Custom Portraits are painted from photos that you provide, in conjunction with your description of what it is you want--single subject, head shot, full body, multiple subjects, multiple paintings of the same subject, specific background content, and so on. It will be useful for you to review the portraits in my Portrait Gallery to help clarify your choices and let me know when you inquire about the project exactly what you have in mind.

To inquire about a potential painting, click on the button below--this will take you to an email form that will allow you to contact me directly. I recommend that you attach low resolution copies of the photo(s) you have in mind, as this will give me a clearer idea of what the painting will involve. See my Photo Tips page for suggestions on choosing and sending suitable pictures.

You will probably want to consider cost in making your choices about your portrait. Again, the comments on the individual images in my Gallery can be helpful in giving you an idea of what costs what, but here are some general guidelines:

The main factor that determines cost is simply the amount of painting involved in creating the work--more subjects, more complex backgrounds, and so on equal higher cost.

To try be a bit more specific: the basic price for a custom portrait of a single subject is $75 to $100. A painting like Pooter, for example, with a simple color wash background costs about $75, whereas a painting like Wilbur with a more complex background of bricks and ivy costs about $95. Mickey & Tank, which has two subjects but a simple background, costs about $110. Bronson, which has a very detailed background, costs about $125. Sky and Rhona cost about $75 each, but since they were done together as companion pieces, the set cost about $135. The triptych painting of Charlie, involving three separate paintings, cost about $150.

None of this, of course, is set in stone. The best way to determine price more precisely is, again, to contact me, and we can discuss the particular project you have in mind.

Once we've discussed and agreed on a project, the next step is to get me workable versions of your photos (Photo Tips) and a $40 deposit that I require before I begin a painting. To pay this deposit, simply go to Purchase page, and click on Pay Deposit.

The time it will take me to complete your painting depends a lot on what else I have on my plate--I will let you know when I respond to your inquiry what my time-frame looks like. I do, however, maintain a waiting list, so there's no harm in getting your project on the books as soon as possible. There's no harm, either, in letting me know that you need a portrait asap--I might be able to accommodate you.

When your painting is completed, I will send you an email proof, so you can see the portrait before it's finally printed and mailed. Final payment of the balance can then be made through my Purchase page, by clicking on Pay Balance.

All custom portraits will be printed on archival quality watercolor paper, and will look magnificent when they are matted and framed. Finished portraits will be shipped to you via USPS at no additional charge. If you have sent me hard copies of photos, they will be returned with the final portrait

Given the unpredictable elements that will always crop up in ordering a custom product, it is important that we be flexible and patient with each other in ensuring that you get the portrait you want: I will do my best to give you the clearest possible guidelines on what I offer, what I need, and what it will cost, and you, in turn, will let me know about any particular requests or questions you might have along the way.
Communication, as they say, is always the key, and you should never hesitate to send me your thoughts, questions or suggestions at
swilde@wildeaboutanimals.com.