Portrait Painting Price: What You Really Pay for a Custom Portrait

When you think about portrait painting price, the cost of having a skilled artist capture a person’s likeness on canvas. Also known as custom portrait cost, it’s not just about paying for time—it’s paying for observation, technique, and emotional accuracy. A good portrait doesn’t just look like someone. It feels like them. That’s why prices vary so much—from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands.

The biggest factors? artist experience, how long they’ve trained and exhibited their work. Also known as professional portrait artist, those with gallery representation or decades of practice charge more because they’ve proven they can deliver depth, realism, and presence. Then there’s portrait size, the physical dimensions of the finished piece. Also known as canvas size for portraits, a small 8x10 inch painting takes less time and material than a life-sized 36x48 inch oil portrait. Materials matter too. Linen canvas, high-grade oil pigments, and varnishes cost more than student-grade supplies—and artists who use them expect to be paid for quality.

Location plays a role. Artists in major cities like New York or London often charge more than those in smaller towns, not because they’re better, but because their overhead is higher. Some artists charge by the hour, others by the project. A beginner might charge $200 for a simple head-and-shoulders sketch. A seasoned artist might ask $3,000 for a full-body oil portrait with detailed background work.

Don’t assume the most expensive option is the best. Look at portfolios. Does the artist capture skin tones naturally? Do their subjects look alive, not stiff? Check reviews. Ask how many portraits they’ve completed. Many artists offer package deals—two sittings, one revision, free shipping. Others include digital proofs before painting begins. That’s worth paying extra for.

And yes, digital portraits exist too. But if you want texture, depth, and the kind of presence that makes people stop and stare in a living room, nothing beats a hand-painted oil portrait. That’s the real value. You’re not buying a photo. You’re buying a legacy.

Below, you’ll find real advice from artists who’ve priced their work, buyers who’ve paid for portraits, and guides that break down exactly what you’re getting for your money. Whether you’re commissioning your first portrait or just curious about the art market, these posts give you the facts—no fluff, no hype, just what matters.