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Just wanted to let you know that Robert LOVED your portrait of Frances - I gave it to him on his birthday, (I didn’t look at it before hand since it was wrapped so nicely). In fact, I can safely say that he is amazed and in awe at your ability and craft and how well you captured Frances! He is showing it all around and telling them of your incredible talent. AND, he can’t stop thanking me for the best gift ever!!!
Thanks to you, I gave him the best gift ever!
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These highly detailed portraits illuminate your pets personality in a two-dimensional medium with a three-dimensional feel!
The Process
1
Review the guidelines for pet portrait reference images below. Finding a quality reference photograph is the MOST important step in commissioning a custom piece.
2
Please send me your reference images for an initial consultation. At this time, we will discuss the quality of your images and if they will be the best fit for a scratchboard portrait.
*Melissa Helene Fine Arts reserves the right to request different images if deemed inappropriate quality
My scratchboard work is highly detailed and photo-realistic. In order to achieve the highest quality in the finished product, I must have photos with an appropriate amount of detail available.
3
Decide what size scratchboard you would like your portrait to be.
Size options below.
4
After approval of your reference images, you will be sent an invoice for the first 50% installment.
Sit back...Relax...and wait for a photo of your portrait when it is finished , for approval!
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All pricing for custom scratchboard artwork is based on the scratchboard size.
Size B+W Color
5"x5"...………….$300 $400
5"x7"...……...….$350 $475
8"x10"...………...$750 $1000
9"x12"...………...$950 $1300
11"x14"...………..$1800 $2300
12"x16"...………..$2600 $3250
10"x20"............$2800 $3500
14"x18".............$3500 $4400
16"x20"............$4200 $5100
18"x24"............$5300 $6500
Time To Completion
I believe that quality takes time - accuracy and likeness are my #1 priority for your custom pet portrait. Please allow 4-6 weeks from October to March. For commissions requested from April to September, please allow 8-12 weeks for completion - the summer months keep me very busy creating wildlife work for art festivals.
Testimonials
Read what my clients have to say about their experiences commissioning custom scratchboard artwork here!
See examples of colored scratchboards here.
Additional sizes are available upon request.
My Business Promise
Melissa Helene Fine Arts promises to engage in all business with integrity and honesty, while contributing creatively and artistically to our local community and greater society. I promise to provide quality products, in a timely manner, to the satisfaction of the client. I am dedicated to celebrating both the hidden and obvious beauty of our world and using artistic expression to increase awareness of issues concerning the environment, wildlife, and conservation.
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Please send photographs that focus on your pet's FACE and that have been taken in plenty of LIGHT. Electronic image files are always the best for creating custom portraits. (iPhone photos are not preferred, but if the photo is taken with adequate light these images can work.)
Details are CRUCIAL for capturing a true likeness and the ability to enlarge your submitted photos is equally important. Please be sure to zoom in on your animal's face to examine the detail available before submitting.
Below are examples of both great reference images with plenty of details and lower quality images that I would not be able to work with.
*If your animal has passed away, I will work with you to compile reference images suitable for the portrait.
Tips For Getting Great Photos of Your Pet
Take your pet outside, but out of direct, harsh sunlight.
Place your pet close to a window facing the light.
Bring a treat or favorite toy to grab their attention and put a little 'spark' in their eye.
Be patient and take many photos!
High Quality Image - DSLR camera
Low Quality Image - iPhone photos in low light
