All of our fine art paintings start with a photograph. This image can come from the client as a digital file or hard copy for scanning. We also shoot events in and around the San Francisco Bay Area. Drivers at these local events will have a variety of images to choose from in selecting their painting.
The digital file is processed on the computer where any adjustments needed to optimize the image are made. From here the image is used as a reference for us to create the painting using a digital stylus and tablet. These tools replicate a paintbrush. Depending on the amount of detail and size of the image the painting can take from over five hours.
Once we are satisfied with the quality of the image it is printed on museum grade canvas or paper using archival grade inks. A final treatment is hand applied by brush to the canvas picture that both seals the image and give the surface a three-dimensional depth equal to an oil painting. Even under close inspection it would be hard to tell this image was not painted directly on the canvas.
Which raises the question: why not just paint the picture in the first place? The digital painting method allows for a totally new style of image. The blending of colors could only be attained with this method. In addition our images are more robust. Under identical conditions our painting will outlast pictures created with traditional oils. In fact testing of these media indicates a fade resistant life of over 100 years. For images displayed under glass this number extends to over 230. Your painting truly becomes a family heirloom to be shared and enjoyed for generations.
Ordering Information
Our photo content and fulfilment can be found at:
For the first time we will have a booth at the 2009 Palo Alto Concours. This years Concours will feature both the Ford Mustang and the Porsche Marque.
See you there.
Photos taken on saturday will be posted on our other site by sunday night. You will be able to find the photos here:
Check back here for updates.
Do to circumstances beyond our control we are unable to use the Printroom.com website to host the event photos.
The images can be found at:
I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Stephen
Less than a week to go!! Very exciting. For those of you who want to order a print of their car head on over to my photography site:
See you at the track.
Motoring Memories is the culmination of two passions: Auto-sports and photography. Not long ago, after years of driving “average” cars, I purchased a Mazda Miata. I have always enjoyed driving but this car took the experience to a whole new level. But playing in the street was not the best place to enjoy my sports car. I soon discovered HPDE / track events and experienced the thrill of driving on two of the greatest tracks in the country, Laguna Seca and Sears Point.
In short order I worked my way through the ranks and started driving with the advanced group. It was there I discovered open passing and realized this was one step away from racing. Well I took that step in 2007 and earned my SCCA license. Nothing matches the thrill of wheel-to-wheel racing. There is no looking back.
At the same time a friend was selling a beloved car and I took a few digital photos for him. Before printing them I played with the images some. All the PhotoShop filters looked like, well, PhotoShop filters. I ended up using a program called Painter to create the images. Using the photo for reference I painted with different virtual brushes and mediums and came up with the finish product you see in the samples page. I call them "High Performance Portraits.
My friend was thrilled and I am sure you will be too!
Stephen Harris-Smith