"Repeatable" Portraits

[Michael Georges]

Mike:

Reason #1 is that I cannot get anyone to want to pose as crowning themselves....which is really unfortunate as it would make a great portrait! "When I rule the world..."

Reason #2 I think is largely due to the client's expectation. They often want a very specific look - the male wants to look successful, the female wants to look beautiful, and parent's often want children in idealistic settings more often than not, wearing nice clothes.

Reason #3 Little girls just look good in white dresses with bare feet. It is a bit like a piano standard - everyone wants to have at least one of those in their portfolio because they are just darn attractive and hit both the "expectation" and the "beauty" requirements.

My 2c.

[Michele Rushworth]

the male wants to look successful, the female wants to look beautiful

In my experience, the men also want to look beautiful and the women want to look succesful, too!

[Stanka Kordic]

Interesting topic Mike.

Yes, I do believe the term 'portrait' comes with certain expectations. In my opinion, the client often has an idea in mind, then goes in search of the artist that comes close. Rare is it to come across individuals that are totally open to whatever crazy idea the artist has in mind. They want to see most of the face, pretty smile, distinguished pose..all the points you mentioned. Oh, heavens, and we must have the likeness.

Personally, although most of my families were a joy to work with, it became exhausting to convince them to try something different, which I desperately need to be engaged in the project. For example, asking them to stand in a rose bush

I'm moving on a bit. Not saying no to commissions, but not actively seeking them out either.

Hope I'm not being too negative.
Go for what inspires you.

Cheers,
Stanka

[Michael Georges]

Well and I certainly did not want to come off as sexist with my comments, so yes I think we can say that everyone generally wants to look beautiful and successful.