Live Sitting vs. Photograph: What’s Best When Commissioning a Portrait?

Live Sitting vs. Photograph – Which is Best for Your Portrait?

When it comes to commissioning a portrait, one of the first questions people ask is: Do I need to sit for it in person, or can the artist work from a photograph?

The good news? Both methods can produce stunning, heirloom-quality portraits. The right choice depends on your goals, timeline, and personal preference.

After 30 years in the portrait commission business, New South Portraits has helped countless families, judges, institutions, and legacy clients decide which option fits their project best. Here’s what you need to know to make the right choice.

What Is a Live Sitting?

A live sitting involves the subject being physically present while the artist sketches, studies, or paints them in real time. Some artists complete the entire work live, while others combine a sitting with reference photography.

Best For:

• Clients who want a highly personalized or intimate experience

• Institutions commissioning formal or ceremonial portraits

• Subjects who enjoy connecting with the artist

Benefits:

• More interaction between artist and subject

• Greater chance to capture subtle expression, energy, or essence

• Creates a memorable experience for the sitter

Things to Consider:

• Requires scheduling and travel (by you or the artist)

• Multiple sittings may be needed

• Can be time-consuming or tiring for young children or busy professionals

What Is a Photo-Based Portrait?

This is the most common method today. The artist works from one or more high-resolution photos provided by the client, either taken professionally or selected from a personal archive.

Best For:

• Projects with a deadline or travel limitations

• Posthumous portraits

• Gifting situations where the subject can’t sit in person

• Families with young children or pets

Benefits:

• Extremely convenient

• Faster turnaround times in many cases

• Ideal for multiple subject portraits or recreating a special memory

Things to Consider:

• Requires a clear, high-quality image with natural lighting and true likeness

• Less personal interaction between subject and artist

• Some emotional nuance may be more challenging to convey

What the Best Artists Do

At the highest levels of portraiture, artists are masters at bringing photos to life. Many prefer to work from professional photography, allowing them to focus on expression, composition, and craftsmanship without the constraints of scheduling.

Some artists, especially classical realists, offer both options and blend them seamlessly. They may begin with photographs and invite the subject to a brief sitting for color, texture, or gesture accuracy.

The important thing? Choose an artist experienced in your preferred method. Not all artists excel equally in both approaches.

Still Unsure? Here's My Advice:

If you’re:

• Commissioning a legacy piece for a judge, donor, or university: Live sitting can add gravitas.

• Gifting a surprise portrait to a spouse or loved one: Photo-based is the way to go.

• Memorializing someone special: Photo reference is the only option, and we guide you in choosing the best image.

• Working within a tight schedule or budget: Photo-based will offer more flexibility.

Let Me Help You Decide

With the experience and expertise of New South Portraits,  I help you choose the right artist for your unique needs. Whether you're leaning toward a photo reference or envisioning a full live sitting experience, I’ll guide you through the options, timelines, and next steps.

You get white glove service from inquiry to installation—at no added cost to you.