Frequently
Asked Questions |
- How can I send my pictures to you?
- I prefer to have pictures sent via email. If you only have hard
copies of your pictures, you can scan them or have them scanned. Your local library
will usually scan them at little cost or maybe you have a friend or relative with a
scanner. This ensures your originals are kept safe with you. I will also
accept hard copies through the mail. I will return the picture once your portrait is
complete.
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- My stillborn looks very swollen, can you still do a
portrait?
- Yes. I have made several portraits of stillborn babies that
were very swollen. Sometimes facial features are very hard to distinguish, but I
will work with you to determine how the portrait will look. If you have other
children, it is extremely helpful for me to see their newborn photos, expecially where
they are sleeping. If you have no other children, I can also use your and the
father's newborn pictures. Please know I will not "copy" the reference
pictures. The baby will have his own look yet resemble relatives.
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- My baby was naked in all my pictures, can you add a
blanket or clothing?
- Yes. I can make it appear the baby was wrapped in a blanket.
Some people like to see the baby in a simple gown. Maybe you have one in your
memory box I can see for an example. I can add that too. If desired, I can
also create a soft blanket snuggled around the baby. Viewing warmth often gives you
a sense of comfort and ease.
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- My daughter is so sad since the loss of her baby.
Would a portrait help her?
- I suggest talking with her about it first. For some, these
portraits provide a doorway for healing. It is a physical object to she can always
go to for comfort and rememberance. I have found many mothers to welcome these
portraits with open arms. It is a personal and sensitive choice, so discuss it
together.
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- My stillborn has red spots and brusing, do you draw this
in the portrait?
- Not generally. I draw creamy skin over these areas. If
you want areas "exactly as they were" we can discuss that.
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- My stillborn's lips are very dark red, can you lighten
this?
- Yes. I see this a lot. I will lighten them up and give
them moist highlights.
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- My stillborn son's mouth is open in every picture can you
close it?
- Yes. Normally it is not a problem to make his mouth look softly
closed.
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- He seems so "all alone" what can you do to
help?
- Sometimes, I can add a soft teddy bear either nestled in his arms or
snuggled next to him. This will make it feel like he is not alone.
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- I only have a picture of her hand, what can you do with
this?
- Portraits of a single hand or foot can be made into a very pleasing
portrait. We could even get more creative and place that tiny hand into your and
your husband's hand, if you wish.
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- My daughter was born early in my second trimester, and I
can't find anyone who will draw her at this stage. Will you do it?
- Yes. It is hard to find an artist who will draw stillborn
babies born before 30 weeks. Babies born earlier than about 22-23 weeks will have
very red, translucent skin. Often you can see their eyes because you can see through
the skin. I can draw closed eyelids to give them a peaceful sleeping appearance.
Again, baby pictures from your family (mother, father, sisters, brothers) will help
me define features.
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- Will you show the original of my stillborn to anyone?
- No. Absolutely not. Your photos are safe and stay private
with me. I never share any photos at any time. I never post even the drawn
portraits without expressed permission from the parents. If you wish to have your
drawn portrait added to my memorial page, I will be happy to do that.
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- I am so sad that I can not share the pictures of my
stillborn with others. It seems to scare everyone. I want so badly for others
to be able to see her.
- I can help you with this. It is my goal to bring comfort and
joy to all who view the portrait of your child. I work carefully to create a memory
of your daughter which would not otherwise be possible. This is a portrait you can
proudly place in your home and say, "this is my daughter".
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- What is the best size for my stillborn portrait?
- I suggest an 8x10, especially if you are wanting a full body
portrait. This provides a pleasant size for a memory spot in your home. If you
are wanting a smaller portrait, say of just the face or a hand or foot, the 5x7 size is
good too.
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- How are people reacting to your portraits?
- Let me share with you some of what I am hearing: "she is
so beautiful and peaceful looking", "it looks beautiful!", "wow, it
took my breath away, that is amazing and perfect", "I am very pleased with your
work" , "truly a treasure", "I can't wait to display it",
"you created a memory we would not otherwise have had".
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- Can I discuss this with you?
- Of course. Please feel free to email
or call me (870-637-2499) anytime. Even if you just want to share your story.
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- How can I send payment?
- I accept payment through PayPal where you can use your PayPal account
or your credit card.
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