Hand-Drawn Charcoal and Pencil Portraits

I work directly from your reference photos to ensure the likeness is spot on. For these portraits, I use high-grade compressed charcoal and acid-free 200 GSM paper, which gives the drawing a deep, rich texture that lasts. You will see a draft before I seal the final piece, so you know exactly what is coming your way.

Ordering a custom portrait is about more than just ink on paper; it is about keeping a moment still. When you send me a photo, I look for the small details—the way someone smiles, the depth in their gaze, or the way their hair falls. I specialize in both high-realism charcoal shading and lighter pencil sketches, depending on the vibe you want.

If you are planning this as a surprise gift, let me know early. Charcoal needs time to settle and be fixed, so I usually need about 48 hours for smaller A4 sketches. For larger, more detailed portraits, I take a bit longer to layer the tones properly. I ship across India, and if you are in Bangalore, we can coordinate a safe pickup.

Tips for a Great Portrait

• Clear Lighting: The better the lighting in your reference photo, the more detail I can capture. Avoid blurry or low-resolution images.
• Angle Matters: Front-facing photos or three-quarter views usually work best for capturing a recognizable likeness.
• Emotional Connection: Choose a picture that captures a real expression, not just a posed one.

I pack every piece in a protective sleeve or a sturdy tube to ensure it reaches you without smudges or creases. Framing is not included in the base price, but I am happy to guide you on what kind of frame would complement the shading and style of your piece.