Charcoal portrait guide / 7 minute read
How to Commission a Charcoal Portrait Online
Ordering a portrait online should still feel personal and clear. A good commission begins with the story behind the photograph, then turns practical: reference quality, size, deadline, number of subjects, payment, revisions, and safe delivery.
Section 01
1. Explain who the portrait is for
Begin with the purpose: a child's gift, an elder's memory, a couple portrait, a tribute piece, or a personal charcoal study. The purpose helps guide expression, crop, atmosphere, and the level of formality in the finished artwork.
Mention whether the date is fixed, whether the portrait is a surprise, and whether the artwork must remain private. Privacy requests should be agreed before the commission begins.
Section 02
2. Share the best available reference
Send a clear, unfiltered photograph with visible facial features and useful lighting. If the image is old or irreplaceable, send every version that may help: the original file, alternate angles, and other photographs that explain the person's appearance.
Fazal reviews the image before confirming whether it is suitable. This prevents a weak reference from becoming a disappointing portrait and creates an opportunity to choose a stronger photo while the commission is still being planned.
Section 03
3. Agree on A3 or A2, timing, and price
Portraits are drawn on Canson Scholar sheet in A3 or A2. The quote depends on the selected size, detail, deadline, number of subjects, and difficulty of the reference image.
A single-person A2 charcoal portrait usually takes about two weeks. Urgent work may be possible in about one week when the reference and schedule allow it. Confirm both the artwork deadline and delivery destination so courier time is not confused with drawing time.
Section 04
4. Confirm the commission with the advance
A 30% advance payment reserves the commission slot and allows the drawing to begin. The advance is not refundable after cancellation because studio time has been set aside and work may already be underway.
Keep the agreed brief simple and written: subject, approved reference, size, deadline, delivery city, privacy request, and any requested timelapse. This creates a shared point of reference during the commission.
Section 05
5. Review the completed portrait
Fazal informs the client when the portrait is complete. Up to five revisions are included for reasonable refinements based on the approved reference and brief. An HD scan can also be provided once the portrait is finished.
A timelapse can be made if requested in advance. If the portrait is a private gift or tribute, clarify whether the timelapse and final artwork may be shown publicly.
Section 06
6. Receive the original artwork safely
The commission includes the original artwork, not a frame. The finished sheet is rolled and packed carefully in a tube because courier services usually deny framed artwork.
Domestic and international delivery can be arranged through DHL. Once received, the client can choose a local framer whose materials and presentation fit the portrait and the room where it will be displayed.
Quick checklist
Before you send your inquiry.
- Purpose and recipient of the portrait
- Clear, unfiltered reference photo
- Preferred A3 or A2 size
- Number of subjects
- Required date and delivery city
- Privacy or surprise-gift request
- Timelapse request, if wanted
