FAQ

Where do the images come from?

They are all produced from photographs taken by James Clay over the past 25 years.  They are all “as found”.   By that I mean I do not arrange or stage the photographs, and very rarely do I make any post photographic adjustments to the images.  Occasionally it will be necessary to adjust the brightness or contrast prior to printing to get the correct, as seen colour onto the canvas.  I use Nikon and Canon camera equipment.

How are the canvases produced?

They are produced by a professional digital printing company who produce the images to order.  They use industry leading wide format printing equipment, with UV pigmented ink.  The canvas is all pH neutral “archival media” quality brilliant white.  Weight is 345gsm.  The canvas is laminated after printing which gives a protective layer over the image.

Can I order any size I like?

Most of my photographs were taken with a view to being a specific size.  A few of the images in the galleries are taken on early digital equipment which means original file size is smaller, which limits the maximum size I can print without losing quality.   Just click on the gallery image for an enlarged view and size availability.  For commissioned images I can produce to a maximum of 60 x 40 inches, (1500 x 1000mm).

Will my canvas look the same as the image on your website?

No, it will look much better!  Your screen quality combined with the low resolution display in the galleries give a blurred and flat feel to the images.  They look much sharper, brighter and colourful once printed.  There is also a huge amount of detail that isn't visible on screen.  Occasionally the image has to be cropped, or the proportions altered, to fit onto a specific size frame.

How are your canvases supplied?

They are normally stretched onto premium quality wooden stretcher bars, and “gallery wrapped”, which means the image folds round the edges to the rear.  This gives a pleasing, almost 3D effect.

I can supply the canvas unstretched and rolled if that’s what you’d prefer.  You can then choose to get it stretched to your own requirements locally.  Just let me know at time of ordering.

How deep are your frames?

I use premium quality stretcher bars that are 44mm deep.  With the thickness of canvas added overall depth is about 50mm.  For additional cost I can supply images on deeper "gallery" style bars that are 65mm deep and very chunky.  This suits larger images, see pictures to left of a 30 x 40 inch canvas being stretched onto gallery bars.  Let me know  if you'd prefer you canvas on these bars and I'll calculate the additional cost.

How much is delivery?

All canvases are usually sent in the post.  For deliveries within the UK Postage and Packing is included in the price.  Delivery is by Royal Mail Special Delivery.  For deliveries to Europe, USA etc please contact me BEFORE ordering so I can calculate shipping cost to avoid unpleasant surprises!.

How long will it take to get to me?

I endeavour to get all canvases to my customers as quickly as possible, but they are generally produced to order.   Please allow 14 -17 days.  I try to contact each customer with a delivery date when I receive the order.

Do you supply overseas?

Yes, but we would need to make special arrangements.  I would ask you to email me BEFORE ordering so we can discuss shipping costs.

How do I pay?

This site is set up to accept Paypal, or contact me to discuss alternative payment methods.

How do I care for my canvas?

Once hung your canvas won’t need any particular care, except a gentle dust every now and again.  Do not use spray polish, or any detergent cleaners.  If the surface becomes soiled, use only a damp cloth, and avoid rubbing heavily on one spot.

The colours are UV resistant, and being laminated also helps, but you should avoid hanging your canvas on a wall that gets continuous direct sunlight.  Direct sunlight will eventually have gradual adverse effect on the image.   You should also try to avoid rooms that are damp, or have extreme temperatures, both high and low, as this may cause the frame to warp.  I also suggest you avoid hanging your canvas directly above a radiator.

Can I supply you with one of my pictures to be printed onto canvas?

Currently I only produce canvases from my own collection of images, but feel free to contact me if you have a project I can help with.

If you have unanswered questions please contact me.