Q:  What is a digital painting exactly and how is it made?
A:  It is a painting that is created on a computer with specialized software and uses a tablet, stylus, and electronic color palette instead of a canvas, brush, and paint. These paintings are painted stroke by stroke and take several hours to several days to complete. Please understand, they do not merely involve applying a "oil painting" filter in Photoshop. Refer to The Digital Workflow to read more about how a painting is produced digitally.

Q:  What are the advantages of a digital portrait over a traditionally painted portrait?
A:  Digital portraits take far less time to create since the paint strokes may be applied on separate layers enabling them to be more easily modified or erased. Materials are far cheaper since digital paint and brushes are free. Less time involvement and cost of materials means less cost to the consumer (about 1/3 less). While at the same time the brushstrokes look realistic, the color is still brilliant and the archival inks and paper mean the prints will even outlive your children!

Q:  What is a giclée print?
A:  A giclée print is a museum quality print, printed with Epson Ultrachrome K3 archival inks, available only for large format professional level printers. They are printed on top of the line photographic paper, fine art watercolor paper, or canvas.

Q:  I'm concerned about the permanence of these giclée prints. Do they fade? How long will they last?
A:  With proper UV protection, these prints are scratch resistant and fade resistant for over hundred years for color and nearly 200 years for black and white. The exposed canvas prints are sprayed with a special UV protection and then printed on water resistant canvas.

Q:  What exactly is included in the price of the Custom Portrait?
A:  The initial consultation, the photo session/minor editing of photo references, the art production, a brief proofing session, minor changes (if necessary), and the final print on archival fine art paper.

Q:  What is not included in the price of the Custom Portrait?
A:  Long distance driving, major editing, excessive changes and reworking after proofing stage, printing on canvas, matting or framing, shipping and handling charges.

Q: How long will the photo session last?
A:  Roughly a half hour. Perhaps longer if there are multiple subjects.

Q: Where will the photo session take place?
A:  Photo sessions for traditional poses may be scheduled in studio (Meadowbrook Studio) or on location, such as your home, your yard (garden, patio, etc.), the beach (May to Oct), or park (non-private). Westport has many beautiful beach location spots.

Dance photo shoots may take place at either the dancer's studio of choice, the recital rehearsal, or in the artist's studio.

Sports photo shoots involve the artist photographing the athlete at one of their games. However, the artist does not stay for the entire game.

Q: How far will the artist travel for the photo session?
A:  In order for the photo session to be included in the price of the portrait package travel time needs to be limited to a half hour each way from Westport, MA.

If you are outside of this radius and really desire an on location photo shoot at a site near you (such as your home or special garden, etc.) instead of in studio or on location at a beach nearby the studio, then please call to inquire about the exact travel upcharge.

Q: Do you have any recommendations for what to wear or how to prepare for the photo session?
A:  Please see Photo Session Tips for detailed information regarding this topic.

Q: Is it possible for a background to be enhanced or replaced with a completely different background?
A:  Yes. A completely different scene may be used as long as the camera angle, lighting and perspective are the same. Also, the artist may invent a studio backdrop effect (any color), which is often more appropriate for head and shoulder views.

Q: How much input may I have during the entire creative process and production?
A:  In the initial consultation, and before the photo session, you will both discuss many of the considerations ahead of time such as the possible locations, clothing, overall mood or feeling, size, and view. After the photo session, you may choose the pose you like most or you may allow the artist to choose. After the artwork is complete, you may view the proof to either accept for final printing or, if necessary, have the artist make minor adjustments, which is allowed once at no extra charge.

Q:  Is there any reduction in price if I order more than one custom artwork item per year?
A:  Yes, if you commission one custom portrait (starting at $300) any additional commissioned portrait artwork in the same year (12-months) will be 10% off.

This offer applies to Custom Portrait Paintings (Digital Oil or Watercolor) and Drawings (Digital Pastel or Charcoal), Photo Montages, Photo Collages, Special Effect Portraits, Fantasy Portraits, Family Tree Illustrations, Video Slide Show DVDs, and special Custom Portrait Gift Certificates which start at $300. The offer does not include extra copies of a portrait, giclées of landscapes or other non-commissioned works, gifts such as notecard sets or tee shirts, or standard gift certificates.

