This is probably the most difficult question to answer, since
many different factors can affect the cost of a picture.
A. Is the picture color or black and white? Color usually
takes longer to produce and involves more variables.
B. How big is the picture? Both artists generally work
in the range of 8.5" by 11" to 18" by 24"; the larger the piece,
the greater the price.
C. Does the picture have a background? Backgrounds add
complexity and time to the production of the picture. If the
background is complicated (e. g., complex architecture, environmental
lighting effects, severe perspective or additional characters),
this will add to the cost of the picture.
D. How many characters are in the pictures and what are
they doing or wearing? Just one standing character in blue
jeans and a white T-shirt will cost less than a couple doing
a waltz in Victorian ballroom dress.
E. Are there any props or vehicles in the picture? Vehicles
can greatly increase the time it takes to complete the picture.
On top of that, they usually require research time on the part
of the artist before even beginning the final piece. This becomes
even more acute if a specific vehicle (e. g., your own automobile)
is to appear in the picture.
F. Does the artist need additional equipment, supplies,
or vendors? Greater costs are incurred if it is necessary
to buy or rent anything beyond the usual materials required
to complete the picture. This may include hiring or contracting
outside sources (such as but not limited to hiring models, photographers,
graphic designers or service bureaus) or the expense of travel
to a location to collect reference materials specific to the
commission.
G. How much control over the execution of the picture does
the artist have? Exercising close, rigid control over every
line we draw will incur additional charges, since this is a
very slow and awkward way to produce art.
