Frequently asked questions

  • What do you charge?

    The cost depends on the size and style of commission. As a guide, I charge £350 for a portrait of a single subject in graphite pencil on A3 (297 x 420mm) acid-free, off-white paper, and £425 for a single animal in pastels on roughly A3 acid-free pastel paper (head or whole body). Double or group portraits and ones with backgrounds cost more – please ask me for a quote if you’re interested. I charge extra to take the reference photos (see below). All portraits are supplied without a mount or frame.

    A non-refundable 50% deposit is required.

    There’s a £15 charge per portrait for overnight Special Delivery postage and packing (P&P) within the UK. If you live outside the UK, please request a quote for P&P.

    If it’s an illustration, painting or design commission you have in mind, please contact me to discuss your requirements and the fee.

  • Is VAT applicable?

    No.

  • Do you meet the people and animals you draw?

    In many cases, yes. If a home visit is possible and you wish me to take the reference photos for the portrait(s), I’ll charge an agreed extra fee, calculated according to the number of subjects and the distance from where I live in West London.

  • How much input will I have into the choice of image?

    I’ll work closely with you to select an image that you feel best represents the look and personality of the person or pet. If I’m taking the photos myself, we can discuss the images as we go along.

  • Can I provide the photo?

    Yes. I’ve produced many successful portraits this way, particularly for clients who live abroad or too far away in the UK for me to visit. I’m happy for you to send me possible images for advice, and can provide guidelines for taking suitable photos.

  • What if the photo needs slight adjustment?

    One of the advantages of working from photos is that tweaks can be made to things likes clothing and hair. Occasionally I combine elements from more than one photo.

  • Can I comment on the final drawing?

    Yes, I’ll show you the finished portrait digitally for approval before I spray it with fixative. (Please note: pastel portraits smudge easily but I use very little fixative on them to avoid dulling the colours.) In the unlikely event that you are not completely satisfied, I’ll be happy to discuss the drawing with you and, if necessary, make a minor adjustment.

  • Is a group portrait possible?

    Yes, I do double and triple portraits, usually on A2 paper – please contact me to discuss the size and fee. Most people choose single portraits of people, for the practical reason that in time each subject may wish to have their own picture.

  • How long does it take?

    This depends on my workload and the urgency of the commission, but I’m usually able to produce a portrait within three weeks of agreeing on the image and receiving the deposit. If you require something for a particular occasion such as a birthday or anniversary, we’ll agree a deadline that gives you plenty of time to have the picture framed.

  • Can I get copies of the finished artwork?

    Yes, I can arrange for premium-quality, lasting reproductions on matt, acid-free cotton paper (Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308gsm). The price depends on the size and quantity ordered. For example, A3 copies cost £50 for the first one and £25 each for any additional ones.

    Copies of my prints are also available to order. Please contact me for more details.