Ordering a portrait isn’t just buying art, it’s creating something that will outlive trends and photographs. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, wedding, there are a few things you should know before you send that first message to an artist.

1. A Hand Drawn Portrait is More Than a Photo

A good portrait represents a person’s personality, energy, and even their story. While hard copy photos get spoiled or lost, or digital ones disappear from phone gallery, with proper care portraits last longer, that’s why many people treasure them.

2. Pick the Style That Fits Your Agenda

  • Pencil or Charcoal Sketch – Its Classic, simple, and budget-friendly.
  • Watercolor or Colored Pencil – Very colorful, soft and full of emotion.
  • Oil or Acrylic Painting – Bold, textured, and long-lasting.
  • Digital Portrait – Fast and shareable online.

Think about where the portrait will be displayed and the mood you want it to have.

3. Choose the Right Photo (Or Photos)

The better the photo, the better the portrait. Aim for:

  • Clear, high-resolution images
  • Natural lighting (daylight is best)
  • Visible facial details without filters
  • Extra photos for skin tone accuracy and facial angles

If you can, share more than one photo so the artist has a better feel for the person’s features.

4. Agree on the Details Before You Start

Before paying, make sure you’ve discussed:

  • The exact size and style you want
  • How much it will cost and what’s included (e.g., framing, delivery)
  • Payment terms (many artists require a deposit)
  • Whether you’ll get to see a progress photo or sketch before the work is finished
  • How long it will take and the delivery method

Getting these things clear upfront avoids misunderstandings later.

5. Understand the Timeline

  • Pencil portraits can be done in about 3–7 days.
  • Paintings can take 1–3 weeks, plus extra time for drying and framing.

If you’re ordering for a special occasion,  book on time for busy periods like December, Valentine’s Day, or graduation season, some artist have a waiting list for times like these.

6. Delivery Options and Safety

Most portraits are delivered either framed or rolled safely in a protective tube. For longer distances, rolled delivery is considered the best and you can frame it yourself when it arrives.

Ask your artist if they use waterproof and sturdy packaging, and if tracking will be provided.

7. Give the Artist Room to Create

It’s good to share your vision, but once you’ve chosen an artist, trust them to work in their style. Many of the most loved portraits happen when clients let the artist bring their own creativity into the process.

8. Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until the last minute — good artists often get booked weeks in advance.
  • Sending poor-quality reference photos.
  • Not discussing revisions or seeing a progress update.
  • Paying without any written agreement on what you’re getting.

Final Word

Ordering a portrait is a partnership between you and the artist. The more prepared you are, the better the process.

When you’re ready to take the next step, you can check out our Custom Portrait Hub  to see our portrait options.

Beo Art Studio — telling stories through art, one portrait at a time.