Q:  If I supply my own photos may I get a reduced price since the photo session will not be needed?
A: Although this is sometimes possible, it is not very likely because using snapshot photos usually involves a great deal of time spent in the editing process (especially if using a scanned photo instead of a digital file). So, what may be saved in photo session time has to be made up for in editing. However, there are occasions that it works out. The artist would be able to tell you in the initial consultation.

Q:  Are there any instances where one may have to resort to using existing photos?
A:  Yes, when the subject is deceased, unavailable or long distance, or a surprise gift for someone.

Q:  Is it possible to create a custom portrait from another professional photographer's work?
A:  Yes, but only with a signed release form in which the photographer gives up all rights to the painting. Many may not do this. The artist most prefers working with her own photos, except when necessary.

Q:  What type of photos would be ideal to use as portrait painting references?
A:  Clear photos with good color and crisp detail. Eye color and hair color should be obvious. Hair should not be covering face. People should not be smiling "too much," (which looks more like a snapshot than a photo). A pleasant smile or thoughtful, pensive expression is best suited for traditionally posed portraits. Photos should not be too dark or too light, both obstruct color clarity and detail. Body posture should be relaxed and on a bit of an angle to avoid a stiff, straight on mug shot look. A low camera height is often best for children and pets--get down on the floor or ground and shoot them at their level. In general shooting subjects at about half their height is most pleasing.

Q:  Can you also work from prints, negatives, slides? Which format do you prefer?
A:  I can work from all--sometimes even digital video, however, the easiest and best quality solution is a digital photo file, submitted either on CD or flash drive. Single files may also be emailed. Keep full resolution though; do not reduce the size of it at all.

Q:  How many photos should I submit of each subject to be included in the portrait?
A:  Ideally, a few of each subject in order for the artist to get a better feel for the true essence of each. If in doubt, send several. All will be returned.

Q:  Will the painting look exactly like the photo or can some things be modified or enhanced?
A:  Facial features may be enhanced and slightly idealized, similar to how photo portraits are airbrushed, although the likeness of the subject will still be exact. Colors of clothing, etc. may be changed or patterns may need to be simplified in order to create a better color harmony in the painting. Distracting elements will be eliminated. Overall color scheme may be brightened if dull or softened if too contrasty.

Q:  I have a great photo of my child but the background is a messy, visually distracting scene. Is it possible to use another photo for the background scene?
A:  Yes, as long as the perspective, lighting and camera angle look convincing. In other words, you cannot shoot one standing up and one sitting down or one outdoors and one inside with a flash. At times, the background of the original photo may sometimes be salvaged if it is de-cluttered and simplified.

Q:  What type of background would be best suited for a head and shoulders portrait?
A:  Usually a simplified painted brushstroke background as opposed to depicting realistic scenery.

Q:  Whenever I try taking group pictures of my children I inevitably get one of them turning away, blinking, or moving. Is it possible to combine the best version of each child into one painting?
A:  Yes, definitely. When multiple photo references all represent the same subjects from the same scene it is relatively easy.

Q:  I want to surprise my wife by having a portrait made of her and the children --but all without my wife knowing about it. Is it possible to work from separate existing photos I have of each of them and then combine them into one painting?
A:  Sometimes possible, but very difficult to look convincing because subjects are usually taken from different angles or heights (creating different perspectives in each shot), heads may turned at different angles, and the lighting will most likely be different. (If creating a photo montage however, this would not be a problem.) If would be advisable to make up an excuse to take a few good group photos yourself.

Q:  What is a photo montage and how is it different from a collage?
A:  A photo montage features photos that blend into each other and seem to transparently overlap each other. Some elements may possibly appear very faint and dreamlike. Text may be also be included, often as supportive elements.

