"John is a wonderful professional and artist photographer. We had a great time doing a couples dance photo shoot and the pictures turned out amazing." — Maryann and Rafael • "John is an incredible photographer. I loved how our images turned out. Will definitely work with him again in the future." — Sharon • "I recently celebrated my 30th birthday party with friends and family. John is an awesome photographer, highly professional and reasonable." — Kennedy • "Great overall service. Would definitely recommend." — Christelle •

Let’s work

Every piece here starts as a conversation. Commission a portrait session, a pencil portrait drawn from your photograph, or a painting made for your wall. Based in Toronto, working across North York and Mississauga, and taking remote commissions worldwide.

Portrait Photography

Editorial and portrait sessions, shot on location or in studio. For models building a portfolio, brands that need a campaign, and anyone who wants portraits with a point of view. Browse the Gallery, then tell me the idea.

Pencil Portraits

A hand drawn pencil portrait from your photograph. Send a clear, well lit photo and I will tell you honestly if it will draw well. A single face, a couple, or a portrait of a loved one. Drawn, signed, and shipped to you anywhere. See the Drawings page for examples.

Custom Paintings

An original acrylic painting on wood panel, made for a specific wall and a specific person. We talk subject, size, and colours first, and you see the direction before I begin. See the Paintings page for the style.

How it works

Step one, tell me. Use the form below. For drawings and paintings, have your photo or your room in mind, you can send images by email right after.

Step two, direction and quote. I reply personally with the approach, the timeline, and a quote for the work. Every commission is quoted individually, nothing is priced off a shelf.

Step three, creation and delivery. I keep you posted as the piece comes together. Finished work is signed, packed with care, and shipped, or handed over in Toronto.

FAQs

Can I commission from outside Toronto?

Yes. Drawings and paintings are commissioned remotely worldwide, and shipped with tracking.

What photo should I send for a pencil portrait?

The clearest, largest photo you have, in natural light if possible. If a photo will not draw well, I will tell you before any commitment.

How long does a commission take?

Photography commissions are typically ready within two to four weeks. Drawings and paintings are made to order and typically take two to four months. If you are working to a date, say so in your inquiry and I will tell you honestly whether it can be met.

Do you need a deposit?

Yes. A 50 percent deposit books your commission, with the balance due on completion.

What if I am not sure what I want?

Ask anyway. Half of commissioning is the conversation, and there is no obligation in it.

Quotes are always individual and always free. I reply personally to every inquiry.