Custom Oil Portraits by Irish Portrait Artist Deirdre Hayes
Commissioning a portrait is a beautiful way to honour a person, celebrate a moment, or create an heirloom for the future. As a portrait artist based in Dublin, I create custom oil portraits that focus on presence, gentle light, and a natural likeness. Working from carefully chosen photographs, I paint portraits that feel intimate, expressive, and timeless, including individual portraits, family portraits, children’s portraits and multi-figure pieces.
Get a Photo Painted in Oils (Dublin & Ireland)
Many of my portrait commissions begin with a favourite photograph. If you’re looking to get a photo painted in oils in Dublin, I can work directly from your reference images to create a calm, timeless portrait with an accurate likeness. I can help you choose the most suitable photo (or photos) and guide you through the process from start to finish.
If you’d like to learn more about how my commission process works, you can read about it on my general commission page.
Recent Portrait Paintings
Children’s Portraits
My portrait work was featured during Sky Arts’ Portrait Artist of the Week online.
Commission a Portrait in Oils
Portrait Pricing
Portrait commissions start at €800.
As an example, a 14×18 inch painting featuring a single figure is approximately €1,000.
Multi-figure and family portraits begin at €1,500, with the final price depending on size, composition, and the level of detail.
Every commission is quoted individually once I’ve seen your reference photos
Portrait Commission FAQs
How do I start a portrait commission?
Just email me any photos you think might be suitable, along with the size you’re considering. I’ll let you know what will work best and confirm availability.
Do you paint portraits from photos?
Yes — many of my commissions begin with a favourite photograph. I can work directly from your reference images to create a natural, expressive portrait in oils
Can I send any photo for the portrait?
Please only send photos you own the copyright to — either images you took yourself or photos you have permission to use. I can’t work from copyrighted studio or professional photographs without the photographer’s approval.
Do you help choose the best photo?
Yes — and I prefer if you can send several options. Expression and lighting are the most important parts of a successful portrait, and the photo that feels meaningful to you isn’t always the one that will translate best to paint. Big smiles, selfies, and photos with flat lighting often don’t translate well into oils. I’ll help choose the image with the most natural expression and subtle light so the final portrait feels calm and timeless.
Do you paint children and family portraits?
Yes. I regularly paint children, adults, and family portraits, from single figures to small groups.
Do you paint from multiple photos
Yes — if needed, I can combine reference images to capture a clearer expression or better lighting
What deposit do you require to start a portrait?
I take a 50% deposit to secure your booking and begin the painting. The balance is paid on completion.
How long does a portrait commission take?
On average, 4–6 weeks depending on size and my schedule. If you need it for a gift or a particular date, just let me know and I’ll see what’s possible.
Do I get to see the painting before it’s finished?
Yes — I send a near-final photo so you can request any small adjustments before varnishing.
Contact
If you’d like to commission a portrait or ask a question, feel free to get in touch. I take on a limited number of portrait commissions each year, including individual and family portraits, and meaningful gift pieces. I’m always happy to chat through ideas and help shape something meaningful.
If you’d like to get in touch or ask a question, you can reach me through my contact page
“I love the painting — it will be my pride and joy.” — Client, Dublin
If you’d like to see some behind-the-scenes portrait studies painted from life, you can read more in my blog post Painting Portraits From Life.