I think most people are intimidated and not sure where to start or what to look for when trying to find an artist to draw a pencil portrait. To begin your search, do not limit yourself to just Google and Yahoo. Try the following search engines: addgoodsites.com, gowebguide.com, or portraitpaintingsbyartist.com. Your search terms should include; pencil portrait, pencil drawings, pencil sketches, and black and white pencil portraits.
It is important to visit several websites and view the artist's portfolios or galleries. Look and see if they have captured that special look. If they are drawing from a photograph, did they include some examples of photos along with the portraits? Compare the photo and portrait. Does the pencil portrait look like the photo?
Make sure the portrait is hand-drawn and not computer generated or at least know whether or not it is hand-drawn. Send the artist an e-mail and get to know him or her. Feel free to ask questions. Find out how long it will take to complete a portrait. It could take three to four weeks to finalize. Be sure to allow enough time. Let the artist know if it is for a special occasion and if it is needed by a certain date.
A critical factor in achieving that perfect portrait is the photograph the artist will work from. Most will accept photos in either black and white or in color. The photo should be clear and taken up close. The whites of the eyes should be visible. Candid shots usually are better than formal ones. They tend to capture the personality of the subject better. When choosing a picture of a child or pet, be sure it was taken at eye level. Photographs taken looking down on the subject are often distorted. If the photograph is sent by email, the resolution should be between 400 - 600 dpi. When sending the photograph by snail mail, be sure to send a copy of the original. No one wants anything to happen to the photograph, but mail sometimes gets lost or some unforeseen accident could occur. Protect that treasured photograph.
Another aspect to look for is the quality of materials. Acid Free paper is a must. It will no't yellow as time passes. Regular paper yellows quickly from exposure to light. Strathmore is a high quality acid free paper that many fine artists use. Graphite pencils are used in black and white pencil portraits.
Take a look at the payment policy. Look for artists that ask for two payments and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. The first payment is due when the portrait is started. The artist will then send a photo of the completed pencil portrait by email for approval before requiring the final payment and once payment is received, the portrait is shipped.
