The Portrait Commission Process
What is it like to commission a portrait from LRT Studio?
Step One: Tell Me About Your Portrait
Every commission starts with an inquiry form where you’ll tell me about your project.
I’ll ask about the subject, your vision for the portrait, preferred medium, timeline, and anything you’d like me to know about the story behind it.
Some clients have every detail planned. Others simply know they want to preserve someone important. Both are perfectly welcome.
Submitting an inquiry doesn’t commit you to anything. It’s simply the first conversation.
Step Two: Consultation & Planning
Once we’ve decided to move forward, we’ll refine the vision together.
We’ll review your reference photographs, discuss composition, color palette, mood, size, and any symbolic details you’d like incorporated into the painting.
This planning stage ensures we share the same vision before the painting begins.
Step Three: Painting Your Portrait
This is where the painting begins.
Working in gouache or pen and ink, I build each portrait by hand through careful observation and interpretation.
Rather than copying a photograph exactly, I look for the small qualities that make someone recognizable: their expression, posture, energy, or the subtle details that loved ones immediately notice.
Throughout the process, I’ll share progress updates at key stages so you can follow the painting as it comes to life.
Step Four: Finishing & Delivery
Once complete, every portrait is carefully reviewed, signed, dated, and packaged for its journey home.
Each artwork is created using professional archival materials intended to last for generations, allowing the portrait to become part of your home and your family’s story.
Portraits Created With Intention
To Celebrate
Weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, and life’s milestones.
To Remember
Memorial portraits honoring loved ones and beloved companions.
To Honor Relationships
Portraits celebrating couples, chosen family, lifelong friendships, and the people who make a house feel like home.
To Preserve a Moment
Some moments don’t need a special occasion. They’re simply worth holding onto.
Frequently Asked Questions: Commission Process | FAQs
Does submitting an inquiry commit me to a commission?
No. Submitting an inquiry simply begins the conversation. It gives us an opportunity to discuss your ideas, answer questions, and determine whether the project is the right fit. There is no obligation to move forward, and many clients use the inquiry process simply to explore possibilities before making a decision.
Can you work from photographs?
Yes. Most portraits are created using client-provided photographs as reference material. Whether you already have a favorite image or need help selecting the strongest references, I’ll guide you through the process. The goal is to create a portrait that feels authentic to the subject, not simply to recreate a photograph.
What happens if my reference photographs aren't perfect?
Don’t worry. Many commissions begin with photographs that aren’t ideal. During the consultation process, I’ll help evaluate your images and determine whether they’re suitable or if additional references would strengthen the final portrait.
Can multiple photographs be combined?
Often, yes. When appropriate, multiple reference photographs can be combined into a single composition. This is especially helpful for memorial portraits, older photographs, or situations where the ideal image doesn’t exist. Every composition is thoughtfully planned to feel natural and cohesive.
Will my portrait look exactly like the photograph?
Not necessarily. Every portrait is an interpretation rather than a direct reproduction. While achieving a strong likeness is essential, equal attention is given to atmosphere, gesture, color, and emotional presence. The finished artwork is intended to preserve not only how someone looked, but how they felt to those who know and love them.
What portrait sizes are available?
Portraits are currently available in a range of sizes, from intimate works measuring 4 × 6 inches to larger pieces up to 11 × 14 inches. The most appropriate size depends on your subject, intended display, and overall vision. We’ll discuss the best option together during the consultation process.
What materials do you use?
Each portrait is created using professional, archival-quality materials selected for their longevity and pigmentation. Current commission offerings include gouache and pen & ink on archival paper. Every piece is handcrafted using materials intended to stand the test of time and be enjoyed for generations.
How long does a portrait commission take?
Most portrait commissions are completed within 4 to 5 weeks once work begins. Completion times may vary depending on the complexity of the project and current studio availability. Once complete, your portrait is carefully packaged and shipped, or prepared for local pickup If your portrait is intended for a birthday, anniversary, holiday, or another meaningful occasion, please mention your deadline when submitting your inquiry. Whenever possible, accommodations will be made to meet your timeline.
Will I receive updates while my portrait is being created?
Yes. Thoughtful check-ins are built into the commission process, providing opportunities to share progress, answer questions, and ensure the portrait continues moving in the right direction without interrupting the creative process.
How does payment work?
Once your commission has been accepted, you’ll receive a service agreement outlining the project, timeline, and terms. A 50% non-refundable deposit reserves your place in the studio schedule. The remaining balance is due upon completion before delivery.
Can I request privacy for my commission?
Absolutely. Your privacy is always respected. While some completed commissions may be shared in my portfolio or on social media, I understand that many portraits are deeply personal. If you prefer your artwork remain private, simply let me know during the inquiry process.
Do you accept every commission request?
Not always. Each inquiry is thoughtfully reviewed to ensure it aligns with the studio’s artistic approach, current availability, and the type of work I create. This allows me to give every accepted commission the time, care, and attention it deserves.
Is there a waiting list?
Commission availability varies throughout the year, and only a limited number of portraits are accepted at any given time.
If you’re hoping to have a portrait completed for a specific date or occasion, I recommend reaching out as early as possible to discuss availability.
What if I still have questions?
You’re always welcome to ask. If you don’t see your question answered here, I’d be happy to help. Whether you’re ready to begin or simply exploring the idea of commissioning a portrait, feel free to reach out using the contact form.
Intentionally Created. Personally Meaningful.
Every custom portrait commission begins with a conversation.
Before we talk about size, materials, or pricing, I want to understand why you’re commissioning the piece. Maybe you’re celebrating a relationship, remembering a beloved pet, marking a milestone, or creating a gift for someone you love.
Those stories shape the painting just as much as the reference photographs.
Throughout the process, you’ll be included with thoughtful communication and progress updates while I guide the artistic decisions. My goal isn’t simply to recreate an image; it’s to create a portrait that feels deeply connected to the person, relationship, or memory it represents.