Portrait F.A.Q.

What is Giclée and how do you pronounce it? Giclée (pronounced jhee-clay) is a coined french term meaning to spray. A Giclée printer sprays tiny droplets of rich vibrant pigmented inks on a paper or canvas medium. We use canvas to help create the look of an oil painting. The Giclée print is becoming the choice of many artists because of the smooth and consistent image and the rich and vibrant pigmented inks of archival quality. Fine art Giclée prints are found in galleries and museums all over the world.

How can my photograph be turned into a Portrait Painting? The portrait artist scans the picture into the computer. Then working directly from the photograph the artist paints every pixel of the image brush stroke by brush stroke. As an artist, he can improve composition by removing objects, creating light and shadows, increasing or changing colors, etc. After the transformation is complete, it is sent to the Giclée printer where it is printed on canvas. It is then given a protective coating and stretched on stretcher bars. It is then ready for framing.

Can the background or color scheme be changed? Yes. If you have some special requests or needs, we will work with you. Some enhancements require additional fees.

Can I order a Portrait that is different from your standard size? Yes. Custom Portraits are not a problem.

How long does it take? Most portrait paintings are ready in two to four weeks.

Can you turn my black and white photograph into a Portrait Painting with color? Yes. Prices are quoted on a piece-by-piece basis.

Do you hand highlight? Yes. For a small additional charge, the Portrait Artist will highlight your painting with oil paint. Highlighting is becoming increasingly popular among professional artists for enhancing the prints of their fine art originals.

Do you accept digital pictures? Yes. Digital is great if it's not too pixelated.

May I use a picture from a photography studio? You can, but only if you obtain a copyright release from the photographer or studio.

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