From a photo to a painting

Several friends and clients have asked me lately if I would mind posting a photo that I painted from alongside the resulting painting. As most of you know by now, my goal is never to create a perfect semblance of a photo - I create what I would describe as a children's book illustration version of a child.

Here is an example of a photo sent to me by my client, and the painting I created for her. She asked for a Bible verse reference to be included, along with the little girl's name.

Some clients ask me to paint with certain colors, so as to match the color scheme of the room they plan to hang the painting in. Others leave color choice completely up to me. I am fine with both.

The photo of Sierra was posted with the permission of the photographer, as well as her mother.