PAINTING INFO
what is digital painting?
Digital painting is a method in which the artist uses digital media to create an image which sometimes has the look of traditional painting
IS IT REALLY ART?
Absolutely! There are many different way to create a piece of art, from oils to watercolors, papier-mâché to ceramics... digital painting is just a different technique. It requires years of practice and experimentation and a solid knowledge of how the software reacts to your input. We use different digital brushes and techniques to achieve the results we’re looking for.
This is not a filter. It takes hours to bring out details in the reference photographs, clone out backgrounds, and then meticulously build up layers of digital “paint” with different-sized brushstrokes and textures. Each image is absolutely unique.
While there are many powerful programs out there that promise to convert your photographs into paintings, no computer algorithm can replicate the thoughtful brushstrokes of a digital artist. Proof of that is that each artist has their own unique stye that is identifiable by the people familiar with their work.
Whether you choose a digital painter or watercolor painter or felt artist to create your heirloom artpiece is dependent entirely on how you feel about the artist’s style. That fact that the medium is digital should not discourage you - if you love it, that’s all that matters!
“To say I’m a picky customer is at best being gracious. Danica was so professional and willing to work with me... until I was satisfied on both projects. The entire experience was enjoyable and the result is exactly what I wanted. I can’t say enough about Danica and her work. My picture is hanging in a prominent location and always brings a smile to our faces.”
FAQ
how much does it cost?
The cost of my paintings is determined by the size and medium on which they are printed. Finished paintings are printed by professional labs on either fine art paper or canvas and, if requested, framed. Prices range from $229 to $905. Prices include painting, printing, and shipping in the mainland US. The average client spends $509.
Additional charges include complex composite work, new detailed backgrounds, frame upgrades, international shipping, and Ohio sales tax.
what makes a good reference image?
There are usually three poses that translate into a lovely finished product:
- a headshot with the subject looking directly at the viewer
- a headshot with the subject in profile
- a full body shot
Images that show fur/hair/feather detail are best where the subject is close and not in the far distance. I can add in any background so if you have a good close up shot but prefer the scenic background in another shot, send them both along!
Please send any original files without cropping. Some email programs will lower the file size if the image is pasted into the email body so please ensure that you’re attaching the original file to the email instead. If you have a lot of large images, please ask me for a dropbox link so that you can upload them without worrying about file limitations.
Visit the portfolio page to get a feel for the type of images that would work best for your painting or read this blog post.
can you change the background?
Yes, absolutely. I can both remove or add backgrounds. I prefer to remove backgrounds and replace them with a neutral painted effect but I can keep the existing background if you would like. I can also add a new background, compositing in a different scene.
why should i choose a digital painter ?
Digital paintings can be re-sized and printed on any medium desired. You can have multiple printings done if you'd like to gift copies to family members or friends. There’s also a faster turn-around time since nothing needs to dry.
do you only paint dogs?
Nope! I paint people, cats, frogs, landscapes, houses... whatever you want! If you've got a decent photograph of it, I can paint it.
do you sell digital files?
I only sell finished prints. I used to sell digital files but I found that clients either didn’t print them or chose substandard vendors (or their own printers) for the finished product. I want to control the quality of the final work so I provide finished art pieces such as framed prints or canvas.
What payment forms do you accept?
I accept credit or debit through Paypal, cash, or check.
Payment plans are available with a $100 deposit. The finished painting will not ship until the last payment is made.
do you have a satisfaction guarantee?
I absolutely do. If you don’t love your painting at any point in the process, I will refund your entire purchase. If you have received your finished product and are dissatisfied, I will ask that you ship it back to me, at your cost, before processing your refund.
can you take my reference photo?
Yes! I offer mini-sessions in the Columbus area to capture a single image that can be used for your painting. This is an add-on product for paintings only. Send me an email for more information!
Printing OptionS
I carry a selection of carefully curated products designed to display and preserve
your new painting in the best possible way.
A canvas gallery wrap.
A framed fine art print.
CANVAS GALLERY WRAP
PRICES BEGIN AT 373
A canvas gallery wrap is a simple yet classic way to display your painting. The image is professionally printed on a satin finish canvas and hand-sprayed with a protective UV coating before being wrapped around a hollow, inflexible 1 1/2″ solid surface The back of the canvas is sealed to protect the image from dust and then a sawtooth hanger is attached to allow you to easily hang your canvas from a nail. This printing option does not require a frame and arrives at your door, ready to display!
FRAMED PRINT
PRICES BEGIN AT 470
Perhaps you prefer a more traditional framed style. Your painting is professionally printed on fine art paper, an acid-free 100% cotton rag which is archival for up to 100 years, then custom matted and framed. We’ll work together to find the best frame to complement your image.
Due to the custom framing, the turn-around time for framed prints will be longer.
FRAMED CANVAS
PRICES BEGIN AT 490
If you’d like to dress up your canvas, consider adding a frame. I offer lightweight polycarbonate frames in five different colors and two different widths to complement your painting and your decor. The lighter weight of these frames makes it super easy to hang once the painting arrives.
Due to the custom framing, the turn-around time for framed canvases will be longer.
JUST THE PRINT
PRICES BEGIN AT 229
Are you particular about your decor and would prefer to mat and custom frame your own print? I offer my images printed on fine art paper in standard sizes, 8×10 and 11×14, which are perfect for buying pre-cut mats and frames of your own choosing. These are also the perfect size for gifting and can be upgraded to a larger size at a later date - see more information below.
8×10 and 11×14 prints arrive in boutique packaging that is perfect for gifting.
For more information about the difference of printing on paper or canvas, check out this blog post: Paper or Canvas.
Prices are all-inclusive - PAINTING, PRINTING, FRAMING, US SHIPPING & HANDLING
with the exception of ANY APPLICABLE OHIO SALES TAX and INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
additional charges for COMPLEX COMPOSITE WORK and NEW DETAILED BACKGROUNDS are based on time and effort required
IS THIS COMMISSION A GIFT?
Maybe you don’t have the best photo to use as a reference but would like to gift a painting to a friend or family member. Purchase a gift voucher to allow the recipient to choose their own reference images for a painting.
Gift Vouchers are available in any denomination and can be used as a deposit if the recipient would like to upgrade sizing and framing!
ADD-ON gift items
ADDITIONAL GIFT PRINTS
Do you need additional prints of your painting for friends and family? Order 8x10 and 11x14 gift prints in boutique packaging.
KEEPSAKE ORNAMENT
3” metal ornaments printed on both sides with your painting make a beautiful keepsake.
NOTECARDS
A set of 4.25 x 5.5 notecards with matching envelopes graced with your painting on the front. Vertical or horizontal orientation. Blank inside unless you request something special. Available in multiples of 6.
AUTOGRAPHED BOOK
An autographed copy of “Setterly Yours: A Photographic Introduction to The English Setter”.