From Photo to Fine Art
In 3 Simple Steps
I will render a watercolor painting of your home from color photos provided by you. Once you have chosen a size, I will email a preliminary sketch of the painting and then an image of the final drawing. Once approved, the painting will begin. When your portrait is complete, arrangements will be made for delivery, and shipping is free of charge. It’s that easy. Check out the video at the bottom of this page to see the process from photo to completed painting.
To get started, you can fill out the "Contact Form" or email craig@craighooverart.com and I will respond right away. Just let me know the best way to reach you (phone, text, or email) and the best day(s) and time of day. I am happy to discuss your house portrait ideas or answer any questions you may have along the way. We can figure it out together.
STEP 1

Send Me Your Reference Photos
Provide at least one photo as you would like your home to be portrayed in your house portrait. Multiple photos are welcomed, including additional angles and details of the architecture (windows, doors, siding, landscaping, etc.). The more reference photos, the more accurately I can capture the personality of your home. If you prefer, photo shoots for sites in the Baltimore area can be done by me for a small fee. Just ask. If you would rather take the photos yourself, click “Photo Tips” for some guidance on how to do so.
Upload your images with the "Contact Form" or email your photos to craig@craighooverart.com. Alternatively, you can send photo prints by regular mail to my address included on the contact form. Please include a 25% deposit by check or online payment to start the process.
STEP 2

I'll Create a Preliminary Sketch
Once I receive your deposit, the pencil sketch can begin. This is the design phase. At this point you have selected the dimensions for your final portrait. Click “Dimensions / Price” for those options. Using the reference photos, I will capture the most appealing perspective, composition, and details. Artistic license may be used to remove any objects obstructing the features of your home, such as power lines, telephone poles, trees, hedges, etc. Within a week or two, you’ll receive a digital image of the pencil sketch to approve the design. This is your opportunity to suggest any desired revisions to the composition.
STEP 3

You Approve the Final Drawing
Based upon the approved sketch, I will prepare a more detailed drawing that will serve as the base of your painting. Within a week or two, you’ll receive a digital image of the drawing for final approval. This is your last opportunity to suggest only minor changes to the details of the drawing. Once the drawing has been finalized and the painting begins, changes cannot be accommodated based on the permanent characteristics of the watercolor medium. Focusing on the details at the sketch and drawing phases will yield a beautiful house portrait.
YOUR FINISHED PAINTING

...and We're Done!
Your original work of art will take approximately 3-4 weeks to complete, starting from the date your deposit is received. The duration, from photos to delivery, depends on how quickly you make decisions, and also how busy I am. I pride myself on making deadlines, so if you have a specific date in mind please let me know. When I am done I will send you a digital image. The remaining balance is due when the painting is complete and you are entirely satisfied with it.
