Commissioning a portrait is a personal experience. Whether you are celebrating a relationship, honoring a loved one, remembering a companion, or creating artwork for your home, the process begins with understanding what to expect.
At LRT Studio, each portrait commission is created to preserve the people, relationships, and memories that matter most. This guide answers common questions about the commission process, artwork options, timelines, pricing, reference photos, and what it is like to work together.
If you have a specific idea in mind, you are always welcome to reach out and begin a conversation.
General Portrait Commission Questions
What is a portrait commission?
A portrait commission is a custom artwork created specifically for an individual, couple, family, or companion animal. Instead of selecting an existing piece, you work directly with the artist to create a portrait based on your story, preferences, and the memories you want to preserve.
At LRT Studio, commissioned portraits are created from meaningful photographs and conversations with clients to create artwork that feels personal, timeless, and connected to the subject.
Why commission a painted portrait instead of purchasing another type of artwork?
A commissioned portrait carries a meaning that extends beyond decoration. It preserves a person, relationship, or moment in a way that can become part of a family’s history.
Many LRT Studio clients commission portraits for:
- Anniversaries
- Weddings
- Family milestones
- Memorial pieces
- Pet portraits
- Meaningful gifts
- Celebrating important relationships
The finished artwork becomes something that can be lived with, displayed, and passed down over time.
The LRT Studio Commission Process
How does the portrait commission process work?
The LRT Studio commission process is designed to be thoughtful, collaborative, and easy to understand.
The process typically includes:
1. Inquiry and Consultation
You share your idea, the story behind the portrait, and any important details you would like preserved.
2. Planning and Proposal
Based on your vision, LRT Studio provides recommendations for artwork size, composition, materials, timeline, and investment.
3. Reference Review
Together, we review photographs and determine the strongest reference images for creating the portrait.
4. Creation
The portrait is carefully developed through drawing, painting, refinement, and finishing stages.
5. Completion and Delivery
Once complete, your artwork is prepared for delivery and ready to become part of your home and story.
How do I start a portrait commission with LRT Studio?
The first step is completing the portrait commission inquiry form.
The questionnaire helps me understand who the portrait is for, the story behind the commission, and what you hope the finished artwork will represent.
After reviewing your responses, I will follow up with recommendations and next steps.
Artwork Questions
What types of portraits does LRT Studio create?
LRT Studio specializes in intimate portrait commissions featuring:
- Individuals
- Couples
- Families
- Children
- Pets and companions
Each portrait is created with attention to the personality, connection, and emotional significance of the subject.
What materials does LRT Studio use?
LRT Studio currently creates portrait commissions using gouache and pen & ink on archival paper.
These materials allow for detailed, expressive artwork while supporting the long-term preservation of each piece.
What sizes are available for portrait commissions?
The recommended size depends on the number of subjects, level of detail, and how you want the artwork to feel within your space.
Current portrait sizes include:
4 x 6 inches
Best suited for small single-subject portraits.
5 x 7 inches
Ideal for a small individual portrait with slightly more presence.
8 x 10 inches
A versatile option for individuals or smaller group portraits.
11 x 14 inches
Recommended for larger compositions with multiple subjects or additional detail.
During the consultation process, LRT Studio will help determine the size that best fits your story.
Recommended Reading: How to Choose the Right Size for a Portrait Commission
Reference Photo Questions
Can you create a portrait from a photograph?
Yes. Most LRT Studio commissions begin with photographs provided by the client.
The photograph does not need to be professionally taken. What matters most is that it captures the personality, expression, and connection you want preserved.
What makes a good reference photo?
Strong reference photos usually include:
- Clear details of the subject
- Natural expressions
- Good lighting
- A meaningful pose
- Enough information to capture personality
If you have multiple photographs, LRT Studio can often combine elements from different images to create the final composition.
Can you combine multiple photographs into one portrait?
Yes. Combining photographs is often possible and can be especially meaningful when creating portraits of loved ones who were photographed separately.
This can be useful for:
- Family portraits
- Memorial portraits
- Couples portraits
- Pet portraits
The goal is always to create a natural and emotionally connected final image.
Timeline and Investment Questions
How long does a portrait commission take?
Most LRT Studio commissions are completed within approximately 4 to 5 weeks once the project begins.
Timeline may vary depending on:
- Artwork size
- Number of subjects
- Complexity of the composition
- Current studio availability
A timeline estimate will be provided during the proposal process.
How much does a portrait commission cost?
Portrait commission pricing depends on several factors, including:
- Size
- Number of subjects
- Complexity
- Materials
- Creative requirements
Portraits start a $125.00 and scale according to size and number of subjects.
To receive a custom proposal, begin by submitting a commission inquiry.
Do you require a deposit?
A 50% deposit is required to reserve your commission date and begin the creative process.
Specific payment details are provided during the proposal and booking process.
Client Experience Questions
What information should I provide when requesting a commission?
The most helpful information includes:
- Who the portrait is for
- The story behind the commission
- Your preferred size or artwork style
- Your desired timeline
- Any important details about the subject
The more I understand the meaning behind the portrait, the better I can create artwork that feels personal.
Can I commission a portrait as a gift?
Yes. Portrait commissions make meaningful gifts for many occasions, including:
- Weddings
- Anniversaries
- Birthdays
- Holidays
- Retirement celebrations
- Family milestones
A custom portrait is a gift centered around memory, connection, and the people who matter most.
Do you create memorial portraits?
Yes. Memorial portraits are among the most meaningful commissions created at LRT Studio.
These pieces can help preserve the memory of someone special, including family members and beloved pets.
If you have photographs but want help determining what is possible, you are welcome to reach out.
Do you ship completed artwork?
Yes. Completed artwork can be prepared for delivery.
Shipping details and recommendations are discussed during the commission process.
Ready to Begin Your Portrait Commission?
Every portrait begins with a story.
Whether you are celebrating someone you love, honoring a memory, or creating a piece of artwork for future generations, LRT Studio is here to help preserve what matters most.