Portrait FAQs

Clear answers to the most common questions about custom digital portraits

These FAQs help you understand what’s included, what to expect, and how the portrait process works from start to finish.

Do you draw the portraits digitally?

Yes — all portraits are hand‑drawn digitally, line by line.

Nothing is automated, filtered, or AI‑generated. Every portrait is created with care, expression, and a soft, modern aesthetic.

Do you include clothing graphics or intricate patterns in the portrait?

I draw each portrait by hand to capture a strong likeness of your photo, including many of the small details that make it unique. When it comes to clothing patterns, graphics, jewelry, accessories, or intricate hair styles, I include as much detail as I reasonably can. Some elements can be drawn exactly as shown, while others may be interpreted or simplified depending on their complexity and visibility in the photo. My goal is always to reflect the overall look and feel of the original image while keeping the artwork cohesive with my hand‑drawn style.

You can request the removal of small elements—such as a nose ring, a shirt graphic, or a piece of jewelry—as long as it doesn’t change the structure of the portrait. I’m always happy to adjust these details when possible. To get an idea of the transformation of a photo to a digital portrait, visit my Portrait Gallery.

Will I receive a physical print?

No. All portraits are delivered as digital files so you can print, frame, or share them however you like.

What kind of photo should I upload?

For the best results, please upload:

A clear, well‑lit photo
No filters
Natural lighting preferred
Chest‑up or upper‑body photos only
For couples: both people must be in the same photo

If a photo isn’t suitable, I’ll kindly request a new one.

Can you change facial expressions or hairstyles?

No. I cannot:

Make someone smile
Change their expression
Redraw facial features
Create a new hairstyle
Add accessories not in the photo
Invent new clothing patterns

These require creating new visual information and are not part of my portrait offerings.

What small adjustments are included?

Each portrait includes 1–2 small adjustments, such as:

Slight color changes
Small tweaks to eyebrow or lip color
Slight repositioning on the canvas
Removal of a piece of jewelry or shirt graphic

These are light refinements that do not alter the overall structure of the portrait or require redrawing the portrait.

Learn more: Revisions & Proofs

Can I request changes after I approve the proof?

No. Once you approve your portrait, the artwork is considered complete and cannot be revised. Any changes would require a new portrait order.

What file types will I receive?

You’ll receive:

JPG (white background)
PNG (transparent background)
3200 × 4000 px, 300 DPI

Both are high‑resolution and ready for printing.

How long does it take?

Your proof will be delivered to your email within 3–5 business days.

Final files are delivered shortly after you approve your proof.

What is your refund policy?

You may request a full refund before work begins.

Work begins as soon as you submit your photo and I start reviewing it.

Once your photo is submitted, the order becomes non‑refundable.

Full details: Refunds & Cancellations

Can I use my portrait commercially?

Not without written permission.

Your portrait includes personal use rights only.

Commercial use includes:

Selling prints
Using the artwork for a business
Using it in branding or marketing
Uploading it to print‑on‑demand sites

Full details: Usage Rights

Will my portrait be shared in your portfolio?

Only if you’re comfortable.

You can choose whether to allow this on your order form.

You may change your preference at any time by emailing support@thecalligraphersletter.com.

Can I edit or modify the artwork myself?

No. To protect the integrity of the work:

You may not recolor, crop, or alter the artwork
You may not add filters or effects
You may not use AI tools to modify or extend the artwork

If you need changes, please request a revision before approval.

Where can I print my portrait?

Portraits look best on matte photo paper.

Recommended places:

Walgreens Photo
Shutterfly Photo
Mpix or Printique for premium quality

You can also print at home or any only printing service that offers matte photo paper. Read more in the Printing Guide.

What if I’m not sure whether my photo will work?

You’re always welcome to ask.

If your photo isn’t suitable, I’ll kindly request a new one before beginning your portrait.

What if I’m not sure which portrait listing I need?

I’m happy to help you choose the right option.

You can reach me anytime at support@thecalligraphersletter.com or through my contact form.