Pencil Portraits From Photos: A Style Guide

Pencil portraits · drawn by real artists

A quiet, detailed portrait from your photo

A pencil portrait brings attention to the subject’s glance, expression, lighting and recognizable details. Choose it for a personal gift, a memory or artwork for your home.

A real Sketchus artist creates the drawing by hand. An Art Print reproduces that work; choose Original Drawing for the physical artwork itself.

Create your pencil portrait Free photo check
Pencil portrait from a photo
Since 2005Portrait experience
See the price in the product optionsDepending on the selected options
Express availableFor many subjects
Free photo checkBefore ordering

Why choose pencil?

Black and white keeps the focus on the person: their glance, facial features, smile and the details you recognize.

Graphite portrait from a photo
Pencil portrait from a photo

Consider pencil if you prefer a quieter, classic appearance.

It can suit family, couple, pet or memorial subjects.

Who could I give a pencil portrait to?

Personal gifts Choose a photo for a birthday, Christmas, anniversary, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or another family occasion.
Recognizable details Pencil shading can show facial features, shadows and a familiar expression.
Artwork for the home A black-and-white portrait can suit a living room, bedroom, office or picture wall.

Is your photo suitable?

Visible faces, light and contrast help the artist work from your reference. If you are unsure about an old, dark or blurry photo, have it checked first.

The check is free. We can assess the useful details, suggest a crop and advise whether pencil or another style could suit the subject.

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Pencil portrait from a photo

How to order your pencil portrait

01Choose your photos

Upload your favorite reference, or have it checked first.

02Choose your options

Select size, people or pet count and available finish.

03Add your wishes

Tell us about the background, expression, crop or intended gift date.

04A real artist draws

Your artist creates the drawing by hand from your reference.

Pencil portrait from a photo

Can you combine several photos?

Often, yes. Family members or pets can be combined into one natural arrangement when the references are suitable.

This is useful for a family or memorial portrait when there is no shared photo.

Create your portrait

Portrait options

ExploreCustom portraitStart your pencil portrait here. ExploreFamily portraitBring several people together from one or several references. ExploreMemorial portraitA respectful way to include someone you miss.

Pencil portrait questions

Is it really drawn by hand?

Yes. A real Sketchus artist creates the artwork by hand. An Art Print reproduces the drawing; choose Original Drawing for the physical artwork itself.

How much does a pencil portrait cost?

The final price depends on the selected style, size, subject count, finish and extras. See the product options before ordering.

Can I have my photo checked first?

Yes. The check is free and is useful for dark, older or blurry references.

Can you draw several people together?

Yes. Several people or pets can often be combined from suitable reference photos. Select the correct people or pet count.

Is Express available?

It depends on the subject, style and complexity. Ask us to check your photo and a fixed date before ordering; shipping time is additional.

Keep your photo in pencil portrait artwork

Upload your reference and choose your portrait options. If you need help choosing the photo, have it checked for free first.

Create your portrait Free photo check