works best and agree a composition with you.  We can also talk about timescales if you need your portrait by a particular date.

I’m happy to send through several options of how the portrait could look so that you can pick the layout you prefer.

3.  Pay a Deposit

After speaking to you I will ask for a deposit to be paid which is just £30 for A4  and  A3 sizes.  This is paid via bank transfer or via Paypal. This will secure you a spot in my calendar.  

See page Commission Prices for full price details.  If you are unsure of costs please contact me for clarification.  I will confirm the full price payable before starting work on your portrait.

4.  Work in Progress

I will start work as per the timescale we have agreed. Once I feel that the picture is complete enough for you to be able to see what the final picture will look like I will send you a photo.  At this stage you can ask for any revisions to the picture and I will make any changes.​

5. Payment of the Final Balance

Once complete an image of your final drawing will be sent by email.   At this time please make the final payment of the outstanding amount.  I will send you instruction on how to pay the remaining balance.   Payment can be made via Paypal or by bank transfer.

6. Delivery

The final portrait (plus any prints you may request) will then be ready to send securely by tracked post.​  It will be well packaged to ensure it arrives safely.

UK shipping is free.  For international orders a postage price will be provided on request

7. Your Guarantee

I want you to be absolutely delighted with your purchase so, if you are not completely satisfied for any reason whatsoever, just get in touch and I will work with you to resolve your issue.  You will be able to see an image of the final drawing before postage to check that you are totally satisfied.

I am happy to answer any further questions you may have so please do get in touch!