FAQs

How do I know what my painting will cost?
Check the pricing page for the full breakdown by canvas size and number of figures. Once you submit your photos and details, Linda reviews everything and confirms your final price before any payment is due.

Is my painting an original, or a print?
Every piece is a one-of-a-kind original oil painting, painted personally by Linda. There are no prints or reproductions involved - what you receive is the only one that will ever exist.

Will my painting look exactly like my photo?
Not exactly, and that's by design. Linda uses your photo as inspiration and a starting point, not a template to copy line for line - each painting is an original oil piece, created in her own artistic style to capture the likeness and spirit of your person or pet. Expect some natural artistic variation from the reference photo. And before anything ships, you'll get to see photos of the finished piece and approve it.

What kind of photos do I need to send?
Clear, well-lit photos work best - the more reference you give Linda, the truer the likeness. You're welcome to send multiple photos, combine people or pets from different pictures into one painting, or use AI-generated images as reference.

Can you paint from just one photo, or do I need several?
One clear photo can absolutely work. More reference photos simply give Linda more to work with, which can help with details like expression, coloring, or a pose from a slightly different angle - but one good photo is all it takes to get started.

Can you paint from an old, black-and-white, or damaged photo?
Yes - send what you have, and Linda will do her best with it. Older or lower-quality photos may take a bit more interpretation, so if you have any other photos of the same person or pet, even from different years, feel free to include them for extra reference.

Do you paint memorial portraits, of a pet or person who has passed?
Yes. Many commissions are created in memory of a beloved pet or family member, and Linda takes special care with these pieces. Send whatever photos you have, and she'll work closely with you to make sure it feels right.

How many people or pets can be in one painting?
Up to 6 figures total, combining people and pets however you like. Smaller canvases hold fewer figures comfortably - the pricing page shows the limit for each size.

Can I request a specific costume, background, or setting?
Yes - costumes and custom backgrounds are both available as add-ons, priced once Linda reviews your photos and vision. Just mention what you have in mind when you submit your commission.

Can I request a rush order?
Yes, rush turnaround is available depending on Linda's schedule, for an additional fee based on how quickly you need it. Mention your timeline when you submit your commission and Linda will let you know what's possible.

Can I purchase a gift certificate for someone else?
Yes - email Linda directly to arrange a gift certificate for a commission.

How long does a commission take?
Linda will give you an estimated completion date once your commission is confirmed. It's an estimate, not a guarantee, but she'll keep you posted on any delays along the way.

Do I get to see the painting before it ships?
Yes. Before anything ships, Linda sends you photos of the finished piece for your approval. If something needs a small adjustment based on your original photos, that's free. Bigger changes - something different from what was originally requested - are quoted separately. Nothing ships until you've approved it and the final balance is paid.

What if I change my mind after the project has started?
We understand plans change. Once your 25% deposit is paid and Linda begins work, that deposit reserves your spot on the schedule and covers the materials and time already invested, so it's non-refundable if you decide not to continue. Linda may also end a commission at any time; in that case, everything you've paid is refunded in full.

Do you offer framing?
Not at this time - your painting arrives ready for you to frame however you like.

How does payment work?
A 25% deposit reserves your spot and gets started. The rest can be split into a few payments, with the final balance due once you approve photos of the finished piece.

What if my painting arrives damaged?
Every piece is insured through the shipping carrier. If something looks off when it arrives, take photos right away and reach out within 48 hours so Linda can file a claim on your behalf.

Can I use my painting for advertising or a business?
The standard commission is for personal use and display. If you'd like to use it commercially, just ask - Linda offers a separate commercial license for that.

Do you ship outside the United States?
Yes. Shipping is charged at cost for both domestic and international orders, and international orders may include additional taxes or duties.