Here is an example of how a portrait begins and where it ends.

People send me pictures. Sometimes just a few, but the more pictures the better, really. Here is a lovely one:

This couple has a boat named the Spirit Walker. They take it out sailing all the time and participate in races. Peggy sent me a few pictures of herself and Vern, as well as their boat and dogs. Here is the sketch I created for them:

After emailing the sketch and getting approval from the client, I move into the final color stage. Here is the final result:

Easy, right?

This couple loves to go camping. This is a candid “photograph” of one of their trips.

This is an example of a “Value Portrait,” which will get you Cordialized but at a lower price point. It’s a 5″x7″ with characters only, no background.
This portrait was commissioned as a present for this couple. I was told the lady really likes crows and her red Chuck Taylors, and that their cats are loving best friends.