I am a classically trained oil painter and I use many of the time-honored, traditional techniques created by the Old Masters. I paint on the finest surfaces: oil primed linen panels that are archival and will last for many generations. I seek to create not only a good likeness, but also a sense of the subject's personality. I do not ever use photographic techniques that are meant to create something that looks like a painting. Although my portraits are very realistic, you will see some brushwork in the final product (this is what makes it a painting instead of a photograph). For some commissioned portraits, I use photos as the reference. For others, I paint from live sittings combined with photo references.

We start with an initial consultation over the phone, via zoom, or whatever your preferred mode of communication. We will settle on the image source (your photo, a photo I take for you, or a combination of photos and live sittings). You place your order. I get to work.

Prior to the consultation, it may be helpful for you to think about the following: 1) The personality of the sitter (be prepared to describe him/her to me.) 2) What is the occasion? Is this a gift? 3.) Where will the painting hang? (This is important for determining size, pose, frame style, and color scheme). 4.) What is the size? 5.) What is the setting/feel? (e.g. formal, casual, indoors, outdoors, spring, fall, etc.)

I may be able to work from a photo you supply depending on the quality of the photo. The best reference photos include the following elements: 1.) Well lit and clear enough to see small facial features 2.) Avoid flash and high contrast sunlight/dark shadows. 3.) Avoid distortions, such as an angle that makes the head look very large relative to other body parts. 3.) Aim for soft smiles and expressions. 4.) Big smiles and laughing, open mouths do not translate well into a portrait. If you aren't sure about a photo, set up a free consultation with me so that I can assess it. If your photo is not of sufficient quality, I may be able to enhance it. Multiple photo references are always encouraged so that I can get a general idea of the subject's mannerisms, expressions, posture, and likeness in various lighting situations.

Portraits taken from a photograph are priced as follows:

$1060 for a 12x16 | $1360 for a 14x18 | $1700 for a 16x20 | $2260 fo an 18x24

Portraits painted from life require a custom quote. Contact me for a free consulttion.

Once I receive your payment, then you are placed into my production schedule. I will brief you on the schedule prior to your payment so that there are no surprises. If you need to have the portrait completed on an expedited timeline, I will do what I can to accommodate you. It takes about eight weeks to complete the portrait. Once it is dry enough to ship, I send it off to you.

I can create a portrait that combines images of different people from different photos. However, lighting is critical and this will likely require some work in photoshop prior to starting the painting process.

You pay in full when you place the order; however, there is no risk to you since I offer a full money back guarantee (see above).

I want you to be happy! If for any reason you are unsatisfied with the portrait, let me know within 3 days of receiving it. Ship it back to me within 30 days. I will issue a full refund as soon as the portrait is returned.

Shipping and delivery costs and times vary based on where you are located. I ship from Ashburn, Virginia in the United States.