What could be more fleeting than the dancing, giggling, effervescent whims of a seven year old girl ? Just try and get her to sit still . . .
Painting portraits of children isn't for the faint of heart, yet can be incredibly rewarding if they become part of the project. Shower them with attention and ask them to tell you their favorite stories while you paint. Pretty soon, you'll have more subject matter than you know what to do with. I like to set up a video camera on the back of my easel to record the entire session, about a half hour total. Later, I am able to freeze frame the best pose and continue from there.
Parents are an integral part of the process, and by involving them in the set up, you can alleviate the pressure of trying to perform for them while painting. Let them know ahead of time that they will be welcome to help during 'set up time', but ask them to give you some space when you begin to paint. It won't take much time for your subject to forget where they are, get lost in a story, and begin to act themselves. Then the magic begins . . .
If you have painted children, or would like to . . . then feel free to comment here . . . what techniques have you found to work best ? How do you keep the painting fresh and youthful ?
My paintings start at $500.00 (unframed) for a 14"x11" while above that, the size and price are negotiable according to time and budget . . .
