We would preferably begin the process with an informal meeting where we can discuss any ideas/thoughts for the project. This also serves as an invaluable opportunity for me to get an insight of the sitter’s character. During the session, I would make a few planning sketches and/or take many reference photos to capture the right moment for the painting. When I feel I have adequate reference materials, I would prepare a few composition ideas for further discussion and we would then fine-tune the ideas via emails until the client is satisfied with the final reference for me to work from.

However, for clients that are based overseas or cannot commit the time for a physical meeting, I would request that they send me their high-quality photos which must have good light, contrast and clarity as reference materials.