Collector notes · Kimberly Marnell Art
Commission a painting from photos: what to prepare
November 13, 2026 · From the Kimberly Marnell Art studio
A painting commission begins with a person, a place, a pet or an idea you want to spend more time with. Clear references help turn that starting point into a useful conversation with the artist.
Choose a subject and a few useful references
Start with what you want the painting to hold: a particular expression, a familiar place or the character of an animal you love. Choose a small group of clear photographs rather than sending everything at once. Explain which image is the main reference and what you like about the others.
A reference can help communicate a face, pose or color without prescribing every mark in the finished painting. If you want a combination of elements, describe that request plainly. Only share photographs you own or have permission to use, and obtain the subject’s permission where appropriate.
Decide where the painting will live
Measure the available space and consider the orientation: portrait, landscape or square. A photograph of the wall can help explain the setting, but it does not replace measurements. Include any framing allowance and mention whether the painting is intended as a gift.
You can also share color references. A fabric swatch, room photograph or a note about colors you enjoy gives the artist context. Ask which details can be coordinated and which decisions are part of the artist’s interpretation. Interior designers can use the designer booking page to organize a project around the room.
Discuss the scope and price before work begins
Kimberly’s commission planner provides guided choices for the subject and size. Its published starting rates are $2.50 per square inch for pets and places, and $3.00 per square inch for people. For example, a 16 × 20 inch pet portrait starts at $800 before any agreed extras. Confirm the final scope, materials, framing, delivery and any additional charges before booking.
The planner offers a 50% deposit to begin. A written agreement should confirm what you are commissioning and the applicable cancellation terms. Read the returns and commission policy, and ask questions while the project is still being defined.
Give a real date, not an assumed deadline
If the painting is for a birthday, anniversary or another event, tell Kimberly the date at the beginning. Production, drying, framing and shipping can affect the schedule. Ask for confirmation before purchasing on the assumption that a deadline can be met.
Use finished work to explain your preferences
You can point to Queen of the Night for its botanical portrait and soft washes, or Golden Hour for its vivid color and flowing figure. Explain what you respond to rather than asking for a duplicate of a one-of-a-kind work. If an existing painting already feels right, you can also collect an available original.