My custom paintings are executed from photographs. I prefer to use slides or negatives instead of prints. A painting can be a surprise present.

For portraits, sitting is not required. If feasible, I like to meet the subject so I can be sure to understand some of its special spirit. In any case, I will interview you until I understand the emotion you want in the painting.

If you live near Portland, Oregon, we can work face-to-face. Otherwise, we will use a private area of my website to exchange and discuss information. In any case, we will jointly sign a contract that specifies all details and guarantees regarding the painting.

Several photographs can be combined into a single painting. In particular, the final background chosen for a portrait may be completely different from the one in the original photograph.

For instance, an outdoor scene can be substituted for a "studio" background. In the example above, I substituted a camping trip scene for the uninspiring background of the original photo.

However, I do need a minimum size for a face to be able to capture its features.

Of course, many photo artifacts such as scratches and fading can be corrected in the painting.

If you live near Portland, Oregon, my photographer can photograph the subject for you.

Depending on the subject, we will visit the person and take photos. This approach works especially well for paintings of children or grandparents. He is an expert in capturing candid scenes that allow the subjects to be themselves and demonstrate their special qualities.

Alternatively, I can give you advice on selecting and instructing a professional photographer were you live.

Once the photographs have been shot (usually about 150 shots!), we will select photos which will satisfy your expectations and be a strong basis for a painting.

From the photographs that we have selected together, I will design a maquette (a sketch plus computer generated components). The maquette will show the portrait proportions and composition details.

We will discuss the maquette either face-to-face or via a private area on my website. I will incorporate corrections into the design until we reach agreement about how the completed painting will look.

If needed, we will shoot new photos and repeat until you are satisfied.

After we agree on the design, I will begin painting.

At appropriate points, you will be invited to comment on the work, and details can be changed or added. This is an important step, since it is your eyes that must be satisfied.

I may also request another interview with you or the subject, to fully capture the emotion we want.

Upon completion of the painting, you have one week to return the painting for minor changes free of charge. (No one has ever done this, however!)

After the design is completed, actual painting time is 2 to 4 months.

The time depends on the complexity of the painting and the length of my queue.

I will give you an accurate estimate. (Remember, I used to be an engineering manager!)

Additional charges include:

• $50 for lace, jewelry, or fancy clothing.
• $300 to $1,000 for a portrait background other than simple vignette, depending on the complexity and size of the painting (typically ~$500 for an outdoor scene).
• $500 per extra subject in a group portrait.
• Extra large paintings will be charged an additional $2 per square inch.
• Photo expenses, if any (typical film charges for 150 shots ~ $80; photographer time ~ $100).
• Shipping and insurance.

Framing is usually not included in a contract, but I can work with you in selecting an appropriate frame for the finished portrait. I work extensively with an expert framer in Portland, Oregon.

If you desire, high quality prints and notecards of the finished portrait can also be ordered for your personal use. Again, I work with an expert reproduction house here in Portland, Oregon. I will arrange all the details for you.

Prices for oil paintings include neither mat nor frame. Pastel portraits are delivered unframed, with a single white mat and clear polished-edge glass frame.

Payment schedule:

• none, as we discuss the painting goals and I interview you about the subject.
• 1/3 due at shooting the photographs, which starts the detailed design process; or as I start the design with photographs you have provided.
• An invoice for the photograph expenses.
• 1/3 due upon final design agreement, when actual painting starts.
• Final 1/3 due upon the completion of painting.
• Shipping and insurance charges as they happen.

Upon completion, you have one week to return the painting for minor changes free of charge.

I retain copyright of the image, per standard professional practice. I may ask you to allow the painting to be entered in a competition. (It's always nice to have a prize to brag about with your painting!)