F.A.Q.
We receive many questions about our fine art services so we’ve put this page together to try to answer questions most often asked.
Communication is at the heart of every successful custom artwork. A simple email or text is all it takes to begin—just let us know what you have in mind. For your convenience, we’ve also created an online form that allows you to share your vision and upload your reference photo(s) easily. Once we review your request and images, we will provide a detailed quote along with a Photoshop mock-up, so you can see exactly how your painting or drawing will look before we begin.
For the best results, reference photos should be clear, high-quality images. Photos taken at eye level with the subject generally provide the most natural and pleasing composition. Good lighting is important—natural light without harsh shadows works best—and the subject should be in sharp focus rather than blurred or heavily filtered.
If you are unsure which image to choose, you are welcome to send multiple photos. We can select the strongest reference or combine elements from several images to create the most accurate and compelling artwork. Photos do not need to be what is considered as “formal”. Many of our custom works of art are created using reference photos with an informal pose.
Sometimes it is not possible to take new photos—such as for past events, memorial portraits, or rare subjects—we are experienced in working from existing photographs. Even older or imperfect images can often be used to create a beautiful and meaningful piece of art.
Absolutely. We can combine photos of more than one subject into the same painting such as three separate photos of your pets used for one painting. You may have a photo of the perfect pose, but want the expression from a different photo. We always work with our clients to achieve what they are looking for. Simply send us the photos, and tell us what you want. We’ll do our best to make you happy.
Current Schedule: Our lead time depends on the number of commissions already in progress.
Seasonal Demand: During popular gift-giving periods—such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day—lead times may be significantly longer.
Artwork Size: Larger pieces naturally require more time to complete.
Subjects & Detail: The number of subjects and the level of detail requested can also impact production time.
Order Priority: Commissions are completed on a first-come, first-served basis. In some cases, a rush order may be available upon request.
With the above information in mind, commissions can take anywhere from just a couple weeks to several months. It is always best to contact us to get a lead-time estimate.
We have found that sharing artwork in its early stages is often not helpful. Custom art is created in phases, and the beginning stages are intentionally loose, abstract, and unfinished. Viewing the work too early can sometimes create unnecessary concern about how the final piece will look.
For this reason, we typically provide a progress photo when the artwork is approximately 90% complete. At that point, you will have the opportunity to request up to minor corrections or adjustments to ensure the finished piece meets your expectations.
If you have a special need to see the artwork at an earlier stage, you are welcome to request an email update at any time, and we will gladly accommodate when possible.
If you’d like, I can also create a shorter version or adjust the tone to be more boutique-style and conversational.
There is no charge to get started. Once we review your request and reference photos, we will prepare a detailed quote along with a computer-generated proposal sketch for you to review—completely free of charge. This allows you to clearly see our vision before making any commitment.
When you’re ready to move forward, we will send a PayPal invoice for a non-refundable 50% deposit. As soon as your deposit is received, your commission is officially placed on our schedule and we begin creating your artwork.