Custom Realistic Pencil Portraits
I turn your favorite photos into detailed graphite and charcoal portraits. From solo faces to family groups, I focus on every wrinkle and reflection to make your memories look real.
This is a full-length portrait sketch of a client, drawn on A3 size paper. I used pencil to carefully render the delicate fabric of her dress and the fine details of her jewelry, creating a graceful and realistic final artwork.
For this A4 size commissioned sketch, I used a mix of graphite and charcoal on Brustro mixed media paper. The charcoal powder was particularly effective for creating the soft, flowing texture of the clothing, contrasting with the detailed graphite work on the face.
This large A1 size sketch was a commission from a client in Bangalore. It was a challenging yet satisfying piece, especially the intricate, flowing hair. I used graphite and charcoal on Fabriano Academia paper to capture the child's curious expression.
A work-in-progress shot of an A3 size couple portrait commission. Here, you can see one face is fully rendered with realistic shading and detail, while the other is just beginning to take shape from the initial outline.
This time-lapse shows the creation of a paid commission work. Starting from a simple outline, I build up layers of shading to create a realistic portrait of the client, paying close attention to details like the glasses and beard.
About Custom Portraits: Graphite & Charcoal
Before you place an order, make sure your reference photo is high-resolution. I use the grid method to ensure perfect facial proportions, but this process relies heavily on clarity in your original image to capture micro-details like eye reflections or skin texture. If you have a group photo with uneven lighting, I can merge individual shots, but let us chat first to ensure the contrast levels match for a balanced final sketch.
How I Build Your Portrait
Every sketch I create follows a strict, layered process. I start with a light grid on professional 250 GSM acid-free paper to map out the facial structure. Once the proportions are set, I work with graphite ranging from HB to 10B for skin tones, and use charcoal powder for that deep, rich black finish on clothing or hair.
Pricing & Customization
My pricing is based on size and complexity:
- A4 Single Portraits: Best for close-up faces. I focus on fine detail for eyes and expressions.
- A3 Couple Portraits: These are my most popular requests for anniversaries. I use Mono Zero erasers for micro-details on jewelry and fabrics.
- A2 Group Portraits: Ideal for 3-5 faces. I use high-contrast shading so the artwork stays visible even from a distance.
Logistics & Care
I treat every piece as a delicate project. A4 and A3 sketches are flat-packed between rigid sunboards to prevent any bending. Larger A2 pieces are carefully rolled into crush-proof PVC tubes. Everything is sealed with a non-yellowing fixative spray before shipping to protect against smudging. Note that I do not include frames, so you will need to get your portrait framed locally once it arrives.
Sagar Viradiya
Hi, I am Sagar. I spend my days blending graphite and charcoal to bring faces to life on paper. I believe every portrait needs patience, and I make sure your commissioned piece gets exactly that.
Find your perfect portrait style
Explore my different sketch sizes and art options.
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