COMMISSIONS

Why commission a portrait?

A portrait is so much more than a photo, it's a timeless piece of art that can remain in a family for future generations to remember, honour and pay tribute to loved ones.

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When choosing me to draw a portrait for you, rest assured you are in safe hands. I draw each person as if they were my own family, and I will ensure that you will receive a portrait that not only is a faithful representation of the sitter, but a truly unique and engaging drawing that tells their story and captures their character, essence and spirit.

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The process

​The key to getting the perfect portrait is communication. It is a very collaborative process, I will keep in constant contact with you  - we will have many conversations to discuss your requirements, and for me to get to know the person I'm drawing and why I'm drawing them. I pride myself on building a great relationship with my clients and maintaining excellent contact throughout the process. I’m friendly, approachable and reliable, and committed to ensuring you get the best portrait possible.

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Here are the general steps taken when commissioning a portrait:

1. Get in touch - you can email nikcourtney.portraitartist@gmail.com or fill in this form​

2. Discuss requirements - we will discuss everything from which reference photos to use, how I will draw the portrait, what size, medium etc 

3. Send me your photos - 

   • The most important element of the process is your photo(s). The best way for me to view your photo(s) is if you send the original(s) by email to nikcourtney.portraitartist@gmail.com.

   • The photo(s) must ideally be of high resolution so that I can see as many details of the face as possible.

   • If you are able to take a photograph especially for your portrait, you can find some tips in my photo guide (opens in a new tab).​

   • If you only have low resolution photos, then please get in touch so I can see if I’m able to work with them. 

   • If you only have a physical photo, don't worry, I will let you know how you can send this to me.

4. Agree a completion date - my average lead time is four months. If you have a deadline within this time frame then please get in touch and I’ll see what I can do.

5. Agree a price - prices very much depend on what you'd like me to draw and the quality of your reference photo. To get an idea of what your portrait could cost I have put together a Price Guide at the bottom of this page. 

6. Sign a contract - I will send you a contract with all the details for you to read through and sign.

7. Pay deposit -  I require a non-refundable deposit of 50% of the agreed price upon agreement of what work is to be carried out.

 

Upon completion of the portrait, I will send you a digital photograph of the completed work for your approval before final payment. If you need me to make any small revisions, you need to inform me before approving the digital image.

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Please have a read through my terms and conditions to ensure you're aware of important key factors. I will always gladly answer any questions you have and advise on how to get the best portrait possible.

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Prints

​​Prints would make an ideal gift for loved ones (see Price Guide below for prices).

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All commissioned portraits are copyrighted in my name – Nik Courtney. Only I can make copies/prints for you. I outsource printing to get the best quality giclee prints. Please see the terms and conditions page for full details about copyright.

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Please let me know during our discussions if you're considering getting prints of your portrait.​​​​​​

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