Are you looking to commission a portrait painting from a photo — either as a meaningful gift or a lasting artwork for your home or office?
A hand-painted portrait is more than decoration. It preserves personality, emotion, and presence in a way no digital image ever can. Whether it is a single portrait, a family composition, or a romantic memory from a special moment, a custom portrait painting transforms a photograph into a timeless original.
With over 25 years of professional experience as a portrait artist and scenic painter, I create custom oil and acrylic portraits for private and international clients worldwide.
A heartfelt digital portrait of two boys, showcasing the artist Nikolaus Kriese’s skill in capturing emotion and personality through vibrant, detailed artwork, available for international commissions.
1. How to Commission a Portrait Painting
Commissioning a portrait painting is straightforward and fully guided.
First, we clarify:
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The subject and composition
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Background and atmosphere
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Size and format
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Preferred style (realistic, expressive, contemporary)
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Medium (oil or acrylic)
You then send your photo reference by email. A free and non-binding consultation ensures clarity before the painting begins.
Depending on complexity, completion usually takes 2–6 weeks.
Throughout the process, you may follow the development of your painting via email updates.
The finished portrait is stretched on a professional wooden stretcher frame and ready to hang. Framing options are available upon request. Secure worldwide shipping is included for international commissions.
A vibrant family portrait painting by Nikolaus Kriese, depicting four smiling family members and their dog outdoors, showcasing his artistic talent and attention to detail.
2. Your Advantages When Working with a Commissioned Portrait Artist
Choosing a professional portrait painter ensures:
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A one-of-a-kind, hand-painted artwork
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Careful interpretation of character and expression
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High-quality, lightfast pigments
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Premium canvas and materials
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Long-lasting durability
Every commissioned portrait is created in my studio using proven techniques and carefully selected materials designed to last for generations.
This commissioned artwork by Nikolaus Kriese features a cheerful couple smiling in an outdoor setting, capturing their happiness with vivid colors and detailed brushwork. The piece is available for worldwide shipping, perfect for personal or gift col.
3. Choosing the Right Style and Technique
When you commission a portrait painting, you may select from various techniques:
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Classic oil painting
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Modern acrylic painting
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Mixed-media approaches
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Canvas or solid panel supports
The technique influences depth, surface structure, and visual impact.
This is a highly detailed grayscale portrait, created by Nikolaus Kriese. The painting highlights her elegant attire, pearl necklace, and a brooch, emphasizing her regal presence. The artwork is displayed on an easel, indicative of a professional studio setting, and is available for worldwide shipping. An excellent addition for royal portrait collectors and art enthusiasts.
4. Why Oil Painting Is Often the Preferred Choice
Oil painting has been refined over centuries and remains the superior medium for portrait commissions.
Oil allows:
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Subtle blending and natural skin tones
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Layered depth and luminosity
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Extended working time
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Exceptional longevity
Masters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer relied on oil for its unmatched expressive range — and today it remains ideal for high-end commissioned portraits.
Each oil portrait is hand-painted with careful attention to detail, resulting in a vibrant, durable, and timeless artwork.
Unique commissioned family portrait artwork by Nikolaus Kriese, capturing joyful moments for worldwide delivery.
5. Commissioning a Portrait from a Photo
A portrait from a photograph requires more than copying an image. It involves artistic interpretation.
As a commissioned portrait artist, I focus not only on likeness but on capturing:
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Expression
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Atmosphere
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Character
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Emotional presence
Available portrait types include:
Single Portrait – One person
Double Portrait – Two individuals (e.g., wedding or couple portrait)
Group Portrait – Families, teams, or corporate compositions
Each portrait is carefully composed to ensure balance, proportion, and visual harmony.
A cheerful woman in front of a colorful landscape painting by Nikolaus Kriese, depicting mountains, river, and sky at sunset, illustrating his talent in creating detailed, vibrant artworks shipped worldwide.
6. Full-Body or Half-Length Portrait?
Your reference image can be interpreted in various ways.
Full-Body Portrait
Depicts the entire figure and incorporates posture, perspective, and background context.
Half-Length Portrait
Focuses on the upper body and face, offering intimacy and strong emotional presence. This is one of the most popular formats for commissioned portraits.
Lighting, perspective, and composition significantly influence the final atmosphere of the painting. These elements are discussed during consultation to ensure the artwork fits your vision and space.
Commission Your Custom Portrait Painting
If you are looking for a professional artist to create a personalized portrait painting from your photo, I invite you to get in touch.
Send your reference image and desired size, and receive a free consultation for your custom portrait commission.
Original fine art.
Hand-painted in the studio.
International commissions welcome.
Worldwide shipping available.
