Portraits of Children
I have always been fascinated by portraiture. From a young age I was drawn to capturing ‘life’, creating paintings of family and friends before going on to study for a B.A. Hons in Art. For over 20 years I have worked as a professional portrait artist, specialising in animal portraiture while raising my own children. Now I am delighted to return to my roots and offer bespoke portraits of children, hand drawn in soft pastel from your favourite photographs.
As a mother, I am deeply aware of how quickly our precious girls and boys grow up. Childhood can feel fleeting — one moment they are tiny, the next they are racing ahead into independence. A carefully created child portrait painting transforms a simple photo into something lasting and tangible — a timeless reminder of their innocence, personality and unique spirit.
Whether you are looking for portraits of girls, portraits of boys, or a group portrait of siblings, I work closely with you to create something truly personal and meaningful.
Portraits of Girls in Pastel
Summer
Many clients commission me to create beautiful portraits of girls in pastel, capturing playful smiles, thoughtful expressions and those fleeting childhood moments. Commissioned by a grandmother, this painting became such a source of comfort and joy.
(The portrait) has just arrived and is beautiful.
(Sandra - Saffron Walden, Essex)
Pastel Portraits of Children
Molly
The age between two and three is such a rollercoaster — it really flies past! Yet it is also such an endearing time when children are full of charm and character.
Why I Love Working in Pastel
From the moment I first tried working in pastels as a 14-year-old I fell in love with the medium. Pastel has a remarkable ability to capture light, softly blend tones and portray delicate detail. The subtle layering of shades brings warmth and life to a child’s skin tones, while the gentle textures suit the innocence and freedom of childhood beautifully.
The lightness of pastel allows portraits of children to feel animated — almost as if they might step out of the frame at any moment.
Portraits of Boys
Charlie
Whilst we often cue children to “smile” for the camera, sometimes the off-guard moments are the most touching. This portrait captures the essence of my first son — thoughtful, gentle and completely himself.
Choosing the Right Size
For a simple head and shoulders child portrait, I recommend 8" by 10" or 10" by 12" inches. Once mounted and framed, this creates a perfect size for displaying your son or daughter’s portrait in a busy family home.
If you would like to include favourite clothing, toys or a little more of the setting, larger sizes such as 12" by 16" or 14" by 18" inches can work beautifully. I charge the same as my pet portraits for equivalent sizes — you can see my current pastel portrait prices here.
If you are unsure which size would suit best, I am always happy to advise.
Special Features & Backgrounds
Jamie
A favourite garment, toy or prop can bring a portrait to life. Jamie loved his hats — and I wanted to capture that delight and personality in this painting.
Personalised Details
You may wish to capture your child in a specific location, at home or enjoying a favourite activity. I can adjust clothing colours, simplify backgrounds, or subtly enhance elements so that the focus remains on your child’s expression.
It is also possible to include family pets — dogs, cats or rabbits — creating a truly bespoke portrait of your children together.
Group Portraits of Children
Claire’s Children
When I created this portrait, two of these lovely children had already flown the nest. Using separate photographs, I carefully brought them together into one cohesive and meaningful portrait.
Commissioning a Group Portrait
If you are commissioning a group portrait, each child can be referenced from different photographs and thoughtfully combined. It is often difficult to find one perfect image where everyone is looking the right way — so I work carefully to create harmony in clothing, colour and composition.
Commission a Portrait of Your Child
If you would like to commission a pastel portrait of your son, daughter or grandchildren, I would love to hear from you. You can send me your photographs and ideas using the contact form below, and I will guide you through the process step by step.
Creating portraits of children is a deeply personal and joyful experience for me, and it would be a privilege to create something truly special for your family.
I am always deeply touched by the kind words my clients share after receiving their portraits.
Ready to Begin?
If you would like to commission a portrait of your child, simply complete the form below and I will be in touch personally to discuss your ideas.
Contact Julie
• ask me a question by filling in this form
• Email your photos to find out which ones can become a portrait
• Feel free to ring me on (01243) 773123
• or commission a portrait here