Traditionally, a collage refers to an image in which paper elements are cut out or torn, assembled and attached to a surface, creating a textural, 2-D artwork. A photo collage on the other hand, refers to a rather loose, electronic interpretation of the a traditional collage in which separate elements are combined and assembled, each shape with their own defined edges. Separate elements may be arranged in rows, grids, or in an overlapping arrangement. Edges may have a simulated cut or torn edge and may also include3-D effects such as a slight drop shadow. Background patterns, photos and borders may be used and text is often included. A digital scrapbook layout is one type of digital collage.

Q:  May I use my own photos or do I need to schedule a photo session?
A:  You may do either, depending on the content and purpose of the montage.

Q:  How many photos should be provided?
A:  Answer.

Q:  In what format do you prefer the images to be submitted?
A:  First choice would be a digital file format (original file, at full resolution). Please do not send edited versions. Original digital photos offer the most amount of information. Please submit on CD, flash drive, or if only a few, via email.

If photographs, slides or negatives, are all that are available then they can be scanned at the studio. It is not recommended that you scan these yourself unless you know how to scan hi-res images. Having to scan many images may result in extra design charges. All original images will be returned to you as soon as they are scanned.

When desperate, still shots may be extracted from digital video footage (must be DV), although there may be an upcharge for the extra time involved.

Q:  Why is the final price of this type of portrait only estimated until all the photo references are received?
A:  Because the time spent scanning and/or adjusting photos can drastically be effected by the quality, size and format of the photos submitted. The artist will try to keep the final amount as close to the original estimate as possible. However, the final price will be determined at the outset, before any scanning, editing, or art creation is begun.

Q:  Can I mix black and white and color photos in one montage?
A:  Yes, the medium lends itself nicely to combining a variety of effects, sizes and levels of transparency.

Q:  Should I include any text, if so what should it be about?
A:  The optional text could be meaningful phrases, excerpts of letters, poetry, quotations, etc.

Q:  Can a photo montage be turned into a painted montage?
A:  Yes, certainly. However, the price will be more expensive since the painting step involves an additional phase of the work to be executed.

Q:  I have several photos of a recent family vacation and would love to compile them into one piece of artwork. What would be my options?
A:  Your possibilities for including multiple photos into one project could include a photo montage, a photo collage, or a video slideshow to music on DVD.

Q:  it possible to turn a good color photo of my children into a rich black and white photo? It has very strong lighting but when I try to convert it to B&W in Photoshop it just looks really flat and gray and loses all the drama and mood that I love about it.
A:  Yes, the artist employs a specialized technique for creating a rich range of values with crisp highlights and details; especially when printed on the highest quality photo paper available today.

Q:  I have a beautiful photo of my daughter that I would love to have enhanced with a soft, romantic and dreamy effect? Is that something you can do?
A:  Yes, this is one of many special effects that can either be produced from her own studio portraits or may be added to your own already existing photos.

Q:  I have always liked those old, vintage photographs from the 1950's and 60's -- the sepia toned photographs that were subtly hand-tinted. Is it possible to commission portraits of my children with that same old fashioned look?
A:  Yes. See Vintage Portraits for samples and more information.

Q:  My home is decorated with a contemporary flair, so I'm not sure that a traditionally posed portrait would look appropriate. Do you offer any other more contemporary portrait styles?
A:  Yes. Meadowbrook Studio offers some graphic approaches using a high contrast effect that is similar to the look of a silkscreen. These graphic portraits may be printed simply as black ink on white, or one color over another background color. They may involve single images or a series of images arranged in a line or a grid.

Q:  Is it possible to turn a photo of my sleeping baby into a flower fairy portrait?
A:  Yes, fantasy images may be invented using your own photos and combining them with other elements, creating a sweet, one-of-a-kind personal image.

Q:  I am interested in buying a couple landscape prints. Are the cost of prints more expensive when purchased at various shows, restaurants, or galleries compared with buying from the artist directly?
A:  No, the prices of the prints alone do not change. They are the same in all locations. The only advantage of contacting the artist directly--or in person at shows-- is that you could order from any of the available prints viewed online and, also, in the exact size you desire.

