Frequently Asked Questions

How do I take/choose the reference photos?

Katie works from photos (old and new) which must be CLEAR (not pixelated when you zoom in).

As an example when you zoom in you should be able to see detail such as the direction of the fur without it being blurred/pixelated. 

It's also important to choose/take photos that are colour accurate and that represent their personalities.

Read more below.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes - To book in it’s a 25% non refundable deposit to secure your space. Deposits are non refundable except for the rare chance that I, myself, am unable to complete your portrait, in which case I (Katie Hester) will give a full refund. The remaining balance is then due once the portrait has been completed before posting. 

Postage & Packaging
Cost and is it discreet?

(Uk only) P & P is an additional £15 - it is shipped via Royal Mail next day special delivery which is tracked, insured and signed. 

Overseas postage costs are to be confirmed with me depending on where you are in the world. 

The packaging Katie uses is discrete with only your name and address on the front as well as “DO NOT BEND & HANDLE WITH CARE” labels on it. The same labels on the back with her name & address incase of return. There is no mention of what could be inside so it can be kept a secret/surprise if the recipient is at home.

She is however more than happy to post to any address you choose as long as someone is there to receive the delivery.

Katie uses cardboard envelopes with the portrait sandwiched inside two more layers of cardboard for protection as it is posted flat. 

Additional Shipping Information

​All artworks are shipped in a hard cardboard packaging to ensure safe delivery. 

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Artwork will be posted via  Royal Mail Special Delivery, tracked, insured and signed for customers within the UK. 

​

Artwork shipped internationally will be sent via courier, please contact me for further information. 

​

Buyer is solely responsible for any custom fees incurred for their country.

Estimated average shipping times:

​

• UK 1-3  Business days*

• Europe 3-5 Business days*

• USA & Canada 7-10 Business days*

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*Delivery times may vary so please add a note to your order if the artwork is required by a particular date. I will do my best to get it to you within your specified timeframe (service not guarenteed).

What is your timescale and the process once the portrait has been started? 

Each commission varies in timescale from 1 - 3+ weeks to complete depending on the subject and what the portrait entails. So please state whic date you require the finished portrait by in order to get it completed in time.

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Before starting the portrait Katie will contact you to let you know that she will be starting soon. Then she will start your portrait and send you photo updates via social media, email or WhatsApp  (you decide) of the progress stages so that you can see how it comes together. Once the portrait is completed Katie will send you the final photo of it including her watermark. If you are 100% happy, the remaining balance is then due. The portrait will then be removed from the drawing board and packed up ready to post. As soon as it has been posted Katie will send you the Royal Mail tracking number - Special delivery.

What does the price list include?

The price list is for a single subject head to neck. If you require full body it is only suitable on A4 or above in size which is an additional 25%. So please specify in the contact form and Katie will give you an accurate quote. 

She can do other sizes to suit you so let her know if you require anything in particular.

There is no background included, however if you do require a basic background please state this in your request as Katie may be able to do it. 

No frames or mounts are provided for pet portrait at this time.

If you have a specific idea in mind for a composition or would like the portrait to be with various extras please let me know. 

Additional Shipping Information

​All artworks are shipped in a hard cardboard packaging to ensure safe delivery. 

​

Artwork will be posted via  Royal Mail Special Delivery, tracked, insured and signed for customers within the UK. 

​

Artwork shipped internationally will be sent via courier, please contact me for further information. 

​

Buyer is solely responsible for any custom fees incurred for their country.

Estimated average shipping times:

​

• UK 1-3  Business days*

• Europe 3-5 Business days*

• USA & Canada 7-10 Business days*

​

*Delivery times may vary so please add a note to your order if the artwork is required by a particular date. I will do my best to get it to you within your specified timeframe (service not guarenteed).

Returns Policy

All artworks are sent in strong packaging which is capable of withstanding long shipping journeys.

Should any damage occur during transit, the item will be replaced provided that you supply the following details:

• Photographs of the damaged packaging (unopened), the damaged item (once opened) - MUST be sent to enquiries@khesterfineart.co.uk within 48h of receipt. 

Any damage to the packaging or product which is not reported within 48h of receipt will not be covered by our guarantee.