Life Illustrated begins with a photograph you upload. Andrea creates a hand drawn pen and ink illustration, interpreting your image with care and sensitivity.

Once complete, the drawing is carefully digitised and colour is added by hand using a digital process, preserving the warmth and character of the original drawing while preparing it for fine art printing.

As part of your commission, you will receive the original pen and ink drawing, sent separately.

Once your photo is received, Andrea typically completes the artwork within around three working days, depending on current workload.

You’ll then receive a watermarked proof for approval before it moves into production.

Delivery times vary depending on whether you choose print only or mounted and framed, but full timescales are outlined below.

We want you to feel completely comfortable with your artwork. You’ll receive a watermarked proof before anything is printed or framed, giving you the chance to review it first.

If it doesn’t feel right at that stage, you can request minor changes such as tone and or a small addition or, indeed, stop the process and receive a full refund.

Once you approve the artwork, it moves into production and, as it’s then being created specifically for you, we’re unable to offer refunds beyond that point.

Life Illustrated artworks are produced as high quality fine art prints using a giclée process for excellent detail and colour depth. Prints are made on premium textured cotton paper.

Framed options are finished in white, black, or natural frames and include a clean off white mount and acrylic safety glazing.

Orientation is chosen to suit your image, and sizes shown refer to the artwork size, with mount and frame added around this.

In most cases, you can expect:

• Original artwork only to arrive within around 7 to 13 working days from photo upload
• Framed artworks to arrive within around 12 to 20 working days from photo upload.

These timeframes include the creation of your 'Life Illustration' and delivery, and assume your photo is received promptly and the outline sketch is approved without delay.

Every portrait is created by hand, so timings are always approximate. If you’re ordering for a special occasion or working to a specific date, we’re very happy to advise before you place your order.

Yes, Life Illustrated makes a thoughtful and personal gift.

You don’t need to upload a photo at checkout. Simply place your order and let us know it’s a gift.

When you’re ready, you can email us the photo and any details, or we can contact the recipient directly on your behalf, without spoiling the surprise.

If you’d like to include a short gift message, just let us know and we’ll take care of it.

Will I need to pay customs duties or import taxes?

If you are ordering from outside the United Kingdom, your country may apply import duties, VAT, or handling fees when your artwork arrives.

Every country sets its own rules and thresholds, and these can change over time. Any charges applied by customs are the responsibility of the recipient.

I always ensure that your order is documented correctly and dispatched with care, but local import charges are outside my control.

How much might I be charged?

It depends entirely on your country’s regulations and the value of your order.

Some countries have higher tax-free thresholds, meaning smaller orders may arrive without additional charges. Others may apply VAT or handling fees regardless of value.

Because these rules vary, I’m not able to estimate or guarantee what may be charged at your border.

Where can I check my country’s customs rules?

The most reliable place to check is directly with your country’s customs authority. Here are some official resources that may help:

• United States – U.S. Customs & Border Protection

• Canada – Canada Border Services Agency

• Australia – Australian Border Force

• New Zealand – New Zealand Customs Service

• European Union – European Commission Taxation & Customs

Regulations can change, so I always recommend checking official guidance if you’re unsure.

Do you offer Delivered Duty Paid (DDP)?

At present, orders are shipped using standard international delivery terms. This means any customs duties or import taxes are collected by your local authorities, if applicable.

If you have specific questions before ordering, you’re always welcome to contact me directly.

Will my order be clearly labelled?

Yes. All artwork is professionally packed and dispatched with accurate customs documentation describing the contents as fine art prints or framed artwork.

Everything is prepared carefully to help ensure smooth delivery.

I’m worried about unexpected fees, what should I do?

If you’re unsure about your country’s import rules, I recommend checking with your local customs office before placing your order.

I want you to feel confident and comfortable when ordering from me, so if you’d like to discuss anything first, please just get in touch.