Portrait Painting Costs: How Much to Pay for a Custom Portrait

Portrait Painting Costs: How Much to Pay for a Custom Portrait
15 Oct, 2025
by Alaric Westcombe | Oct, 15 2025 | Painting | 0 Comments

Portrait Cost Estimator

Portrait Cost Calculator

Estimate your custom portrait painting cost based on medium, size, artist experience, and detail level.

This tool estimates costs based on the ranges provided in the article. Actual prices may vary depending on artist's location and specific materials used.

Estimated Cost

Base Price: NZ$0
Experience Premium (10%): NZ$0
Detail Surcharge (15%): NZ$0

Total Estimate: NZ$0

Note: These estimates are based on typical price ranges. Actual costs may vary depending on artist's experience, specific materials, and other factors.

For a reliable quote, provide reference photos, specify your requirements clearly, and ask for a written estimate before work begins.

When you think about commissioning a portrait painting is a custom artwork that captures a person’s likeness, usually on canvas, wood, or paper, the first question that pops up is the price tag. Unlike buying a ready‑made print, a portrait is a one‑off service, and the cost can swing wildly based on a handful of concrete factors. Below you’ll find everything you need to gauge a realistic budget, break down the money drivers, and avoid surprise fees.

Quick Takeaways

  • Typical price ranges: NZ$300‑$2,500 for small‑to‑medium oil or acrylic portraits; NZ$150‑$800 for watercolor or pencil work.
  • Key cost drivers: medium, size, artist experience, and detail level.
  • Getting a solid quote: provide reference photos, decide on a medium, and ask for a written estimate before any work starts.
  • Saving money tips: choose a less‑experienced local artist, opt for smaller dimensions, or go with a quicker‑drying medium like acrylic.

What Shapes the Price?

Think of a portrait commission as a small project with its own bill of materials and labor hours. The major variables are:

  • Medium - Oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil, charcoal, or mixed media each have distinct material costs and drying times.
  • Size - Larger canvases need more paint, a bigger support, and more time. A 30×40cm piece costs about half of a 60×80cm work.
  • Artist experience - An established artist with a strong portfolio typically commands higher rates than a talented newcomer.
  • Detail and style - Realistic, hyper‑realistic portraits demand more brushwork and glazing layers than a loose, impressionistic style.
  • Location and studio fees - Artists with a dedicated studio may add a small overhead for rent and utilities.

Medium‑by‑Medium Pricing Guide

Typical price ranges by medium (NZ$)
Medium Small (30×40cm) Medium (45×60cm) Large (60×80cm)
Oil 300‑600 800‑1,200 1,600‑2,500
Acrylic 250‑500 600‑1,000 1,200‑1,800
Watercolor 150‑300 350‑600 800‑1,200
Pencil/Charcoal 120‑250 300‑500 600‑900
Mixed Media 200‑400 500‑850 1,000‑1,500
Collage showing oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil, and mixed‑media portraits with size cues.

How to Request a Reliable Quote

Getting a transparent estimate is easier when you give the artist the right information up front. Follow these steps:

  1. Gather high‑resolution reference photos that show the face from multiple angles.
  2. Decide on medium, size, and whether you want a realistic or stylized approach.
  3. Ask the artist for a written breakdown that lists material costs, labor hours, and any extra fees (e.g., rush orders, framing).
  4. Clarify the payment schedule. Most artists ask for a 30‑50% deposit before starting, with the balance due on completion.
  5. Confirm the turn‑around time. Oil portraits can take 4‑8weeks, while acrylics often finish in 2‑4weeks.

If an artist is vague about any of these points, it’s a red flag. A professional will gladly provide a clear estimate and a simple contract.

Real‑World Cost Examples (2025)

Below are three recent commissions from New Zealand artists that illustrate how the variables play out.

  • Emma L., Wellington - 45×60cm oil portrait of a client’s grandmother. Artist’s 10‑year experience, realistic style. Total: NZ$1,200 (includes premium canvas and varnish).
  • Tom R., Auckland - 30×40cm watercolor of a family pet. Emerging artist, 2‑year portfolio. Total: NZ$280 (materials only, no framing).
  • Sophie K., Christchurch - 60×80cm mixed‑media portrait of a business executive. Mid‑career, uses gold leaf accents. Total: NZ$2,200 (includes custom frame).

These numbers line up with the table above, confirming that location within New Zealand doesn’t dramatically shift the base price-experience and medium do.

Ways to Stretch Your Budget

If the quoted figure feels steep, consider these practical tweaks:

  • Scale down the canvas. A 30×40cm work can cost half of a larger size while still delivering a striking result.
  • Choose acrylic over oil. Acrylic dries faster, uses cheaper pigments, and generally costs less.
  • Opt for a less‑detailed style. A semi‑abstract or impressionistic portrait reduces brushwork hours.
  • Hire a local art student or recent graduate. Many talented newcomers charge 30‑50% less while delivering professional‑grade work.
  • Skip framing initially. You can frame the piece later, spreading the expense.
Client and artist discussing a portrait commission with a cost calculator and contract on the table.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even seasoned buyers can fall into traps. Keep an eye out for these issues:

  • Hidden fees - Some artists charge extra for “premium” canvas, transport, or insurance. Ask for a full cost list.
  • Vague timelines - Without a clear deadline, a portrait can drag on for months. Insist on a delivery date in the contract.
  • Low‑ball offers - While a cheap price is tempting, it often means compromised materials or rushed work. Balance cost with quality.
  • No rights clarification - Confirm whether you’ll receive digital copies, reproduction rights, or exclusive ownership.

Having these questions answered up front protects both you and the artist.

Putting It All Together: Your Personal Cost Calculator

Use the following simple formula to estimate your own portrait budget:

Base price (from table) + (Size multiplier) + (Experience premium) + (Detail surcharge) = Estimated total

Example: You want a 45×60cm acrylic portrait from an artist with 5‑year experience (10% premium) and a realistic style (15% surcharge).

  • Base price (medium, medium size) = NZ$600
  • Experience premium = 600×0.10 = NZ$60
  • Detail surcharge = 600×0.15 = NZ$90
  • Estimated total = NZ$750

This quick math helps you set expectations before you even send the first email.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a portrait commission usually take?

The timeline depends on medium and size. Oil portraits often need 4‑8weeks to dry between layers, while acrylic works can be finished in 2‑4weeks. Adding a rush fee can shave a week or two, but expect higher costs.

Do I own the rights to my portrait?

Ownership varies. Most artists grant you full ownership of the physical piece but retain copyright for reproduction. If you need prints or digital copies, ask for a written rights extension.

Can I combine different mediums in one portrait?

Yes, mixed‑media portraits are popular. An artist might start with a charcoal sketch, layer watercolor washes, and finish with acrylic highlights. Mixed media usually adds a 15‑25% premium because of extra materials and complexity.

Is a deposit refundable if I change my mind?

Standard practice is a non‑refundable deposit (30‑50% of the total) once the artist begins work. If you cancel before any work starts, many artists will refund the deposit. Always verify the refund policy before paying.

What’s the best way to choose an artist?

Start by reviewing portfolios. Look for consistency in the style you want, read client testimonials, and check for clear pricing policies. A short trial sketch (often offered for a modest fee) can also gauge compatibility before committing to a full piece.

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