Pricing & Ordering Information

Pricing Click here to view a currency converter.

Depending on the complexity of the subject matter and the size of the portrait, prices will vary. The following prices are representative of Hilary’s work in the past:

portrait in oil on hardboard (masonry board) (head, shoulders & hands), approximate size 83 cm x 59 cm (33 in. x 23 in.), ₤1800 sterling (or currency equivalent)
½ portrait in oil on hardboard (masonry board)(head & shoulders), approximate size 46 cm x 61 cm (18 in. x 24 in.), ₤1,000 sterling (or currency equivalent)
Depending on complexity, up to ₤500 sterling (or currency equivalent) for character indications or points of interest
Shipping (including any customs duties) and insurance are charged on a straight pass-through basis
An extra charge would be made for a rush request, assuming that Hilary can accommodate that request
In the “Portfolio,” there is a portrait of a beloved pet. Hilary will consider portrait possibilities other than of a single person, such as of a pet, perhaps a double portrait (such as a couple for their golden anniversary, an engagement or perhaps a mother & child), or a full length portrait (such as an infant baptismal portrait). Just because you don’t see what you want, doesn't mean that Hilary isn't open to the possibility! Please ask.

Photographic Session, Sitting & Pose

In order to obtain an agreed-upon price, please submit a photograph that you like. Hilary can paint from that photograph, with any requested changes, you can arrange for a photographic session yourself, Hilary can arrange for a photographic session, or a formal sitting can be scheduled. The more control you have over the photographic process, the more pleased you will be with the result! This is because you know what photographs of yourself you like; Hilary cannot make that choice for you.

Hilary has several requirements for suitable photographs

Keep in mind that with a live sitting, a model could never hold the same smile for hours on end. For that reason, the normal facial expression of the face at rest is what is required for a formal portrait – no big grins or toothy smiles, please!
The photograph must be in color and in clear focus. Multiple photographs in multiple angles are particularly helpful, as it gives Hilary the ability to compose a three-dimensional model.
Please advise Hilary what in particular you like or dislike about the photographs you choose. Do you look too old or too young? Do you not like the way your eyes are squinting? Would you prefer a different tie?
Hilary would like to see a scanned copy of the photographs to agree upon a price and timing, followed by mailing of the original photographs. The original photographs will be returned, unharmed, with the finished painting.
The original photographs must be at least 12 cm x 17 cm (5 in. x 7 in.). Depending on clarity, smaller photographs may be acceptable.

Payment:

A nonrefundable 10% deposit is required before any work is commenced (10% of the amount agreed upon with Hilary, based upon the specifics of your particular portrait).
When an agreement on the specifics has been reached, Hilary will send you an email to enable you to pay through PayPal in your local currency, by charging a credit card or giving your bank account details. Portraits by Hilary is a verified, secure merchant with paypal.com. When you make your payment through PayPal, you must specify pounds sterling as the payment currency. PayPal will charge your bank account or credit card in your local currency, based upon that day’s conversion rate, so you have no need to obtain pounds sterling or wire funds in a currency different than your own. Please click here to see a currency converter updated on a daily basis.
Once the portrait is completed and has had sufficient time to dry, Hilary will email a photograph of the portrait to you and will also email to you the amount remaining due and the costs for shipping and insurance. Payment of that balance will again be made through PayPal. Upon Hilary receiving notice from PayPal that you have paid the remaining amount due, plus shipping and insurance, Hilary will ship your portrait to you and will email tracking information for the carrier used (generally, DHL or Federal Express.)

Timing

Hilary generally is able to complete a portrait within three to four months, once the particulars have been agreed upon and the deposit paid.
Of course, the season of the year has an impact on timing. Christmas delivery, for example, may require a six-month lead-time. Hilary herself does all of the painting; she does not have any elves to help!

Shipping

Shipping will be via DHL or Federal Express.