The procedure for obtaining an oil portrait by Richard Balash is initiated by a consultation with the artist or his representative. During this session, the needs of the patron and the artist's methods and techniques are discussed.

Most people about to sit for a portrait by Richard Balash are pleased to learn that it will not involve a great amount of their time. Usually, a posing session of 1 to 2 hours is used to create an individual study from life. (for preteen children, the life study is limited to color notes and measurements). This is followed by a relatively short photography session. He uses the photographs and the study as a guide to create the portrait in his studio.

Photos of the oil portrait in progress are sent to the client for approval as the painting progresses, and to discuss any possible changes before Richard schedules his return trip. The painting is then brought to a stage of near-completion.

When Richard returns to the client's city, a final sitting is arranged, with the subject at hand, so that the painting can be completed to the client's satisfaction.