Portrait painting: Do you want to turn your hobby into your profession?

Portrait painting business: Above an image from long time ago when I just started my career as a commissioned portrait painter.

For those who would love to do portrait painting on a commission basis, once again, I want to give some advice. The most important thing I must say is: Make sure you’re good enough.

Portrait painting as a business. Some advice by Ben Lustenhouwer. — One of my first commissions

Portrait painting quality

Study portrait painting as much as possible from live model.
Take some portrait painters as examples and examine their art. Try to discover why their work is so good. Not only for techniques but also the visual quality of the work.
Don´t be satisfied with your own result too quickly! Do not think you’re good when people around you find your work fantastic.
Realize that you should be able to bring to fruition a portrait under any circumstances. Provide the perfect photography, if you’re going to work on that basis.

Make yourself known

When you think your level is good enough, spend a lot of time and energy on painting some good sample-portraits.
Show them to the world. Today there is Facebook, Instagram, own websites etc etc. Make good use of them. Show only your best work!

Pricing

Try to find out what artists of a similar level as you charge for a portrait. Work out your own pricing list, divided into categories: head, head and shoulders, mid-size, three quarters, full figure.
If one asks you for an indication of prices, send this list. Never answer or negotiate verbally on request. Haggling over a price is more appropriate for a second hand car dealer.

Professional

Be professional at all times, as always comply with agreements. Some customers can be very demanding or tricky. If you can not handle it, do not start this profession.
Keep the customer informed of the painting’s progress.

Mission Impossible