I have chosen a size and paid my deposit, now what do I do?

Thank you for your order! I will now need photos of your pets for the portrait. Please send the photos to info@chasemartinart.com. You’ll also get an email with all these instructions below.

How many photos should I send?

It’s best to send several photos, at least three but even more is great. If you’re ordering a single portrait that includes multiple pets please send photos that have ALL the pets in the images. I know this might be difficult, but combining pets from different photos produces less successful results due to scale and lighting differences.

Are there certain types of photos that work best?

The best reference photos of your pet for successful art have sharp details and dramatic shadows. A focused face in warm sunlight is usually best.

The best way to make your portrait appear three-dimensional on two-dimensional paper is to use reference photos with dramatic shadows on and around the animal.  A high contrast from strong lighting helps me create the most captivating portraits that “come alive.” Natural sunlight from early morning or late afternoon in particular provides warm, impressive results.  Diffused interior lighting renders a subject flat and less animated.

I also want to really capture the defining features of your pet, so photos need to have good resolution. Out of focus, grainy or dark photos result in subpar portraits. Screenshots and digital stickers definitely won’t work. But don’t worry - great photos can easily be taken from your cell phone! Close-up shots (within 3-5 feet depending on the animal) get much more detail. And it’s best if I can see the pet’s eyes clearly. It’s also often more engaging to view an animal at their level as opposed to looking down.  (But of course, make sure the photos show your pet how you want to best remember them, playing with a certain toy or making that endearing facial expression!)

Will I get a chance to see the initial design?

Yes! I will let you know via email which photo I prefer. Then I will send you a photo of my initial sketch of the design. At that point you are welcome to provide additional feedback.

Can I make other requests for the design?

I welcome your feedback on design ideas. Keep in mind that the background may need to be relatively simple to focus on the pet, although I sometimes put in the edge of some furniture or other elements like grass or a favorite toy. But if you see something that you want me to change in the initial sketch please let me know. Once I start painting, however, I am committed to the design.

What about color preferences?

When I send you the initial sketch I will also likely discuss the colors I intend to use (although this might change somewhat during the artistic process.) This is a good opportunity for you to let me know if your color likes or dislikes, especially for the background. My goal is for the painting to go well with your décor and personal style. Of course, this doesn’t apply to pencil portraits.

When do I need to send in the remaining 50% payment?

Once I have completed the painting I will send you a photo of its final appearance and an invoice for the remaining payment plus shipping costs, if not picked up from Alameda, CA. Upon receipt of the balance I will mail your custom watercolor via USPS Priority Mail. Typically this takes up to three business days to arrive within the continental USA Six by six inch watercolor or pencil portraits will be mailed upon completion since no further payments are necessary.

How long does the process take from start to finish and what if I need it sooner?

It usually takes 2-8 weeks to complete an order, depending on the time of year. Your spot on my waiting list is set when I receive your photos. (Please note that the months before and right after the holidays are often very busy.)  If you have a desired deadline let me know and I will try to accommodate you.  If I can't, cancel within a week of your order for a full refund (if I haven’t started on the piece.)

Do you have a deadline to submit the photos?

Like yours, my time is valuable! I will make at least three requests by email for reference photos. If six months after an order I still have not received the photos I will retain the deposit but consider the order terminated. Of course, I may make exceptions for extenuating circumstances - my primary goal is to work with you to create a wonderful pet portrait!