How Much Do Portrait Painters Charge?

Thinking about getting a portrait painted but not sure what it will cost? You’re not alone. Prices can swing wildly, but knowing the main factors keeps you from surprise invoices.

Typical price ranges

In the UK, a beginner‑level portrait (small, simple acrylic or oil) usually starts around £150‑£300. Mid‑level artists with a solid portfolio charge £300‑£800 for a standard head‑and‑shoulders piece about 30 × 40 cm. Established painters who handle larger works, custom backgrounds, or very detailed realism can ask anywhere from £800 to £3,000+, especially for life‑size canvases.

If you want a quick sketch or a digital portrait, the cost drops to £80‑£200. Conversely, a hyper‑realistic oil that takes weeks of layered glazing may push the price past £5,000.

What drives the price?

Medium: Oil is generally pricier than acrylic or watercolor because of material costs and longer drying times. Size and detail: Bigger canvases and more complex backgrounds need more paint, time, and labor. Artist experience: A well‑known portraitist builds a reputation, so they charge more. Location: Artists in major cities like London often have higher rates to cover studio rent.

Other hidden costs include framing, shipping, and any extra revisions after the first draft. Some painters include a single round of tweaks in their fee; others bill per hour for changes.

When you read an artist’s portfolio, look for clues: do they list a “starting price” or do they ask you to request a quote? Transparent studios usually give a baseline price and then adjust based on your specifics.

One useful tip is to prepare a clear brief. Include the size you want, the medium you prefer, whether you need a background, and how many people will be in the portrait. The more details you give up front, the more accurate the quote you’ll receive.

Don’t forget to ask about the timeline. A fast‑track commission (delivery in two weeks) often adds a 20‑30% premium. If you can wait a few months, you’ll likely save some cash.

Finally, compare a few artists before committing. Look at recent works, read client testimonials, and check if they offer a contract that outlines payment milestones – usually a 30% deposit, 40% midway, and the balance on delivery.

Bottom line: portrait painter fees depend on medium, size, detail, experience, and urgency. By understanding these variables and providing a solid brief, you can get a fair price and a piece you’ll love for years.