Portraits that capture the character and individuality of a person can help preserve precious memories and be passed down to future generations. If you commission a portrait painting, the decision as to which artist to choose becomes very important. Every credential of the artist such as training, skill and experience needs to be taken into consideration.

Examining a portfolio of work done by the artist is one way to determine skill and experience. This also reveals the particular style of the artist. You will soon be able to see whether the style is one you admire or not. You may also prefer an artist who works in a particular medium. Many mediums like pastels, charcoal, oils and water colors are used in portraiture and artists often choose to combine mediums.

Portraiture has always been popular and in the past this required many sittings, with the person remaining in a particular position for hours at a time. The process has changed now that photographs are used. However, portraiture that is simply a copy of a photograph loses its true essence and meaning.

The problem with the advent of photography, however, is that it has become easy to use a photograph as more than just a reference point. This means that the true meaning of portraiture can be lost. If a mere copy of a photograph is created, this does away with any real creativity and imagination. Many artists today still use life sketches together with photographs. Some use only photographs but these are ones they take themselves in a special session with the client. Others use both photographs and sketches.

Price is another important consideration. However, considering that such a commission is often a once in a lifetime experience, you may have to look further than just the price tag. You can save yourself money by choosing an artist who can make an adequate copy of a photograph. However, you might as well just have the photograph enlarged. Most artists are prepared to negotiate when it comes to cost.

Other details influencing the price of portraits are factors such as the size, the medium and the background chosen. Sizes vary from small head only or head and shoulders, to full length portraits. The smaller sizes tend to be more popular today as the full length portraits are overwhelming in the smaller rooms of today. Backgrounds chosen may be simple abstracts or more elaborate settings. These details are discussed with the artist and once the choices have been made, a contract can be signed. Most artists require a deposit before work commences.

A preliminary sketch is usually made so that the client can have some idea of what the end product will look like. At this stage it is still possible for the client to suggest minor changes. Once this has been settled, the artist proceeds with the painting itself. Some artists like to involve the client intimately at all stages of progress whilst others prefer no further involvement until the work is finished.

Commissioning an experienced and skilled artist will obviously cost more than just hiring someone to copy a photograph. The extra expense is usually worthwhile as such an artist is able to use tonal values and harmonies of color to bring out individuality and character. You will own a painting that you will be proud to pass down to future generations.