Live Sketching FAQs
How long does it take to do a live sketch?
It takes about 7-10 minutes per person on A5 size paper whether I'm sketching someone posing live or from a photo.
In instances where there are a large number of guests to accommodate within a shorter time frame, it would be recommended to have them pose for photos when they come in, which I then sketch/paint from during the duration of event and they collect later upon completion. This allows for a more efficient use of time.
Numbers will be capped according to the time frame allowance if the sketches are required to be finished by the end of the event.
If the sketches are not required to be finished by the end of 6 hours of sketching time on location then arrangements can be made to complete them in my home studio and deliver them to the host after the event.
What type of space and equipment is required?
I require a small table (minimum 1m in length) and chair at regular height in a well lit, undercover area. I can bring my own if necessary.
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Beside my table I setup a sign with instructions and space to hang completed sketches underneath.
If the subjects are posing live I'll need 3-4 meters of unobstructed space in front of my table where they can stand.​
What materials do you use?
I use an oil based pencil and a combination of watercolor and gouache paint on cardstock, bristol or hot pressed watercolor paper depending on the requirements of the event.
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Event information can be printed onto the front or back of the paper at no extra cost.
A QR code is also printed on the back of the paper so guests may download a digital version of their sketch as well as the reference photo taken, available from one week following the event.
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The sketches are packaged in clear cellophane envelopes for protection.
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How many guests can you sketch at an event?
I can sketch approximately 6 people per hour on A5 paper for a maximum of 6 hours, which amounts to a total of approximately 36 people completed on site.
In certain cases I'm willing to work longer and complete more sketches on site so long as certain requirements are met.
Numbers can be capped according to the designated time frame, which means everyone interested may not be able to obtain a sketch, or if the sketches aren't required by the end of the event, arrangements can be made where I finish a higher quantity of sketches later at my home studio using photo reference and have them delivered to the host afterwards to disperse.
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Another option is for the host to choose which guests are entitled to a sketch by organizing a list prior to the event.
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Guests who aren't able to get a sketch done can have the option to order their own sketch through my website which I would complete following the event.
How does it work?
For Guest Sketching at weddings, I take photos of the guests on my ipad as they arrive to the ceremony or reception and work on them while the festivities take place.
Guests are welcome to watch me sketch and look through the finished sketches.
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For Ceremony Scene Sketching at weddings, we will discuss which scene you'd like captured and I'll be there at the moment to snap photos on my ipad. Depending on the guests you choose for sketches, I'll take their pictures either before or after ceremony.
The ceremony scene painting will likely need to be completed afterwards in my home studio over the following week and delivered to you.
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For Fashion Sketching at events, the host can decide whether the guests pose live for their sketch or pose for photos which I sketch from. The host may also leave the decision up to the guest or designate certain times for posing live / posing for photos.
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At events where guests are posing live, interested guests can be sketched on a first come, first serve basis OR a number system can be used so interested parties may take a number and keep an eye on the whiteboard for their turn to pose for me in real time.
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Numbers will be capped according to the time frame if sketches are required to be completed by the end of the event.
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Alternatively, in instances where the sketches aren't required to be finished by the end of the event, I can take photos of everyone interested as they arrive and work on them throughout the course of the event. The remaining sketches will be completed from my home studio and either delivered to the host to disperse or delivered directly to the guests for a postage fee.
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For Live Ambiance Sketching at events, I will sketch the attendees, environment, and festivities as per your requests and I will also take photos for reference to aid in completion of the sketches and paintings afterwards in my home studio.
What are the pros and cons of posing live vs for photos?
Posing live is more fun and interactive for both the subject and for me, and is a unique and memorable experience to have!
While it adds entertainment value, it may take guests away from other activities at the event.
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Some people have a hard time standing still (especially if the alcohol is flowing) so the sketch can take longer or not turn out as good in that case.
Other people feel too shy to be looked at for so long and decline posing live for a sketch.
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Taking photos of the guests as they arrive guarantees that the maximum number of guests are sketched or that everyone who wants a sketch, gets one (in packages which include sketches for all the guests).
