Clear and well lit
A clear, well-lit photo with a visible face works best. The eyes carry most of a portrait's character.
From your photo to finished art.
Ordering a legacy portrait is simple. Send a clear photo, review the proof, request changes if needed, approve the final direction, and receive your completed artwork by email, ready to print, frame or order on canvas.
Portraits for life's important moments
Whatever you're commissioning, the steps below are the same. Start with the kind of portrait you have in mind to see examples and details that apply to it.
Memorial Portraits
Honor someone you've lost with a portrait for the service, for family, and for the years ahead.
Memorial portraits →Pet Portraits
Dogs, cats, horses and beloved companions, including pets who have passed.
Pet portraits →Before & After
See how ordinary snapshots become finished painted portraits.
View transformations →Four steps. No payment until your photo is approved.
After we review your photo and confirm it is good enough to work from, we email an invoice for online payment. Nothing is due when you first submit the form.
Send your photo
Choose a clear, meaningful photo. Better source photos usually produce stronger finished portraits.
Receive a preliminary proof
You receive a proof for approval before the final artwork is completed. Changes can be requested at this stage.
Approve and receive artwork
Once approved, the completed custom painted digital art is usually finished within about 3–5 days and sent by email as a high-quality image file suitable for enlargements up to 16" × 20".
Optional framing page
At your request, we will upload the finished artwork to a password-protected page in our gallery on Fine Art America, where you can choose from unlimited framing options, including framed prints and canvas.
Choosing the right photo
The source photo matters more than anything else. A few guidelines help us create the strongest portrait.
Old photos welcome
An old print, a faded family snapshot or a photo on your phone can all work. Final quality depends heavily on the source image.
One or two subjects
Best results are usually one or two people. Larger groups reduce detail, intimacy, and overall impact.
Timing and delivery
Turnaround
Usually about 3–5 days after the order details and photo are received. It may take longer before major holidays.
Rush orders
Rush orders may be available for an additional 50% charge. Please ask first so timing can be confirmed.
Your file, your prints
The delivered image file belongs to you, and you may make as many prints as you want. See pricing.