When families begin planning an heirloom portrait, one of the most common questions I receive is whether an oil portrait painting or a pastel heirloom portrait is the right choice. Both styles are timeless, beautiful, and designed to become lasting artwork — but each offers its own unique feel.

Understanding the differences can help you choose the portrait style that best reflects your child’s personality and your home.

The Classic Depth of Oil Portrait Paintings

Oil portrait paintings carry a traditional richness that feels rooted in fine art history. With layered texture, depth of tone, and a painterly finish, oil portraits often feel formal and museum-like in presence.

These portraits are especially well suited for milestone ages, sibling groupings, or families who love the look of classical artwork. Oil paintings tend to make a strong statement on the wall and are often chosen as centerpiece pieces in a home.

Finished on museum-quality canvas and custom framed, oil portraits offer a sense of permanence that feels both elevated and enduring.

The Soft Elegance of Pastel Heirloom Portraits

Pastel heirloom portraits have a lighter, more delicate aesthetic. With soft tones, gentle transitions, and an airy quality, pastels beautifully highlight childhood expressions and subtle features.

These portraits feel intimate and timeless, making them especially popular for babies, toddlers, and younger children. Pastels often showcase softness and innocence in a way that feels natural and understated.

Finished on hand-torn cotton and floated against museum-grade matting, pastel portraits are framed with care and arrive ready to hang, offering a refined presentation that feels both classic and approachable.

Choosing Based on Personality and Home Style

Rather than one style being better than the other, the decision often comes down to your child’s personality and your personal aesthetic. Some families are drawn to the richness of oil paintings, while others prefer the gentle simplicity of pastels.

During planning, we consider wardrobe, expression, age, and where the portrait will live in your home. These details help guide the final style so your artwork feels cohesive with your space and meaningful to your family.

Creating Artwork That Grows With Your Family

Many families choose to build collections over time, mixing oil paintings and pastel heirloom portraits as their children grow. Baby portraits may begin in pastel, while later milestone ages are captured in oil — creating a beautiful visual story across childhood.

Both styles are created with longevity in mind, using professional materials and custom framing so each piece becomes part of your family’s legacy.

Guiding You Through the Process

As a Raleigh children’s portrait artist, my role is to guide families through every step — from choosing the right portrait style to delivering finished artwork that’s ready to display. Whether you’re drawn to oil paintings, pastel heirloom portraits, or a combination of both, each piece is thoughtfully crafted to stand the test of time.

If you’re considering a custom heirloom portrait in Raleigh, I’d love to help you choose the style that best tells your child’s story.