Nothing is more dramatic and charming as a really tight close-up portrait of a precious child playing coy with Daddy. Erik Polyak included some extra photos of his daughter not knowing which would serve best for their portrait. This image was so special it just had to be a separate painting to grace his Cleveland, Ohio condo at the Flats.

"Erik and Sophia" Oil 24 X 30

This is the reference photo used for Sophia's laughing gesture. It shows how we can use a variety of references to create the final portrait.

 

In this reference photo we have the basic pose for the portrait. The purpose is to demonstrate how a few artistic modifications can render a more polished presentation.