In keeping with the "concierge" business model, we will select the frame that we feel artistically best completes the image. If a client wishes, they may select only the style and color "family" of the frame.
Style choices are:
- Ornate: French, Italian, Spanish, etc
- Modern: American, Art Deco, etc
Color families are:
- Gold
- Silver
- Wood (brown tones)
We understand that there might be situations where you'd like a more contextual look -- like in a business setting, or a gorgeous room.
This is something that we will certainly consider, although we might choose to photograph the environment separately and then later use it as the backdrop. This approach gives us the ability to "fine tune" the alignment of the subject relative to background elements for the most pleasing look. In some cases there might be a modest additional charge for such background creation.
From the time we arrive, we typically require about 15 minutes to set up, and then only 15-30 minutes for the actual portrait creation.
We intentionally keep the time short because many of our clients are busy professionals and like to be in and out quickly. Because we don't have to spend any time worrying about the surroundings or poor lighting (we bring our own), we can rather quickly capture quite a few images of one or two poses to obtain the look we want.
Once you book a session, we will consult with you (the subject or the procurer of the portrait) about the desired outcome.
We may suggest clothing styles and possible colors, but we actually prefer the subject to select what they themselves see as portraying their style.
In our pre-session consultation we will want to know something about the subject's personality, background, career, or special traits. Are there certain "props" that should be included? (For example: a retired golfer might want to be holding a club; a musician, their instrument...)
Although not necessary, a simple prop can often help tell a person's story if it is an integral part of their life.
Of course! Although primarily aimed at single portraits, we fully expect some to want to be depicted as a couple. Couples sessions will take a little longer, and there is a slight extra charge for the second face retouching work.
(Note however there may not be more than two subjects -- these are not family portraits.)
We will sort through all the captured images and select a small set of images (up to 5) that we feel have the most potential. If you wish, those images will be shared with you as proofs, and you may select your favorite. Otherwise you can leave it to us to make a good choice.
(The proof images will not have any retouching, adjustments or background -- they are only used to judge the subject's expression)
For our CLASSIC product it will usually take up to 4 weeks.
For the HEIRLOOM product it's more difficult to predict because the frames we use are made to order. There could be additional delays depending on the complexity of the carving and finishing of the frame, and how busy the production workshop is. Best to estimate 8-10 weeks.
Certainly! Additional copies of a Goldleaf Portrait are available at significantly reduced cost. The cost will be lowest if the copies are ordered in advance.
Duplicates are exactly that -- same image, background, and editing -- with the exception that you may choose CLASSIC duplicates for an HEIRLOOM order.
Certainly. While we understand that most people don't care to involve themselves with technical details, we have put together a separate page of deeper insights under the "Product Information" menu entry. The brief videos showing the frame production process are themselves quite fascinating!
Absolutely! A donation is made for each completed order:
CLASSIC: $100 donation
HEIRLOOM: $200 donation
We send Square invoices for each charge. Payments may be cash, check or credit card.
Charges are split as follows:
10% to book session
30% at time of session
40% on proof approval
20% + sales tax on delivery
Because all work is custom, none of these fees are refundable.