The process begins with a discussion of the many types of portrait compositions available. Compositions can range from a head and shoulders to a full length figure. Background imagery is also a consideration. Backgrounds can be a simple room interior or a garden or a collage of images that relate to the life of the person depicted.

Once the composition is determined, a photograph session is arranged. The sessions usually take a couple hours. They are very informal and everything is done to assure the subject that it’s not a life or death situation. It’s actually quite fun, even for people who hate to be photographed. If a particular shot is bad or awkward, it makes no difference. There’s no deadline and experimentation is encouraged. Jeff sets up a mirror behind him so the model can see how she/he looks and can adjust hair, clothes or facial expressions. Jeff uses a digital camera and shows each shot to the person posing so they can see how they look. He also sets up a TV monitor to show the photos larger and then they can discuss what is working and what isn’t. It’s an easy, casual process and most people feel like rock stars or super models when the strobes start flashing.

The choice of clothing is often an issue and sometimes it works better if a few different outfits are tried out. A particular outfit might look great in person but less effective in a portrait pose. That can easily be determined by immediately reviewing the digital shots for each outfit.

After the photos are taken they can be reviewed immediately to select several that work well. The biggest problem usually is choosing which of several good shots works best. After one is selected Jeff will use that to create a portrait that will look nearly exactly like the photo.

PRICES

Prices are flexible so contact Jeff Whipple with your idea and see how all the aspects can be considered to arrive at a price that works for you.

Basically, the price is determined by the size and complexity of the portrait. The portrait becomes more complex when more people, pets or background images are added to the composition. A person standing alone in front of a blank background is obviously much easier to render than a person playing a tuba in front of an entire orchestra. The artist will be glad to help you determine what is possible within in your particular price range.

Oil painting portrait prices range from $2000 for a head and shoulders (no background imagery) 24” high, up to $25,000 for a multi-person large canvas with a background image.

Pencil renderings are about half of the painting price.

There are many variables and potential discounts so there is no obvious pricing for any one portrait idea. If you have an idea for a portrait, we can determine the cost from there.