Frequently asked questions.

First, decide who the portrait will depict, and whether they will appear alone or as a group — this shapes composition and style. Consider where it will hang and its purpose, whether formal or informal. Reflect on the style you prefer, from a painterly to a more realistic hand, and your budget — shipping is always included, and framing is an optional choice priced by size. Your portrait advisor will help you weigh each of these.

A portrait advisor helps you plan your commission and gather your photographs; your painter develops the portrait in oil; you review a proof and request any changes; and the finished portrait is delivered. From consultation to delivery, a commission generally takes 2–3 weeks depending on the artist and the complexity of the work.

You don't need to. We match your commission to a painter whose strengths suit your subject, and the Service stands behind the finished work. Your portrait advisor guides you through the choices that matter most: the photograph to paint from, the size, and the framing. Before anything is final, you will see a proof of the completed oil painting and may request changes until you are fully satisfied. Your approval is the guarantee, so there is no need to weigh up artists in advance.

Oil portraits start at $790, with shipping included. The final price depends on the subject, the size of the portrait, the number of figures, and your choice of framing. Framing is offered in several styles and added at our cost, and you are welcome to choose no frame. Your portrait advisor is glad to help you find the right option for your budget.

No. The price you pay for a commissioned portrait through National Portrait Service is the same as you would pay working directly with the artist. By using the Service, you gain an experienced partner in securing the portrait you desire.

Framing is offered in several styles, priced by size and added to your total at our cost — or you may choose no frame and have the portrait shipped rolled for your own framer. Shipping is included either way.

Yes. Where subjects were photographed separately, or where no single photograph suffices, the Service composes the portrait from several references so the figures appear together as one unified work.

Reference photographs are held in confidence and used solely for the commission. Your finished portrait is never shared publicly without your consent.