P  O  R  T  R  A  I  T     A  R  T  I  S  T

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Do you work from photographs? 

A:  Yes.  Most of my portraits are done with the aid of a camera.  I prefer to take the photographs myself, but will work from yours if it is large and clear enough. 

Q:   How long does it take for you to finish a portrait? 

A:   I request the client to allow 4 to 8 weeks or longer depending upon my waiting list and the complexity of the portrait commissioned.  If a portrait is required urgently, let me know and I may be able to work it in.  The quality of your portrait could be compromised when done in a rush.

Q:   Can I send or e-mail you a photograph in digital format? 

A:   My best work is done from photos that I take myself, but if circumstances do not allow that, it is by far the best to send a good 35mm photographic print.  A digital image may be suitable but the resolution should be sufficient to show the detail- at least 500 dpi.

Q:   What are the characteristics of the best photograph? 

A:  A good clear photograph in which the subject is lit from one side and the shadows are not so dark as to block out detail.  Flash photos are not good because the flash tends to flatten the image.   Outdoor photos taken in the shade are sometimes the best light.  The face should be at least a half inch tall in the photo, and should be in clear focus. 

Q:  What if I don't like the portrait when you are finished?  Do I have to buy it?

A:   You will not have to buy the portrait if you are not happy with it.  Any money you have paid will be refunded. 

Q:   Do you frame the picture?

A:  Most times I refer my clients to a professional framer.  This is mainly  because I do not have a large enough selection of mat colors for the client to choose from to best enhance the portrait. 

Q:  Do you do paintings of other subjects such as animals or houses?  How much do you charge for those kinds of commissions?

A:   Yes.  I charge according to the complexity of the subject.  Most other subject matter is not as involved as a portrait would be and so less expensive.

Q:  Can you combine 2 or three different photos into one portrait? 

Y:   Yes.  Usually when I do that, the portrait would be done as a vignette with each individual in his or her own little "space" or "halo". 

Q:  Do pastels fade?  Do they smear?   How are they supposed to be framed?

A:  The pastels I use are very lightfast.  There is evidence that the colors in pastels will remain vibrant longer than a watercolor will.  There have been pastels discovered that are over 150 years old and are in much better condition than oils found of the same era, as oils will crack.  Pastels do need to be framed under glass, and will smear easily if touched.  The framer will need to mat the work or put a spacer between the art and glass to keep them apart. 

Q:  Can a pastel portrait be sent through the mail? 

A:  Yes, but I usually like to either deliver it personally or have the client come to pick it up.  That way we can discuss any changes that might need to be made. 

If you have any more questions that were not covered on this site: mailto:kfbarton@gmail.com

(307) 469-2888

Tips for taking your own photos