Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get started?

It's easy! Simply start by asking me about your idea. You can email photos to  maria@mariawaye.com or upload your photos here, and I'll reply with personal feedback and offer ideas. 

Ask a question and upload your photos

How much is my custom portrait going to be?

Your portrait is completely unique, so the best way to easily find out what options work best for you is to upload your photos and ask me for a custom quote.

Ask me about your portrait

Want a size and layout not listed here? Need combining, changing or adjusting your reference photos?
Please feel free to contact me so I can get a better idea of your needs and give a custom quote with options for you to consider. Usually I can accommodate simple changes and combining for no additional amount, except when it's significantly more complex; in such situations, a 5-10% additional amount may be required, but you and I will chat about it first so you can be completely comfortable and clear with all details of your investment before we begin. 

Ask me about your portrait

How does this all work?

It's easy! You can just email me at  maria@mariawaye.com or upload your photos here and I'll guide you through the steps.

Ask a question and upload your photos

See how this process works

5 easy steps:
1. Start by asking me about your idea. You can email photos to maria@mariawaye.com or upload your photos here
2. I reply with my thoughts and offer options that work well for you.
3. If you like the idea, you let me know and I help set up your order.
4. I paint the portrait and email you photos of the painting for approval.
5. You love it and I ship it to you. For detailed steps of the process, click here.

See how this process works

How long does it take?

Please feel free to contact me for a specific time estimate. It varies from 8 to 16 weeks depending on my schedule, your portrait's complexity and shipping location. If you need it sooner, please be sure to ask so I can do my best to make you happy!

Ask me about your portrait

Can you change or combine photos?

I'm happy to accommodate most requests for simple changes and combinations, such as removing something from the background, darkening your eyebrows or changing your shirt color.

If it's something complex, please ask me whether it's possible so I can give customized feedback. For very complex portraits, upgrades are available for an additional 10-20% of the total investment, considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact me and I'll have a look at your photos. 

Ask me a question!

Can I order a size not listed? How about a different layout?

Yes, I'd love to see your photos so I can confirm whether it's possible!  Please contact me for recommendations and custom options based on your needs. 

I'd love to listen and help you set up a special order not listed on my options chart, especially in situations such as:

- complex group portraits 

- complicated compositions made of more than 6 photos

- requests to paint things that aren't there in your photo

- fitting more people/pets than I usually do into the client's requested size constraint

- painting from low quality or blurry photos 

- if you need sizes that I can't buy locally, your portrait panel will be special ordered from the U.S. 

You and I will talk first to make sure you're absolutely completely happy, satisfied and clear with the details before we begin, so you know exactly what you're getting, and confident that we're on the same page and I completely understand your needs

 Please contact me for a custom quote.  

You can also email photos to maria@mariawaye.com

upload your photos here

How about shipping?

Secure, Trackable Shipping for Your Valuable Artwork

Yes, I ship internationally!

Request Shipping Rates and Transit Time

After you place an order, you'll receive a message from me to say hello and thank you, and to let you know when your custom portrait will be ready for approval.


You'll be glad to know that when shipping to the US and Canada, every custom portrait includes tracking and delivery confirmation, and every custom portrait over $150 comes with signature confirmation to ensure your painting arrives safely.


Your painting will arrive safely and securely lots of stiff cardboard padding. Where possible, I use recycled/reclaimed materials to pass the savings on to you. International shipping outside of the US and Canada: I'm happy to ship to worldwide art lovers.


If you'd like a shipping quote, please let me know your location, so that I can reply with the most accurate shipping rate.

Request Shipping Rates and Transit Time

Please note, customs duty fees or applicable taxes on international purchases, are the sole responsibility of the purchaser. For orders outside the US and Canada, allow extra time for the item to go through customs inspection. VAT or customs duties are not included in shipping charges. Please contact your customs office for fees as you may need to pay them upon delivery.


UK Customers: Please be advised that original art purchases may be charged a 20% VAT by your customs office, and there may also be a handling fee from the UK post office. Combined Shipping: I can combine shipping costs on similarly sized paintings, please contact me if you have questions for multiple purchases, so that I can reply with the most accurate shipping rate.

Request Shipping Rates and Transit Time