In addition, by custom ordering, you may choose your own optional mat or frame color. However, you should expect that the custom matting and/or framing will usually involve upcharges compared with purchasing an already framed, hanging piece seen in a restaurant, gallery, or show.

Q: Where can I purchase giclée prints of landscapes?
A:  Purchase may always be made through Meadowbrook Studio directly or from any of the current various local locations. Please refer to Where to Purchase Prints for the locations that are currently available.

Q: Am I able to purchase giclée prints online?
A:  Unfortunately, not yet. Please, email or call (508.636.7127) the studio with your order. Finished orders may be picked up at the studio at your convenience or mailed to you (shipping and handling will be extra).

Q:  What is the difference between a standard Giclée print and a Limited Edition Giclée print?
A:  A Limited Edition Giclée means that it is one of a limited number of prints ever being made of that painting. Once the limit is reached no more prints can ever be reproduced. Limited Edition prints also come with a certificate of authenticity, as well as the print number usually appearing in in pencil located on the lower left border of the image. For example, "150/200" means it is print number 150 out of a limit of only 200 ever being produced. A standard giclée print (also called an Open Edition) means there are no limits in the number of prints that may be printed.

Q:  How should I care for my giclée print?
A:  For permanent framing, it should be protected with UV protected glass and should not be located in direct sunlight. Ideal conditions to maximize longevity would also include proper climate control of heat and humidity.

Q:  I would like a painting of my dog printed on a set of notecards but do not want to commission a larger painting. Is this possible?
A:  No, custom portrait notecard sets (or tee shirts, etc.) may only be purchased in addition to ordering a custom portrait. However, there are several sets available in many themes or you may customize your own set from your favorite available prints.

Q:  I have already commissioned one portrait this year and now wish to purchase a gift certificate for my sister? Am I eligible for the 10% discount?
A:  Yes, as long as you purchase a Custom Portrait Gift Certificate (minimum amount of $300), a special gift certificate created with this discount in mind. The certificate must be used (or applied to a greater total value of) any of the custom portraits available. For example, if you purchase a $300 custom portrait gift certificate your sister could purchase an 11x14 painted portrait of her ballerina daughter, or a large photo montage of the entire family, or an illustrated watercolor Family Tree, or even apply it towards a more expensive painted family portrait printed on canvas. If you choose, you may specify the exact type of portrait you are giving right on the certificate, in order to pay for the gift in full.

Q:  What is the difference between a standard Gift Certificate and a Custom Portrait Gift Certificate?
A:  A standard gift certificate may purchase for any amount (no minimum) and may be used on any items at all, including giclee prints of landscapes (with or without matting/framing), notecard sets, photo retouching services, etc. They are not eligible for the 10% discount for returning portrait customers.

As explained above, a Custom Portrait Gift Certificate is intended for someone who wishes to give an entire portrait as a gift with the added benefit of being eligible for a 10% discount if they have already ordered one custom portrait that year.

Q:  Do either of the gift certificates have expiration dates?
A:  No. However, the Custom Portrait Gift Certificate will only guarantee the specific portrait pricing for one year from date of issue. After that, if prices go up, the recipient would just have to pay the difference of the price increase.

Q:  I received a gift certificate for a greater value than the product I am interested in. Am I able to get the cash back?
A:  I regret to say that we cannot give cash back from gift certificates, but there are several other options. You could be issued a new certificate for yourself to use in the future or to pass along as a gift for someone else. You might also consider adding a mat or frame, purchasing an extra, smaller copy of your portrait, or upgrading to printing on canvas. You could purchase smaller items such as a notecard set or a tee-shirt

Q:  I have a terrific family photo taken on vacation that I would like to enlarge but there are a few strangers in the background. Can they be removed?
A:  Usually, as long as there is enough background to replace it.

Q:  At a recent family reunion we took several group photos to get the perfect shot and we still didn't get one. Can some heads be substituted so that all the best versions of each of us are all in one image?
A:  Yes, as long as the camera angle did not change for all of the photos taken.

