Creating beautiful portrait paintings have been the favorite hobby of many artists and for many it has been their means of earning a livelihood, since ages. The techniques used by artist of earlier times, to create a portrait, were different from those which are used by artists of present times. The techniques and styles have been modified with time to give the portraits a better and more lively look.

Artists of different ages have tried out different forms of textures, styles and themes to create portrait paintings. But only a few artists succeeded with their experiments and their works were gladly accepted by the art lovers from all over the world. However, the different experiments done by the artists not only added new dimensions to portrait paintings but also exposed the hidden talent and capability of many artists. The newly identified artists very soon mastered in their specific styles and created exceptional pieces of art.

There were hundreds of portrait paintings created by artists from round the world which were perfect in look and resemblance. Few among these portraits not only became famous, but touched the hearts of people and gained an everlasting recognition as well. They left a permanent impact on the heart and mind of all the art lovers. Leonardo da Vinci's 'Monalisa', 'The last Supper' and Picasso's 'The Old Guitarist' are few such paintings whose beauty and popularity is untouched by time.

Earlier, people loved to own famous portrait paintings created by world famous artists. Few even got their own portraits made. But getting one's own portrait made was a very costly affair. But times have changed and so have the situations. Now, one can find many artists who have specialized in creating portraits. Their quotes are also affordable. The portraits created by these artists look like photographs rather than paintings because of the fine finishing.