Thoughts on Taking Commissions

So lately I have been spending quite a bit of time considering how to best turn my art into something career-like. I love doing murals for people and am giving a lot of thought to doing this more often. But, what I am really excited about is another idea that I came across recently. I'm often asked if I do commissioned portraits, and typically I respond with "no, not right now," simply because I would not have enough time to do my own artwork-I need to be building my portfolio and trying to establish myself as an artist with my specific style of working. With that said, I've been thinking about ways I can still begin an art career while building my portfolio. Selling prints is great, but what I think I might want to start offering is Commissioned Fantasy Portraiture. Basically I would do commissioned portraits but in a fantasy style/theme. People could commission me to put them into whatever fantastical scene or idea they want or I could choose for them. So if you've ever dreamed of being a fairy or a mermaid or a warrior or whatever, I create you as that character.
I haven't worked all the kinks out yet, but I think I'm liking this idea. I could use these images in my portfolio since they fit with my body of work, and I could make some money doing what I love. And since some have been on to me about not selling my originals, this way some of my originals are out there.

So what do you think? Would you want to be in your very own Fantasy Portrait?