About the artist, Melissa Schatzmann

FAQS

Q:	Do you work from photos?
A:	Yes, I exclusively work from photographs unless your pet or loved one can sit for a month or two while I draw or paint them!

Q:	How can I send you my photographs?
A:	Photographs can be sent by email or by via post. While I prefer the original photographs taken from a traditional 35mm camera or a high quality digital camera, other photos have been clear enough for me to see detail. If you send them by email I can view them quickly to let you know whether or not I need another photo to draw from.

Q:	How many photos should I send?
A:	As many as you can! I would prefer you sent me a bunch of photos (in separate emails to minimize file size overload). Possibly between 5-10 photos. I would like to be able to sift through several photographs than to have to settle on one. However, if you only have one photograph than email it to me and I can let you know if I am happy with it.

How long does it take for you to complete a portrait?

Well, this depends on which medium that is choosen to do the portrait. Usually it takes anywhere from 1 - 2 months to complete a portrait whether it's pencil or chalk pastel. I take commissions on a first come, first serve basis so depending on the number of portrait commissions I have at the time, you may need to wait a few more weeks or possibly months. This is all determined at the time of contact so the client knows exactly how long it will take and approximately when they will receive their portrait.

Q:	What payment methods do you accept?
A:	I accept Paypal. Paypal is a secure, quick, easy and efficient way to pay worldwide. Paypal accepts VISA, MasterCard, AMEX, and Discover cards. The transaction is 100% secure.

Q:	Would you come and take photos for me?
A:	Sure! If you live close by that is! I don't travel the countryside to take photos for my clients but if you live nearby we could possibly arrange a photo shoot of your loved one or pet. If you live at a distance it would be best to email me your photos or mail them.

What if I don't like the portrait? Is it guaranteed?

I can assure you that you will like the portrait before delivery. In fact, each client will be set up with their own client login page which allows the client to view the stages of their portrait being done. If the client sees any problems with the drawing or painting stages, they are able to contact me with their concern. The client is my number 1 priority so being able to show them the portrait stages, the client feels more involved with the whole process. The clients input is very valuable to me.

What makes a good reference photo?

There are a lot of things to consider when taking a photo. In particular, when taking a picture of your pet it would be best to take them outdoors on an overcast day than a bright, sunny day and never take pictures using a flash! The flash will not only drown out the true colours of your subject but it will also cause unnatural glares and shadows. It is best to take portrait photos outside in natural sunlight, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not at its brightest.

Here are some photo tips:
• make sure the photo is clear & detailed (not out of focus!)
• take the photo under good lighting conditions (eg. outside in natural light,
   professional lighting)
• upclose and not too far away! Make sure your subject isn't so far away that you can't
see their features! This is a very common mistake and people expect to be able to draw
   from them. You need to be able to clearly see their eyes, nose and mouth. Subjects who
   have black hair/fur may need to take extra time in positioning them and in good lighting
   to capture the best effect.
• Never look down on your subject! Try taking the photo at the subject's eye level.