Frequently asked questions
Questions about portrait commissions, pricing, timings or working from photographs? Read through our frequently asked questions.
How much does it cost to commission a painting?
Portrait commissions start from £250, with prices varying according to the size, number of subjects and level of detail involved.
My current starting prices are:
21 × 15 cm (A5): from £250
30 × 21 cm (A4): from £350
42 × 30 cm (A3): from £475
60 × 42 cm (A2): from £850
100 × 75 cm: from £1095
These prices provide a guide rather than a fixed quote. More complex backgrounds, full-length figures or larger groups may cost more. See my pricing guide to learn more or get in touch with your preferred photograph and size for a bespoke quote.
What sizes and options do you offer?
Standard sizes are A5, A4, A3, and A2. Custom sizes (and shapes) are often available on request. I typically work on canvas or canvas board.
How long does a commission take?
Approximately 6–8 weeks for an A5 oil painting and 8–10 weeks for A4 or A3, depending on complexity, current queue and drying time. Larger projects will take closer to 10 – 12 weeks.
How far in advance should I order a commission for a birthday/christmas present?
I recommend ordering well in advance of any deadline (at least 2 months ahead!). If you are looking to commission an oil painting in time for Christmas, please contact me by 3rd of November 2026 at the latest and bear in mind that commissions are limited and arranged on a first come first served basis. That said, occasionally I am able to accommodate rush orders so do feel free to reach out, and I’ll always try my best to see what I can do.
How do I commission a painting? What is the process?
First, get in touch via the commission request form to discuss your idea. We’ll talk about the subject, size, and any reference photos. Once we agree on details and pricing, a 40% deposit is required to confirm the commission. I will then create the painting (with updates along the way), and upon completion I’ll send you a photo of the finished piece. The remaining balance is paid, and then the artwork is delivered to you or you are welcome to pick it up yourself if you live locally.
Do I need to pay a deposit? What are the payment terms?
Yes – a 40% deposit secures your slot. The balance is due after you approve the final painting, before delivery.
Do you work from photos or do I need to sit for you in person?
I work from your photographs, so no in-person sitting is required. Clear, well-lit images yield the best results.
What kind of photo should I provide?
The subject’s face has to be clear (not blurry!), the photo should represent the desired pose or expression, and good lighting/color always helps. Send multiple photos if you’re unsure, so we can discuss which would translate best into a painting. The better the photo, the better the painting!
Can you splice two or three photos together to make one painting?
No. Sadly, because of the more realistic style of painting that I do, I am not able to work from several different reference images to create your painting. This is due to issues with different lighting and perspectives in the references.
Do the portraits come framed?
Paintings are supplied unframed, so you have the freedom to frame them to your taste.
How will I receive the painting? Do you ship UK-wide?
The painting will either be shipped to you or if you’re based near London you are welcome to come and pick it up in person. At the moment I do not ship internationally; I accept commissions from UK-based customers only.
I need a painting urgently - can you do a rush order?
Yes – sometimes. Standard timelines are 6–10 weeks, however, if you have a tight deadline, contact me. I may be able to accommodate a rush order depending on my schedule. That being said, if you need the painting within 2 weeks of reaching out to me, that will not be enough time to get it painted, dry, and delivered to you.
Will I see the painting before it’s delivered?
Yes, I can email you a progress photo or two as I work on your piece. Once it’s finished, I will send photos of the final painting for your approval before shipping.
What if I’m not happy with the finished painting?
I take a lot of care to make sure every portrait meets a high standard. We’ll agree on the perfect photo before I start painting, so you’ll already have a clear idea of what the final piece will look like. If you love the reference image, you’ll love the painting.
Do you do other types of commissions?
I specialise in portraits. If you’re looking for pet portraits, landscapes or other subjects, feel free to ask – I take those on selectively.
