I haven't read the link, but thought that I would add that I quote on size. If you accept a commission I feel you have to give a quote. So how would you structure your pricing? You can't ever know exactly how long a painting is going to take you. I tell the client how much the painting will cost depending on size and how many subjects in the portrait (I do animal portraits) The price includes framing, photos, CD and gift card, any traveling involved is usually extra, unless it's fairly local. I ask 30% up front, balance on completion, but most people are happy to pay 50% up front.
Over the years I do know roughly how long a portrait will take. But thats only still roughly. Then the cost of the framimg comes into it which I have structured into my pricing. Soooo, some portraits I profit and a few I lose out on. But you have to have a price guide, you cant just say to the client...'Oh, I don't know how much, I'll let you know when I'm finished'
