FAQs

Each style is its own approach to the same idea; a portrait built to be lived with and cherished for generations to come.

• Studio Elegance is shot in the studio and digitally painted for a refined, painterly quality.
• Studio Monochromatic is black and white studio portraiture, built around intentional lighting, deep shadows, and deliberate composition.
• Environmental Portraits move outside the studio entirely, captured in Austin's most beautiful natural and architectural settings.

All three can be explored on the Beautiful Portraits pages.

It's the flagship offering at Slade Portraits. A portrait that goes beyond the photograph entirely. After your image is digitally painted, James hand-finishes select pieces using acrylic gels and water-mixable oil paints directly on the printed canvas, creating something closer to a painting than a photograph. No two are ever exactly alike. Embellishments are only available for Studio Elegance and Environmental portraits.

It's an upgrade, not an automatic inclusion. Embellishment is available as an option on Studio Elegance and Environmental portraits for clients who want to take their piece even further. It is not offered for Studio Monochromatic portraits.

This is where everything begins. Before any commitments are made, you'll meet with James in person to walk through the entire process, including styling, clothing selection, color schemes, themes, and what to expect on the day of your commission. It's also your opportunity to ask questions and share exactly what you're hoping to create.

The design consultation typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour.

After your commission, you'll schedule a separate Image Reveal appointment. This is when you'll see your final images for the first time and have the opportunity to purchase wall art, albums, gift prints, and hand-embellished canvas pieces.

Professional hair and makeup is available as an add-on. It's not automatically included in every commission, but it can be arranged as part of your design consultation if you'd like the full experience.

A studio commission typically takes an hour.

Yes. While Slade Portraits is based in Austin, TX, Environmental commissions can take place anywhere — including beautiful or meaningful locations outside the area. A travel fee may apply depending on distance.

Most clients book their commission 1–2 months in advance. Booking early gives time for a proper design consultation and ensures your preferred date is available.

Your commission results in a curated selection of images for you to choose from. Physical prints and artwork, including any hand-embellished pieces, are purchased separately based on what you select. A web-sized digital file is provided for any print you purchase, intended for your personal use. Digital files are not sold as a standalone product.

It depends on the product. Standard prints are typically ready sooner, while hand-embellished mixed media pieces take longer, since each one is finished by hand. James will give you a clear timeline for your specific piece during your Image Reveal. Once ready, James personally delivers your final pieces directly to your home.

Not at all. Every part of the experience, from posing guidance to styling, is handled during your commission. The design consultation beforehand is built specifically to make sure you feel comfortable and prepared well before the day arrives.