Sending the Perfect Photographs:

Since all art work is done from photographs provided by you, here are some tips for sending your very best images. This will increase the chances of your pet's unique characteristics being captured in the artwork.

• Send multiple color photographs (the more the merrier)

• Send high quality photos (daylight shots are best, if scanning the image into your computer, make sure the scanner is using a resolution higher than 150dpi. If you are unsure of how to set the resolution on your particular scanner, check their website or enlarge the image to at least an 8x10.)

• Get down to animal level for all shots. If shooting a dog, get down on the floor. Put your hamster on a table so you can get eye level with him or stand back to get your horse in focus. The pictures will look more natural when sketched.

• If you intend to have the background detailed, make sure it can be clearly understood in the photograph. Blurred or indistinct backgrounds require the artist to make guesses which might lessen the beauty of the final sketch.

• If you are going for an empty or undetailed background, make sure there aren't objects in front of the animal or overshadowing the animal that have to be removed by the artist. Again, the clearer the picture and the less guess work the artist has to do the better the final product.

• If sending photos by computer, make sure your computer is virus free. Attach photos to an email with 'PET SKETCH' in the subject line and any requests, comments or questions you have in the body of the email. Send no more than 3 pictures per email.

• For best results catch your pet doing something particular to their personality. If your dog sneaks up onto the couch when you're not home, try to catch him at. The image will make you laugh and will be more personalized than a standard pose.

FAQ

Q: How long will it take me to get my picture once you recieve the photographs?
A: I try to get the picture out to you in less than 1 week. It will never take more than 2 weeks. The best way to keep a customer happy is fast, well done-not rushed-work, so some customers have gotten their pictures back in 3-4 business days.

Q: If I send you my photographs, do you keep them?
A: NO. I will never keep photos when the work is done. I usually scan the image the customer and I have agreed on as the main reference in case their are any problems and a new sketch must be made. Those images are also used in my gallery along with a scan of the sketch I have done.

Q: What happens if my picture is damaged in the mail?
A: Let me know. If there is signficant damage-a scan of the damage would be great for me to assess it- I will make a new one for you for the cost of shipping. I will need proof the image is damaged to avoid being taken advantage of by unscrupulous people. Send the image or a scan showing the damage back to me and I will definitely replace it. I want you to be happy.

Q: I want another copy of my picture. Do I have to pay full price?
A: Yes. All artwork is original and I have to go through the same process to make a copy as I did the original and in a sense it will be an original. Since all images are hand drawn, no two will ever be exactly the same. I will send you a printer quality scan for a small fee, depending on the size of the work.

Q: Would you come to my house and draw my pet?
A: Yes...now here's the but: You have to be close in range to my house (within 30-40 miles) in NE Philly, PA. I charge a lot more if I come to your home. I charge for travel, any tolls I have to pay and my time in addition to the fees for individual sizes. It gets very expensive. I'm willing to do it if you are.

Q: What if I don't like the finished product? Do I get my money back?
A: No. You're paying for my time, so I can't refund your money. If you don't like the work contact me by email. Express why you do not like the finished drawing and I will attempt to correct it. I may do a replacement sketch if I feel it is warranted. Happy customers are returning customers, so don't hesitate to contact me.

Q: Can I get a custom size?
A: Yes. Email or call me, email is faster. Tell me what size you need and I will quote you a price.

Q: Do you draw portraits of people or landscapes?
A: Yes. I prefer animals. I will accept almost any art project. If the photos are clear I can do it. The pricing would change depending on the project, so email me for a quote.

Q: Do you paint animal portraits?
A: Yes. It would be double to tripple the price of a sketch. Also I can do digital manipulations, those would be cheaper than paintings and you could have them printed through snapfish.com or any other reputable photo developer's site or I could have them printed and sent to your address for you.

Q: Do you draw reptiles or birds?
A: Any pet, any size. I'll draw your ant farm for you if you'd like. Turtiles, snakes, lizards big and small along with parakeets, parrots, finches and even wild birds in the backyard... I draw them all. I would love to hear from some hamster or iguana owners. The images would be great for my gallery and my art portfolio in general.

Q: Do you offer discounts?
A: Not normally. Arrangements can be made if you need a lot of work done or if you are a loyal customer discounts may be offered to you in the future.

Questions or comments?