It tends to be more efficient and doesn't take the guests away from other important activities happening at the event.
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The quality of both types of sketches are quite similar, so long as the subject can stand still!
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It's your choice which approach you think suits your event best.
You could allow your guests to decide what they prefer or leave it up to me to make the call at various stages of the event.
What are the pros and cons to using a number system vs. first come first serve for sketching guests who are posing live?
Sketching the next person in line (first come, first serve) works efficiently that, as soon as one person is done, I can start the next person right away. However, this may mean that interested guests spend a lot of time waiting, or even through they'd like a sketch, they choose not to wait.
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Using a number system can be great so the guests can participate in other activities while in the queue for a sketch, however time can be wasted in trying to track down the person with the next number if they aren't paying attention when their turn comes up.
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Another option is to use a sign up form so interested guests can write down their name and mobile number into estimated time slots. If necessary their names can be announced by the mc or phoned/sent an SMS when their turn approaches. This system may require the assistance of another person for best results.
Can I see your live sketches from previous events?
Yes, I've posted the sketches from a number of events I've sketched at previously in my Live Sketch Gallery.
You can read more about each event in my blog.
Watch some videos of me live sketching here.
Does it have to be a "fashion" sketch?
No! I'm referring to this style of full body illustration as a "fashion" sketch but you don't need to dress up if that's not your thing!
Are you available for kids parties?
Yes, I love sketching kids!
They are creative in choosing poses and have surprised me at how long they can stand still when posing live.
All these kids posed live!
How many people can you sketch on the same page?
I recommend a maximum of 3-4 people to pose together for sketches on A5 paper.
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The more people in a sketch, the smaller they will be drawn to fit on the page..
This is my record to date, 8 people on A5 paper
Is it cheaper/faster if people pose together?
No! It takes me about the same amount of time per person whether they pose together or separately.
While there may be some overlapping in their body positions when posing together, extra attention is required for accuracy in the subjects' size relationships to each other and placement where their poses touch.
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The exception is if kids will be posing with adults then I can reduce the rate for the kids.
If the kids are posing on their own or with other kids, then it will be the regular rate.
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Do your sketches look like the people?
Yes! The sketches capture a simplified and flattering likeness of the subject.
See some more photo/sketch comparisons in my Live Sketch Gallery.
Can you draw me slimmer/ more muscular/more beautiful?
Please know that you are fabulous as you are!
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My goal is to sketch everyone in a flattering manner and capture their essence while creating an appealing design.
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That said, I'm open to making some tweaks according to your wishes as this is part of the magic of sketching!
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If your party has a theme, that can also be worked into the sketches in creative ways.
How much does it cost?
Fees for Live Fashion Sketching at Events in 2025 are based on the sketching time required at $210/hr, with approximately 6 people sketched per hour on A5 paper if sketching continuously.
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Fees for Guest Sketches at Weddings are charged per person sketched.
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Wedding guests may pose as individuals, couples or in small groups as the rate is calculated per person rather than per page.
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I've created a tiered pricing structure with the base rate starting at $34 per person for weddings booked in 2025. The price per person reduces beyond each threshold of 40/70/100 guests.
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​Travel within 30kms of Maroochydore is included, and $1.50/km is charged beyond 30kms.
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In cases where I'll be driving a long distance and sketching into the evening, an additional accommodation fee will be required.
Please inquire below for a quote specific to the requirements of your event.
What's included with Guest Sketching/ Live Fashion Sketching?
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- sketch paper customized with your event information
- each sketch scanned and packaged in cellophane for protection
- a PDF file of all the scanned sketches and reference photos emailed to you
- a video reel of all the sketches with your wedding song / event song/ chosen song emailed to you
- a QR Code link printed on the back of the sketches where your guests can download their sketch as well as the photo I took of them and watch the video reel
- any remaining sketches delivered to you in person or via express post
- travel within 30kms of Maroochydore​
How do I book?
Please get in touch below to inquire about availability and get a quote.
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50% of the quoted fee will be due at the time of booking.
The remaining 50% will be due one week prior to your event.