Judson, what helped me when I did my pricing a long while ago was go to a lot of the sites Cynthia has created and click on ones that match my demographic, meaning my type of area where I live.
I would pick artist that were better, same and not as good - of course this was all just in my opinion, so I had to be really honest with myself.
I then printed out their price sheets and averaged the ones that were equal. It took a bit of time but I think it was fair. Once you start getting your asking prices you will feel more confident about your commission cost.
If you are just starting out, just reduce what you think is fair, but don't under sell yourself.
The structure Richard discusses is one I have heard too, but I find it more applicable to "figurative" pieces, not commissioned portraits. One thing I am finding is that I should really up my cost for posthumous work, which is something I never really gave thought too.
Good Luck!
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