Q:  I would love to have one photo of my daughter without her pink hair and tattoos showing, Can you do these type of retouches?
A:  Yes, colors of clothing and even hair(!) can be changed and blemishes, moles, tattoos, piercings could be removed, if desired.

Q:  I have some old childhood photos from the 60's and 70's that have really faded in color and contrast. Is it possible to restore them to their original saturation?
A:  Yes, the color can be restored to the same intensity as if they were taken today.

Q:  I found a great sepia photograph taken of one of my ancestors who just came over from Europe at the turn of the century. I would love to have it framed but it is a mess. It's faded, lacks contrast, has scratches, tears, and even moldy spots. Can anything be done to save and preserve this heirloom?
A:  Yes, definitely. Every aspect mentioned may be restored.

Q:  We took a beautiful sunset picture at the beach of our son playing at the water's edge. The colors of the sunset were just perfect in real life but the picture looks more like a silhouette against a dark orange sky. Are you able to restore the scene to look more realistic and less like a silhouette?
A:  Yes, low light situations such as sunsets definitely pose photographic lighting challenges. However, the problem can be remedied.

Q:  How should I decide what type of ancestor chart/family tree I should have done since there are so many styles available?
A:  It may depend on your limitations. For example, you may be limited by the final desired output size of your illustration--and you wouldn't want to cram too much information on a small print. You also may be limited by your geneaological research in which you know a great deal about only one side of the family and not much at about the other. Or you may decide you want to include photos but you only have photos for 4 generations.

Q:  Do you input the text as well or just provide the illustrated family tree?
A:  Either service may be provided, although adding text at the same time as the illustration (and/or photos) does tend to look neater and more professional.

Q:  What information needs to be provided by me?
A:  This may depend on what you want to depict. The artist will need atleast a rough visual of the tree along with a list of all the names (preferably typed to prevent typos) including all info you want on the tree (such as years of birth, death, and marriage). Information provided must already be neat and organized.

Q:  May I choose the type font and style?
A:  Yes within reason, but remember that some fonts, when printed very small, become difficult to read. The artist will make suggestions.

Q:  I have photos of all family members and ancestors except for two. What can I do so that the design will still look uniform?
A:  A generic man, woman or child silhouette can be used to replace the empty spots.

Q:  I want to add a tiny head shot of each individual but the photos from the generations look completely different. I would prefer more cohesiveness in the overall design. Is there a way to get all of the photos to be more similar?
A:  Yes. All photos could be turned into black and white, or sepia-toned, or even colorized. Perhaps, you'd still like a little more artistic, vintage effect by adding some subtle hand-tinted color to the black and white. Other creative effects are also possible such as color coding different family lines or color highlighting only the direct ancestors. See samples.

Q:  I have various photos of objects and places that could make interesting background photos such as the ship my ancestors came over on and the old farmhouse that has been in the family for generations. Can these elements be incorporated into the design?
A:  Background images could make for an interesting, personalized design, as long as it is not too busy or distracting for all the small type.

Q:  What are my size restrictions for the final print?
A:  The printer prints a maximum of 17" wide and using paper on a roll means that you are only restricted to 17" on the shorter side.

Q:  I do a lot of scrapbooking and could really use some help with learning how to take better digital photographs and how to use software like Photoshop to try some creative effects? Do you offer any classes like this for adults?
A:  Please see the Course Schedule to see which courses are currently being offered. The Course Description section describes the content of the courses in detail. If there is a course idea that you do not see listed, you may email the studio with a request.

Q:  What are your class sizes?
A:  Class sizes are limited to 6 or 8 students as a maximum.

Q:  What type of facilities does your studio include?
A:  The studio is 500 square feet, located in a residential area, and includes a work sink, a bathroom, plenty of natural light (windows and skylights) and air conditioning. It is ground level, with one step up. See photos of interior views.

Q:  Would you consider designing a private class around my friends and me?
A:  Yes, you may email the studio with a request. Include some detail of what you would like to learn and list any contacts that you believe would be interested in joining you in setting up a class. Also include afternoons or evenings that you are all available.