Oil vs Coloured Pencil vs Soft Pastel Portrait

If you're considering a custom portrait in Australia, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right medium.

Should you go for a portrait with the richness of oil paint, the precision of coloured pencil, or the expressive softness of pastels?

Each medium creates a very different result—not just in how it looks, but in how it lasts, how it’s cared for, and how it feels in your home.

This guide will help you choose the right option for your portrait.

Why Choose Oil?

Border Collie - Oils

Man - oils

Oil paintings are considered the gold standard of portraiture.

• Exceptional depth and realism

• Rich, layered colour that feels lifelike

• Museum-level longevity (can last generations)

• A true statement piece for your home

This is the medium most people imagine when they think of a heirloom portrait.

Considerations

• Takes longer to complete due to drying time

• Higher investment compared to other mediums

• Needs care while curing (first few months)

Aftercare

• Keep away from direct sunlight and humidity

• Avoid touching the surface

• Occasional varnishing protects the painting

• Minimal maintenance long-term

👉 Best for: Clients wanting a premium, long-lasting portrait

Why Choose Coloured Pencil?

Boxer - Coloured Pencil

Senior - Coloured Pencil

Coloured pencil portraits are all about precision and detail.

• Extremely sharp detail (ideal for pets and fur)

• Clean, controlled finish

• More accessible price point

• No drying time

This medium is perfect when you want accuracy and clarity.

Considerations

• Less depth compared to oil painting

• Requires time-intensive layering for realism

• Needs protection to avoid smudging

Aftercare

• Always framed behind glass

• Keep out of direct sunlight

• Avoid moisture and touching the surface

👉 Best for: Detailed pet portraits and smaller commissions

Why Choose Soft Pastel?

BlogDog - Soft Pastel

Cat - Soft Pastel

Soft pastels sit between drawing and painting, offering a beautiful, expressive finish.

• Vibrant, velvety colour

• Soft blending and atmosphere

• Immediate visual impact

• More artistic, emotional feel

Considerations

• Very delicate surface

• Less sharp detail than pencil

• Requires careful framing and handling

Aftercare

• Must be framed under glass (with spacing)

• Keep upright and avoid movement

• Avoid humid environments

• Never touch the surface

👉 Best for: Clients wanting a soft, artistic, emotionally expressive portrait

Quick Comparison of each medium

Feature	Oil Paint	Coloured Pencil	Soft Pastel
Detail Level	High	Very High	Medium
Colour Depth	Exceptional	Good	Vibrant
Durability	Very High	High (framed)	Moderate
Style	Classic	Clean & precise	Expressive
Maintenance	Low	Low	Higher care
Investment Level	Premium	Mid-range	Mid-range