Portrait Commission Cost Guide – Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve ever wanted a hand‑painted portrait, the first question usually is: "How much will it cost?" The answer isn’t a flat number. Prices shift based on size, medium, artist experience, and the details you ask for. Knowing the key factors helps you set a realistic budget and get a piece you love without hidden surprises.

What Determines the Price?

Size and format. A small head‑shot on canvas can start around £200‑£300, while a full‑body piece over three feet tall often pushes past £1,500. Bigger surfaces need more paint, more time, and sometimes a larger studio.

Medium. Oil paints are pricier because they dry slowly and require more layers. Acrylics or water‑based media are cheaper and dry faster, so a portrait in acrylic might be 20‑30% less expensive than the same size in oil.

Artist reputation. A seasoned portraitist with a gallery presence will charge more than a talented newcomer. Look at their portfolio, client reviews, and how long they’ve been in the business. A higher fee often means reliable technique and fewer revisions.

Detail level. Highly realistic portraits that capture every wrinkle and hair strand need more time. Simpler, stylized or impressionistic works cost less because the artist can work faster and use broader strokes.

Additional services. Framing, shipping, or a private studio visit add to the total. Some artists include these in the quote, others bill them separately.

How to Get the Best Value

Start by defining your budget early. Tell the artist the maximum you can spend and ask what size or medium fits that range. Most portrait studios, like Renaissance Harmony Hub Agency, will suggest options that meet your price point.

Ask for a detailed estimate before any work begins. A good quote breaks down costs for canvas, paint, labor, and any extras. This transparency protects you from surprise fees later.

Consider a smaller preliminary sketch or study. Many artists offer a cheaper charcoal or pencil sketch that you can later upgrade to a full‑color painting. It’s a way to test style without committing to a large expense.

Give clear, high‑quality reference photos. The better the reference, the less time the artist spends guessing proportions or lighting, which can shave hours off the project and lower the price.

Plan the timeline. Rush orders often carry a premium of 25‑50% for expedited work. If you can wait a few weeks or months, you’ll save money.

Finally, read reviews and talk to past clients. A slightly higher fee from an artist with a track record of on‑time delivery and satisfaction is usually worth it compared to a bargain‑price artist who might miss deadlines or need many revisions.

At Renaissance Harmony Hub Agency we specialize in matching clients with the right portraitist for their budget and artistic vision. Whether you’re after a classic oil portrait or a modern acrylic piece, we help you navigate pricing, negotiate contracts, and manage the whole commission process so you can focus on enjoying the finished artwork.

Bottom line: portrait commission cost isn’t a mystery. By understanding size, medium, artist skill, and extra services, you can set a clear budget and find the perfect artist without unexpected surprises. Happy painting!