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

Thank you for your order! To lock down your spot on my waiting list, please send photos of your pet(s) 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 utilize natural light with the pet’s face in sharp focus.

The best way to make your portrait appear three-dimensional on two-dimensional paper is to use reference images with dramatic shadows.  Warm, high contrast lighting helps make portraits that “come alive.” Natural sunlight from early morning or late afternoon provides particularly 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 as well as screenshots or digital stickers don’t show needed details. I especially want to see the eyes clearly. It’s also often more engaging to view an animal at their level as opposed to looking down.  (But of course, also chose images that reflect your pet’s personality!)

Will I get a chance to see the initial design?

Yes! We will discuss by email which photo or photos work best. Then I will send you images of an initial sketch and 3-4 progress photos as I work. You are welcome to weigh in during this process but there’s no requirement to respond.

Can I make other requests for the design?

I welcome your feedback on design ideas. Keep in mind that a background is deemphasized to focus on the pet. If you see something that you want me to change in the initial sketch please let me know. Once I start painting I am committed to the design, although of course small changes are possible. Pencil drawings are even simpler, with even less background included.

What about color preferences?

When I send you the initial sketch I will also include a photo of the colors I intend to use (although this might change somewhat during the artistic process.) I welcome feedback to ensure the painting will compliment your home décor. But of course this doesn’t apply to portraits in pencil.

When do I pay the remaining 50% payment?

Once I have completed the painting I will send you a photo of its final appearance for approval then invoice you for the remaining payment, if applicable. 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 Or if you’re picking it up locally, we’ll arrange to meet at Peet’s Coffee at 1365 Park Street in Alameda, CA.

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

It usually takes a month to complete a painting once I get the reference photos, but this can vary 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!