Live Sketching FAQs
How long does it take to do a live painted sketch?
It take 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 will require space for a small table and chair (I can bring my own if needed) and if the subjects are posing live I'll need 3-4 meters of unobstructed space in front of the table where they can pose.​
I also require an adequate amount of light but can bring my own lamps if needed.
What materials do you use?
I use 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.
The sketches are packaged in clear cellophane envelopes for protection.
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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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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.
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 at a low rate 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 as they arrive at 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 Sketching at weddings, I will pre-book times to sketch your chosen guests prior to the ceremony starting according to your package. I will sketch and take photos during the action and then take additional photos afterwards for the additional sketches in your selected package.
The ceremony scene sketches will be completed afterwards in my home studio over the following week and delivered to you.
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.
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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 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.
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.
When using a number system, some people may miss their turn because once they start socializing they forget to keep an eye on the board for their number! This also wastes time when trying to track down who's next.
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Some people have a hard time standing still 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!
This can be challenging when the alcohol is flowing.
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It's your choice which approach you think suits your event best, or you can allow your guests to decide what they prefer.
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!
How many people can you sketch on the same page?
I recommend a maximum of 4 people to pose together for sketches on A5 paper.
Is it cheaper 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 their size relationships and areas where their poses touch.
Do your sketches look like the people?
Yes! The sketches capture a simplified and flattering likeness of the subject.
See some 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 happy to make some minor tweaks to reality as this is part of the magic of sketching!
How much does it cost?
Fees for events in 2024 are based on the sketching time required at $150/hr, with approximately 6 people sketched per hour on A5 paper.
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For guest numbers below 40, quotes are based on 6 people sketched per hour.
*this number of guests can be completed on site
For guest numbers between 40-74, quotes are based on 7 people sketched per hour.
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For guest numbers between 75-99, quotes are based on 8 people sketched per hour.
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For guest numbers above 100, quotes are based on 9 people sketched per hour.
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Please note this doesn't alter the quality of sketches as I still take the same amount to time on each one! It's just a way of calculating a better rate for higher volume.
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The number of hours required is based on the period in which I'll be sketching at the event plus an estimate of the amount of time required for me to complete sketches afterwards in my home studio, if necessary.
In certain circumstances I'm open to charging per sketch, the rate per sketch can be quoted based on an estimate of total sketches to be completed. More sketches = a lower rate.
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​Travel within 30kms of Maroochydore is included, and $1.50/km is charged beyond 30kms.
Please inquire below for a quote specific to the requirements of your event.
What's included?
Included with any booking is:
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-sketch paper customized with your event information
- each sketch packaged in cellophane for protection
- a PDF file of all the scanned sketches emailed to you
- a video reel of all the sketches with your wedding song / chosen song emailed to you
- a link where your guests can download their sketch as well as the photo I took of them and watch the video
-any remaining sketches delivered to you
-travel within 30kms of Maroochydore
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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 prior to your event.