Mary E. Challinor

For many years I was a science and medical illustrator and a graphic designer. Fifteen years ago, I gave up that work and after studying painting and eventually portraiture, I began my career as a painter.

My Portrait work process involves photographing the subject in their own home for a painting, or for a drawing either in their home or mine. If the photographs are to be in the home of the sitter, I require a visit to scout locations and available natural light. In addition, I require a consultation, preferably in person, of the clothing choices.  I then photograph the sitter for about an hour. Small children obviously cannot concentrate that long, so they are photographed in about 30 minutes.

After the photographs are taken between 3 and 5 prints are sent to the client. The client chooses the photograph that they want to be the primary pose and facial expression. Size and medium are confirmed at this time as well. A deposit is collected at the time the portrait is begun. Final payment is due upon delivery.

While most of my Landscapes are not commissioned in advance, when they are the same process takes place as with the portraits above. Photographs are taken and then the client chooses among a few for the primary image to be used in the landscapes. Size and shape are agreed upon, and a deposit is collected at the time the painting is begun. Final payment is due on completion.