commissioning a portrait
useful information
A high quality photo really makes a difference to the detail that I can get into your drawing. A phone camera is usually good enough, no need for any fancy equipment. Although if you did happen to have a professional photo of your pet to use, I certainly wouldn't complain! The better the photo, the better the drawing will be.
If the portrait is for a gift or of a pet that has sadly passed away, I understand it may not be easy to get hold of good photos, but I am more than happy to advise on any that you have.
For examples of good & bad photos to use, please see my photography guide.
- Try to take the photo in good lighting, ideally not in bright sunlight as this can alter your pets true colours and cause harsh shadows. Outside on an overcast day or in a well lit room is ideal.
- Getting close enough to fill the frame of the phone/camera screen is a good idea, as this ensures characteristic details and individual hairs are visible and can then be reproduced.
- Choose an angle or pose that you would like me to use for your portrait when taking a photo.
- Consider whether you would like your pet's collar included in the portrait.
- If all else fails, perhaps get the chicken out for a bit of bribery!
To discuss whether or not a photo is suitable, please send it to me at osbornepwp@gmail.com and I can advise.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
You should know that I will always put all of my heart and effort into your portrait - and if working from a poor reference, I will do the very best that I can to give you a portrait to treasure, but this may have less detail than examples of my work from clearer photos.
I package my work safely and practically, with a personal touch which just makes it all the more special to receive.
All of my commissions (and prints!) now come with a certificate of authenticity, which not only give details of the piece, but guarantees it is a genuine artwork by Hannah Osborne.
I create my portraits using professional, lightfast, mostly oil based pencils and heavy acid
free paper. The paper I use will vary depending on the size and subject
of the portrait, I may go for a smooth paper, or I may use a more
textured one.
Generally speaking, for larger pieces especially, I would use Clairefontaine Pastelmat paper, it’s 360gsm and one of the best available art papers.
If opting for a plain background, I usually use a white or grey paper, but I will always check
with you first. As per my portfolio, you are very welcome to have a soft blended background in a colour(s) of your choice.
