Art is one of the most personal gifts you can give - whether it’s to celebrate a birthday, surprise someone special, or honour a memory. This guide walks you through how to find a reliable portrait artist, place your order, understand what to expect, and spot red flags before you pay.
Why Order a Custom Portrait?
- Emotion that lasts: A portrait captures story and feeling, not just a face.
- Personal & unique: Tailored to the person, the moment, and your message.
- Delivered to your door: From Lagos to Bayelsa and everywhere in between, portraits can be shipped nationwide.
How to Find a Reliable Portrait Artist
- Check the portfolio: Look for recent works in your preferred style (pencil, coloured, oil painting).
- Read social proof: Reviews, testimonials, and repeat clients indicate they are reliable.
- Assess communication: Clear answers to questions about pricing, timelines, and delivery are a good sign.
- Look for process transparency: Many artists offer sketches or progress updates.
Steps to Order a Portrait (Start to Finish)
- Choose your medium & size: Pencil, coloured, or full painting in a size that fits your space and budget.
- Send clear photos: Share sharp, well-lit images (front-facing, no heavy filters). Include extra photos for skin tone and details.
- Agree on price & timeline: Confirm total cost, deposit, balance, and delivery date, in writing.
- Review a sketch or update: If offered, check a draft or progress photo before finalisation.
- Confirm delivery details: Provide address, recipient name/phone, and preferred delivery window. Request a tracking update.
Photos: What to Send (and What not to)
- Best: High-resolution, natural light, clear facial features, low or no filters.
- Avoid: Blurry, dark, cropped faces; heavy filters that alter skin tone; overexposed or backlit shots.
Nationwide Delivery (All 36 States)
Portraits can be delivered across Nigeria — from busy city centres to university hostels and remote towns. For smooth delivery:
- Share a reachable phone number for the receiver.
- Note any access instructions (estate passes, office reception, landmarks).
- If it’s a surprise gift, specify discreet packaging or timing.
Red Flags to Watch Out For (and What To Do)
| Red Flag | Why It’s Risky | What To Do Instead |
|---|---|---|
| No portfolio or only stock images | Quality and authenticity are unclear | Ask for recent, dated samples and close-ups |
| Vague pricing & timeline | Surprise costs and delays | Request a written quote with delivery date |
| No process updates or proof | Hard to request corrections | Ask for a progress photo (if available) |
| Prices that seem “too good to be true” | May indicate rushed work or poor materials | Compare with market ranges before committing |
| No receipt or payment trail | Hard to resolve disputes | Use traceable payment and keep records |
Typical Timelines & What Affects Them
- Pencil portraits: 3–7 days depending on size and detail.
- Coloured/Oil painting: 7–21 days; paint drying/framing adds time.
- Peak seasons: December, Valentine’s, graduation periods may book out early so you have to plan ahead.
Before You Confirm Your Order
- Double-check names, dates, and spellings if you want an inscription.
- Confirm framing and gift-wrap options if it’s a surprise.
- Verify delivery address and a backup phone number for the courier.
Need a Starting Point?
If you’d like a central place to see sizes, styles, and a simple ordering flow, visit our Custom Portrait page. It follows the steps above and supports nationwide delivery.
Beo Art Studio — telling stories through art, one portrait at a time.
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