How it Works

Commissioning a portrait is a collaboration. My goal is to make that process as seamless and enjoyable as the final piece itself. It starts with a conversation. You can fill out the contact form or email me directly, telling me a bit about who you would like painted and the size you have in mind. We can discuss the mood, the clothing, and where the painting will live in your home.

Reference Photos

A great painting starts with a great photograph. Since I paint primarily from photos to ensure the most accurate likeness, we will work together to select the perfect reference image. You can either send me a selection of your favorite photos with clear lighting (preferably natural) and high resolution, or if you’re local to Calgary, I can offer a brief photography sitting to capture the perfect reference shot for an additional fee.

Realistic oil portrait of a small boy wearing a blue cable knit sweater and a baby girl wearing a pink onesie, painted on canvas by Brandy Mahaney
A young child with curly hair smiling while seated in a car seat, wearing a Mickey Mouse themed outfit.
A young child with blue eyes and light brown hair sitting in a car seat with a surprised or curious expression, holding a blue and green sippy cup.

What’s Next?

Once we have decided on the size and reference image, I will send you a formal quote and timeline. To secure your spot in my studio schedule, a 50% non-refundable deposit is required. Current turnaround time is approx. 3 to 8 weeks.

I’ll share a preliminary sketch with you to ensure you are happy with the layout, then I’ll begin using professional grade oil paints on archival, gallery stretched canvas.

I use a technique called glazing that requires drying time between layers to achieve depth and luminosity.

When the painting is near completion, I will send you a digital photo for final approval. Once you are happy with the result, the remaining 50% balance is due.

Please note that oil paintings require adequate drying time before they can be safely varnished and transported. For clients in Calgary, I offer personal delivery or studio pickup. For international or out of town clients, shipping is arranged at an additional cost.

Realistic oil portrait of a woman with a small boy on her lap, a mother and son, painted on canvas by Brandy Mahaney
A family portrait with two adults and three children inside a room, with a window showing trees in the background. The woman is sitting on a wooden rocking chair, and the man is standing behind her. The children are sitting on or near the woman's lap. The scene has vintage, slightly faded colors.
Realistic oil portrait of a young girl with her horse, painted on canvas by Brandy Mahaney
A young woman with closed eyes and pink nails gently touching a horse's nose.
Realistic oil portrait of a woman in a white dress shirt with paint on her hands, painted on canvas by Brandy Mahaney
Woman lying on a white surface with paint-stained hands and shirt, making a playful face with her tongue out and eyes crossed.
Realistic oil portrait of a man in a white T shirt with a silly expression on his face, painted on canvas by Brandy Mahaney
A man with one eye winking, a sticker on his forehead that reads 'JIMMY', wearing a white T-shirt, smiling with a playful expression.
“Art must be an expression of love or it is nothing.”
— Marc Chagall
A painting of a woman with short brown hair hugging a young boy with blonde hair, set on an easel. The scene includes painting supplies like brushes and a palette with mixed colors, paper towels, and a small cup of red paint on a table.