1.  How do I get started?

Gather your pictures, and choose one you would like to be used as the source image.  Either scan the photographs and e-mail them to us, or back-them up on a CD and mail us a back-up copy of the CD.  You can also mail us your original photographs and we will scan them (at a cost of $25.00 for every 50 pictures).  Please indicate which picture you have chosen to be used as the source image.  Please send us an e-mail with your postal code/zip code so we can calculate the correct shipping charges.  After you receive a preview copy of the mosaic from us by e-mail and are satisfied, an order link will be e-mailed to you to complete your order.

2.  How many pictures are required for the mosaic?

You can use a large range of pictures from a single picture to a few hundred.  If only 1 picture is provided, then it will be used as the source image as well as all the cell images, creating a single-cell mosaic.  Typically we are given between 50 to 300 pictures to create the mosaic.  The more pictures the better, but we suggest that for best results, you supply at least 50 pictures.  Very good results can be achieved with around 100-200 pictures.

3.  Will you accept photographs as well as digital pictures on a CD/DVD?

Yes, we can accept pictures you provide to us either way, but it is preferred if you can send us your pictures in digital format because there is no chance of having your originals damaged or lost while in transit to us or from you.  If you wish to mail a CD/DVD, do not send your original back-up disc; please make a duplicate copy to send.  The best way to send your pictures is by e-mail.  We accept e-mail's up to 8MB in size.  If you send us your photographs to be digitally scanned, then there is a cost of $25.00 for every 50 photographs you send.  The pictures can be any size up to 8"x10", and should not be in a frame.

4.  What resolution (DPI) do I need to scan my pictures at?

For the source image, it is recommended you scan at 300 or 600dpi (dots per inch).  For the multiple images that will be used as the cells, it is recommended you scan at 150 dpi to keep the file sizes low.  Save the files as .jpg extension.  We accept other graphic file formats such as .bmp, or .gif, but JPG files are the preferred format.

5.  How many times will my pictures be repeated in mosaic?

A mosaic that we create will typically have between 1500 and 3000 cells.  Depending on how many pictures you provide, each picture may be repeated in the mosaic; some more than others.  The more pictures you provide, the less they will be repeated.  When generating the mosaic, we specify that any two of the same picture cannot be placed beside each other, but they may be in close proximity to one another.

6.  How big are the cells?

For the 10"x15" and 16"x20" size mosaic pictures, the cells are typically 0.4" in width.  For the 24"x36" size mosaic pictures, the cells can be larger, and are typically between 0.5" and 0.8" in width.  At the time we design your mosaic picture, we look for a balance to keep the cells are large as possible, while maintaining enough cells to properly display the source image.  All of the cell images will have the same orientation (portrait, or landscape), this being determined on how your provided images are supplied.  For example, if most of your pictures are taken in a landscape (wide) fashion, then the cells will be in a landscape configuration.  The minority of your pictures in a portrait orientation will then be rotated and cropped instead of being displayed sideways on the mosaic image.

7.  Can you provide the mosaic in a frame?

To keep shipping costs low, we do not provide custom framing or any other mounting options.

8.  Is your site secure for taking orders?

Yes, we use PayPal; who provides a secure checkout site for maximum security when your provide your personal payment, and address information.  We do not process your credit card orders directly; PayPal provides this as a service to us.  For safety reasons, do not e-mail us any credit card information; this will only be required on the secure ordering page.

9.  What forms of payment do you accept?

Through PayPal, we accept all major credit cards, as well as direct payment from your own PayPal account.  You do not have to have an account with PayPal, but still be able to pay by credit card.  You can mail a cheque but please contact us first for our mailing address.  The mosaic will be printed and shipped only after your cheque has been deposted and the funds clear our bank account.

10.  What if I do not have an account with PayPal?

You can still pay by credit card on the secure checkout site screen.  At the checkout screen, under the heading "If you do not currently have a PayPal account, click here"; click on that button and continue to enter your shipping and payment information.

11.  How long does it take to process my order?

After receiving your photographs, it will take 1 or 2 days to create your custom mosaic.  When ready, a preview image of the mosaic will be e-mailed to you for approval.  If you are satisfied with the image, proceed to our order page and purchase your custom order.  It will then take approximately 2-3 days to print and ship out your order.  An e-mail will be sent to you as soon as your order ships.  Shipping time will vary depending on your location, and how you would like your order shipped (air/ground, standard/expedited).

12.  How much will it cost to ship my order?

Shipping and handling costs are calculated for every order.  This way, you are only charged the correct amount instead of paying an inflated "flat fee".  We need your postal code/zip code to calculate an accurate rate.

13.  What if I am not satisfied with the mosaic picture?

To ensure that you are satisfied with the mosaic, we will e-mail you a preview image of the final picture when the mosaic has been created.  If you are satisfied with the image, then place your order under the Order section of our website.  By placing your order, you are indicating that you are satisfied with the mosaic, and you understand the terms of site site; the first term being that all sales are final.  This is a custom product; generally custom items are non-refundable.