6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Live Portrait Artist

Elly Bazigos
Jan 24
2 min read

So, you want to delight and entertain your guests with live portrait illustrations? But there's lots of artists to choose from? Here are some things to consider to make sure you book the right live portrait artist for you and your event!

Can They Draw Families?

I offer A5 portraits and up to 5 people per painting - perfect for creating special family memories. I love doing live family portraits, and I can use my artist magic to paint children smiling and posing nicely even if they can't actually stand still for the photo!

Live portrait of two adults and three kids. — Live guest portrait of a sweet family at a wedding

Do They Have Experience Drawing People of Colour?

I feel really strongly about this one! A lot of artists fall into the trap of only drawing white people - it’s important for artists to show their proficiency in drawing different demographics, to make sure guests from all backgrounds feel celebrated.

Man in a tuxedo holds a live drawing of himself labelled "Sean."

3. What Does Their Live Portrait Set-Up Look Like?

Do they have a banner on display? Do they need a table? How will they display their work? I either use a string and pegs or a wire standing display. No big banners, and all I need is a table and chair! I will always discuss this with my clients in advance so they know what to expect, or we can come up with the best way to display artwork and myself for their venue and event theme.

Lit table with a lamp, art supplies, a wooden box, and a sign reading "Get your LIVE PORTRAIT here!" in front of a curtain backdrop. — My trusty tabletop easel!

Do They Prioritise Faces or Fashion Live Portraits?

My passion is in capturing likenesses in guests faces in live portraits. And if you're the same, I offer A6 portraits that focus on faces and upper bodies. But A5 live portraits are best for showing off fashion and your guests' beautiful outfit! It's good to discuss your priorities with your guest portrait artist, so they can work at your event with intention.

photo of couple at a black tie party, posing for a live guest portrait — Charlie and Jemima, from a Christmas party

Live painted watercolor of a man in a tuxedo holding a wine glass and a woman in a purple dress. Text reads "Charlie & Jemima." Mood is elegant. — Their A6 live portrait!

Can they Customize?

Can they add a custom background, logo or splash of colour to match your event? These little touches make a world of difference! I offer all of these options. Just let me know!

Man in tuxedo with polka-dot bow tie holds a live drawing of himself and his partner in a live painted portrait at a wedding. — Custom background for Saif and Anah's wedding - archways inspired by the venue!

How Quick are Their Live Portraits?

I take around 8 minutes per person A5, or I offer even speedier A6 portraits, at 6 mins per person - so I can do 10 portraits per hour! This will vary of course, especially depending on complexity of guest outfits, but it's important to gauge how many portraits you'd like to provide at your event. For wedding I take a VIP list from clients to make sure the most important guests are guaranteed a live portrait.