FAQs

 If you don't find the answer to your question, feel free to email me .

I'm very interested in getting a specialized painted portrait of my pet.  How do go about ordering one?  

Before submitting a request, it's a good idea to read through the website and see what products are offered, find out what kind of images to send for the best portrait, and finally, how to submit photos.  You may send me questions at anytime at lisak@hippawhooray.com, however.  Once you are ready to order, you can submitted your order request form.   Within three business days, I will be in contact to let you know I received your images and to ask any questions I have before getting started.

I noticed your order form says no money is collected at this time.  How do I pay for my portrait?

Once images and the time frame have been approved, I will then email you an invoice.   You have two option of how to pay.   You can pay either by using PayPal or by using Chase Person-To- Person Quickpay (this is the preferred method).  You do not need to have a Chase account to use this service with me.  It is secure, fast, safe and you don't see the other person's account info and vice versa.  Click on the link above for more information on that.  Whichever payment method you choose, the payment will be made in full and include the shipping costs.  (See return and refund policy below.)  If any costs are incurred during the making of the portrait, those are to be paid before shipping of your portrait.

I don't feel comfortable filling out an online form.  Can I still order a portrait?

Absolutely!  Please note that the form is safe and secure and your email will not be spammed by me or anyone else.  However, if you are still uncomfortable, you can email the information from the form to me at lisak@hippawhooray.com.

What format should my photo be in?

Photos should be sent to me in .jpeg, .gif, .psd, or .tiff format.  Sending the highest resolution, (300 dpi or a file size of 1MB or bigger) quality photo works best.  The better the image, the more detail I can see when I create your painting.  If I can't use the photo due to the lack of resolution, I'll let you know before we start a project.  It is a good idea to send me more than one photo.   Please see Tips for Submitting your Photos.
  
I'm not a very good photographer.  Do you have any tips for shooting?

As a matter of fact, I made a whole page about it.  You can access it here:  Tips for shooting great pet photos!

What if I only have a hard copy of a photo?

You can either scan it at a high resolution or you can mail it to me.  Mail your photos with return postage and envelope and they will be returned.

I would love a painting with both my pets but I don't have a good photo with both of them.  Can you combine photos?

Absolutely!  See Tips For Submitting PhotosTips For Submitting Photos for more information.

I can't decide which photo to use.  Could you help me decide?

Absolutely!  I can help figure out which one will work best for your painting.

Can I choose a color and background?


Yes!  Currently, I do not have an extensive list of backgrounds to choose from, but if you see one I've used before, or have an idea of what you'd like, we can figure something out from there.  You can also choose some colors you'd like to see in the painting.  It's also ok if you're not sure and leave that up to the artist.


How long will it take to receive my portrait?

It could take 2 or 3 weeks for me to finish a painting (with a minimum of one week) and one week to be shipped and received.  However, I take orders as they are received and I'll be able to tell you an estimate before committing.  If you need it sooner, there will be a $75 fee to bump your order ahead to the front.

Will I receive progress updates and a final proof before you send my painting?

Yes.  I will send you at least one progress update before sending your digital proof for your approval.  If there is something you'd like to change, that will be your opportunity to let me know.  If after your free design tweeks you are still not satisfied, I charge a $60 per hour design fee, with a minimum of one hour.  Keep in mind that making any redesigns will increase the time it takes to receive your painting, and can take up to 3 extra weeks depending on the complexity of the request.  So, it is very important, if you want to make any changes when I send you your proof, that you be as specific as possible.

What if I'm not happy with my painting? 

I offer satisfaction guaranteed and will be happy to rework your project till your painting is just right.  You may cancel your painting any time during the design phase.  However, 50% of the deposit will not be returned in order to cover time and expenses.  If your painting arrives damaged or flawed, I will replace your painting or refund your money 100%.  I will not be able to replace or refund if there is nothing damaged or flawed.

How are paintings packaged and shipped?

Your painting will be shipped in a strong flat box with bubble wrap if it's stretched, between two pieces of cardboard, if it's on art paper, or in a mail tub if it's rolled.  If you are local, you can come and pick it up.  If not, it will be shipped either USPS Priority or Fed Ex.  If you need it sooner, then I would recommend next day delivery and paying the extra fees.