Commissions can be tricky, because of their very personal nature. Clear communication from the start will be essential in keeping us of the same mindset as to what to expect. Here are a few things to know:

Reference material (photographs, occasionally video) for a potential commission is of utmost importance, as I rely on it for 1) content: anatomical detail, posture/pose, and overall likeness or feel for the animal;  2) lighting: to me, a high-quality, well-lit photo is as important as the subject itself. My images are known for their drama and visual appeal, and I credit good lighting for that. I intend to stick with this aspect in my style; 3) clarity: a reference photo needs to be clear and as sharp as possible. Smart phone photos are absolutely fine.

Note: you may use your own favorite photo or photos, but it will merit a conversation prior to beginning the work. If the photo was taken indoors and therefore without strong natural lighting (or with a flash), I will prefer to get new photos, if possible. If that is not possible (horse has deceased, been sold, etc), we will discuss what to expect in the final.

I am currently ironing out a photography policy…  likely including an hour session with your horse, covered under the total fee for the painting, with additional photo sessions incurring a fee of $75-100/hour, depending on circumstances (travel distance etc).

I try to be reasonable. If you are an hour away and I drive to your place and it starts pouring rain, I will not charge you… We just need to plan well.

If you want to get some of your own good-quality pics, I suggest the following tips: 1) photograph early or late in the day. The sun lower to the horizon brings out delicious colors and longer shadows. However, too early or too late will result in near silhouette-y images….That “sweet spot” with time of day, photographers refer to as the “golden hour”. 2) Decide ahead of time if you would like a head shot, full body, dressed in tack, or not (I always prefer naked!), and angle — right or left, 3/4 or full side view etc. These issues often become moot however when you are actually out there trying to get “that perfect expression”. They are very good at not conforming to your agenda!

COST: everyone’s first question is usually cost.

Like a car… or a science illustration (or how to train a horse), the answer is: it depends.

It depends on: size, level of detail, reference material, etc. Before I can give a confident quote I will need to see the photo or have a discussion regarding these aspects.

Having said all that, my commissions in oil on canvas, panel, or board are generally as follows*:

11 x 14 = $1400

12 x 16 = $1650

16 x 20 = $2500

18 x 24 = $3000

24 x 30 = $5250

30 x 36 = $8000

* please keep in mind that this is subjective; prices can be higher or lower depending on what is agreed upon.

Lastly, I paint for personal creative growth and fulfillment, as well as to support myself.

Because I realize that this work will be of high emotional value for you, we want to get it right!  With each image I take on, I am simultaneously working to continue my own growth as an artist, and may suggest slight artistic deviations from the literal photo (don’t worry - I am talking primarily backgrounds; the subject, in my belief, must always exude the essence of that special, sentient being you love). As in the field of illustration, when I am granted a project, these details are all discussed ahead of time so that there are no surprises (at least no negative ones!).

If you are interested in discussing a commission of your horse, contact me through the contact form on my website, or email directly here. I will respond to all (reasonable) inquiries!