One of the most frequent questions I receive is whether I work from photographs or ‘from-life’. The simple answer is both! I have no preference. There are positives and negatives to each approach. Let’s explore the differences…

Working Methods

For portrait commissions, I adapt my techniques based on various factors:

• Utilising client-provided photographs
• Integrating multiple photographs to conceptualise and refine a single image
• Capturing reference images through my own photography
• Conducting live sittings, where I work ‘from-life’ with the subject present

Understanding the Difference

The distinction between working from photographs and ‘from-life’ lies in the source of inspiration and the session’s dynamic. Working from photographs offers convenience and flexibility, allowing me to capture specific details and compositions precisely. Conversely, ‘from-life’ sessions enable a more organic interaction, resulting in portraits infused with vitality and immediacy.

Check out this quick time-lapse of a 60 minute portrait I made ‘From-life’ HERE.

Comparing ‘From-Life’ and Photograph-Based Portraits

The debate over whether paintings ‘from-life’ surpass those from photographs is multifaceted. ‘From-life’ portraits can capture light, shadow, and expression nuances more authentically (not necessarily more accurately). Photograph-based paintings offer efficiency and accessibility. Ultimately, the artwork’s quality hinges on the artist’s skill, vision, and ability to translate their subject’s essence onto canvas. Personally I do not believe portraits ‘from-life’ make better paintings than those from photos providing that attention to energy, form and light are considered.

Choosing the Right Approach

Deciding whether to have your portrait painted from life or from photographs depends on various factors, including scheduling constraints, personal preferences, and artistic objectives. ‘From-life’ sessions offer a unique experience and a deeper connection between artist and subject, while photograph-based portraits provide convenience and accommodate diverse scheduling needs.

In my practice, I strive to combine the best of both worlds by leveraging photographs’ advantages and infusing portraits with the vitality and authenticity from live sittings. By tailoring my approach to each client’s preferences and project requirements, I aim to create portraits that resonate deeply and authentically capture the individual’s essence.