There’s something undeniably special about an oil portrait—it transforms a fleeting moment into a lasting work of art. But if you’ve ever considered commissioning one, you may have wondered: Where do I even start? The idea of having a painted portrait of your child is beautiful, but between choosing a photo, finding an artist, and navigating the process, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why I offer a full-service approach, handling every step from the initial photography to the finished, ready-to-hang heirloom. As a Raleigh, NC children and family photographer, I specialize in creating heirloom-quality mixed media oil portraits that capture childhood in a way that is both classic and artistic.

Step 1: The Photography Session – Capturing the Perfect Reference

The first step in creating a painted masterpiece is capturing the perfect reference image. Unlike traditional oil portraits, which require long sittings, I use a carefully planned photography session to create the foundation for the final painting. And I make it as easy as possible for parents—rather than bringing your child to a studio, I come to you for our Signature Studio Oil. And for our Garden Oil we will connect at a local area park. 

With 25 years of experience as a Raleigh children's portraiture artist, I’ve worked with every personality—from the shy and reserved to the endlessly energetic. I know how to create a relaxed, natural environment where kids feel comfortable being themselves. Whether it’s engaging them in playful conversation, giving them space to explore, or knowing when to step back and let a quiet moment unfold, I have the experience to bring out their true expressions—without forcing a pose. My goal is always to make the process stress-free for parents and enjoyable for children, so their portrait reflects who they truly are.

Step 2: Transforming the Image into a Work of Art

Once I’ve captured the perfect image, the real transformation begins. A mixed media oil portrait isn’t just a printed photo—it’s a carefully layered, hand-finished work of art. I start by refining the composition, ensuring the lighting and tones translate beautifully to a painterly style. Then, I blend digital painting techniques with traditional oil detailing, adding depth, softness, and texture that give the portrait its timeless feel. Every brushstroke is intentional, bringing out the delicate features and rich tones that make an oil portrait so special.

Step 3: The Finishing Touches – A Ready-to-Hang Heirloom

Unlike digital files that get lost in the shuffle of hard drives and cloud storage, these portraits are created to last for generations. Each one is printed on museum-grade canvas and then further enhanced with hand-applied oil finishes. The final piece is custom framed and delivered ready to hang, so there’s no extra work for busy parents.

Why Raleigh Moms Love This Full-Service Approach

For busy parents in Raleigh and beyond, the beauty of this process is that you don’t have to figure out a single step on your own—I am right beside you every step of the way. From planning the session to choosing the perfect frame, my goal is to make the experience seamless and enjoyable. You’ll walk away not just with a beautiful piece of art but with a stress-free, enjoyable experience that captures your child’s personality in a way no ordinary photograph can.

As a Raleigh, NC children and family photographer, I know how quickly childhood passes. If you’ve ever thought about turning a treasured moment into an heirloom portrait, this is your sign. Let’s create something beautiful together.