
Graphite & Pastel
Commissions
Custom portraits are available in graphite or pastel, with a typical timeline of 6–8 months from the initial sitting to final delivery.
- Consultation: Every commission begins with a consultation—either in person (for clients in the Chicago area) or via video call. This hour-long conversation is a chance for us to get to know each other and discuss your vision for the portrait: size, setting, clothing, composition, and budget.
- Sitting: After we’ve defined the scope of the portrait, we’ll schedule a photo session—typically held in the sitter’s home, workplace, or another meaningful location. The shoot lasts about three hours, during which I’ll capture a range of reference images, possibly with varied clothing or settings. We’ll review these together on-site to ensure we’re on the right track. Any necessary travel or accommodation expenses at this stage are the client’s responsibility.
- Work: Back in the studio, I’ll refine the reference images—sometimes combining multiple photos to create a digital mockup that closely reflects the final composition. Once you’ve approved the mockup, I’ll provide a contract for signature and request a 50% non-refundable deposit. With that, the full-scale portrait begins.
- Completion: As the portrait nears completion, I’ll share digital photos of it for your review. Minor revision requests can be considered at this time, and at my discretion. Once the portrait is finished, and you’ve approved the final image, the remaining balance is due.
- Framing & Delivery: Your portrait is now ready to be shipped. For clients in the Chicago area, I’ll deliver the portrait personally at no additional charge. Otherwise, I’ll arrange for reliable shipping, but all related expenses are the client’s responsibility.
I also offer custom framing of completed portraits for a reasonable fee–typically cheaper than most retail options. If you’re interested, I’ll send you moulding and mat options for your consideration prior to shipping.
For more information on procedures and pricing, feel free to reach out using the form below. I look forward to hearing from you!

Commissions
Graphite & PastelPortrait commissions are available in graphite or pastel, and usually take between 8-12 months from initial sitting to final delivery.
Consultation: Every commission begins with a consultation—either in person (for clients in the Chicago area) or via video call. This hour-long conversation is a chance for us to get to know each other and discuss your vision for the portrait: size, setting, clothing, composition, and budget.
Sitting: After we’ve defined the scope of the portrait, we’ll schedule a photo session—typically held in the sitter’s home, workplace, or another meaningful location. The shoot lasts about three hours, during which I’ll capture a range of reference images, possibly with varied clothing or settings. We’ll review these together on-site to ensure we’re on the right track. Any necessary travel or accommodation expenses at this stage are the client’s responsibility.
Work: Back in the studio, I’ll refine the reference images—sometimes combining multiple photos to create a digital mockup that closely reflects the final composition. Once you’ve approved the mockup, I’ll provide a contract for signature and request a 50% non-refundable deposit. With that, the full-scale portrait begins.
Completion: As the portrait nears completion, I’ll share digital photos of it for your review. Minor revision requests can be considered at this time, and at my discretion. Once the portrait is finished, and you’ve approved the final image, the remaining balance is due.
Framing & Delivery: Your portrait is now ready to be shipped. For clients in the Chicago area, I’ll deliver the portrait personally. Otherwise, all shipping-related expenses are the client’s responsibility. I offer custom framing of completed portraits for a reasonable fee–typically cheaper than most retail services. If you’re interested, I’ll send you frame and mat options for your consideration prior to shipping.