Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Why should I get a picture made? What makes it different from a photograph?
A: There are several reasons you may want a drawn portrait over a photograph.- You may not have good photos of the person or animal you want a portrait of.
- The only limitation in portraits is the skill level of the artist and your own imagination. Photographers can do wonderful things, but they are limited to what they have available in the real world. I can make your loved one (or yourself!) an angel, mermaid, knight, whatever you want them to be.
- Perhaps the most obvious reason is that you will have a beautiful piece of fine art with warmth and life to cherish in your home for years to come.
- Q: What do you need to make a portrait for me?
A: Photos! Clear, large photos preferably. I also need information. I need specific details of what you want. For example, what you want in the background, what clothing you want on your subject, etc. The more detailed and specific your request the better.
- Q: How much does it cost to get a portrait made?
A: It depends on what you want. There is not a set price because every client wants something different. In general, large, complex portraits will cost more than small or simple ones. Also, since watercolors are much more expensive than pencils paintings are more expensive simply to offset the cost of my supplies.
- Q: How long does it take to get a portrait made?
A: it depends again on how busy I am and how complex it is. Usually it will take about 2 weeks to a month, but sometimes it can take longer if I get sick, or if circumstances demand it.
- Q: Can I take several photos and make one drawing from them?
A: Yes. Actually, I prefer that. If I have more than one photo it is easier to see the details of the subject's features, and if for some reason I cannot use one photo I have a back-up.
- Q: Can you use low-quality pictures and make a good portrait?
A: It depends on the photo. If the image is very small, very damaged, or very blurry I may not be able to use it. But if it is clear enough to make out individual features I should be able to work with it. However, good, clear photos and close-ups of the subjects' faces are always best.
- Q: Will my portrait look exactly like a photograph?
A: No. It will look like the person you want it to look like, and will be as accurate as I can possibly achieve, but it will not be an exact photorealistic representation. Also my style is influenced slightly by impressionism, so it is not strictly photorealistic.