This book investigates the technical and practical methodologies required to capture a likeness in portrait painting through the lens of professional experience. Alan Hydes, an established television artist, draws upon his extensive career painting high-profile figures to provide a structured guide for aspiring portraitists. The text balances technical instruction with personal anecdotes, offering a comprehensive framework for both the mechanical and artistic aspects of the craft.

The content suggests a practical, accessible approach to portraiture that bridges the gap between professional studio practice and hobbyist instruction. The inclusion of specific technical chapters alongside anecdotal context provides a balanced resource for readers interested in both the mechanics of painting and the realities of working with high-profile subjects.