Frequently Asked Questions - Canvas
How can I send you my photo?
If it's a photographic print, you can post it to us. Just slip the photo between some thin cardboard in the envelope, and make sure you mark it "Handle with care". We'll return it to you with your finished canvas.
If it's a digital photo, that's even easier. For files under 3Mb in size, simply email it to us.
For files over 3Mb in size, we recommend www.mailbigfile.com. It's a free, reliable file transfer website for very large files.
Do I need an SLR camera to take a good enough photo for canvas?
No, absolutely not. Modern compact cameras take great shots. And our Enhancement service is available to make the most of every photo.
Recently we even printed a lovely canvas from a mobile phone camera!
How big can my digital photographs be printed onto canvas?
That depends on numerous factors - the camera, the sharpness, the lighting, the colour, etc...
To begin with, here is a very general guide:
| Camera Size | Possible Canvas Size |
| 3 Megapixels | 12x16" (30x40cm) |
| 4 Megapixels | 16x24" (40x60cm) |
| 5 Megapixels | 20x30" (50x75cm) |
| 6 Megapixels | 24x36" (60x90cm) |
| 7 Megapixels | 30x40" (75x100cm) |
| 9 Megapixels | 40x60" (100x150cm) |
| 13 Megapixels | 48x72" (120x180cm) |
The above table assumes that you have:
> Set your camera to its highest possible resolution;
> Set your camera to its maximum quality setting;
> Taken the photo in satisfactory lighting conditions;
> Achieved sharp focus on your subject.
If your photo is out of focus, or dimly lit, or not captured at the highest quality, your reproduction size will be limited.
If you wish to zoom in and use only part of the photo, your size will also be restricted.
Of course, every photo is different, so each one is assessed on its merits. Feel free to send us your image, and we'll make a recommendation.
Are there ways to increase my print size?
We specialise in image enhancement, to give you the best possible result from your photo. Where extra enlargement is desired, several methods can be employed.
In some cases, a dimly lit colour photo can look spectacular as a black and white or sepia toned canvas. Single-colour prints can often be enlarged further than their originals.
Another trick is to introduce an artistic effect, known as a "filter", to the photo. As well as allowing for larger reproduction, this can turn your photo into an unusual and striking artwork.
And we will be more than happy to offer you some tips for taking better, sharper photos with your camera in the future. Just ask!
What shape can my canvas be printed in?
Almost any square or rectangular shape.
There's no need to be restricted by the standard rectangular photograph that your camera takes. We can print square, panoramic and even very tall canvases.
Have a look at some of the different shapes we've printed on the examples page.
Can you make changes to my photo, such as removing some clutter in the background, or correcting red-eye?
Absolutely. See our Retouching page for ideas, and talk to us about a quote.
If I have a photographic print, can I scan it and send you the file, instead of posting the photo?
It's better not to. We use a very high quality professional scanner, that produces far better scans than the average home scanner. We pride ourselves in producing the best possible reproduction, so we'd rather scan it ourselves.
How long will my canvas take to be printed and delivered?
Our usual turnaround time is no more than two weeks, and sometimes sooner.
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