Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about Shadowed Memories
Having your deceased loved one drawn is not something you decide on lightly. This is a special yet emotional journey. I can imagine you have questions. How does this work? Where do I start? What is possible? On this page, I answer some of the most frequently asked questions. If your question isn’t listed, feel free to contact Dasja.
How does the process start? First, you contact Dasja. During a relaxed phone conversation, we will get to know each other. I will learn more about your wishes and ideas, and you will get a better understanding of me and my process. During this call, I will also explain the next steps, leading to a beautiful and complete family photo where the empty space is filled with a custom Shadow.
I want a Shadow drawn but don’t have a suitable photo yet. Feel free to send me the names of photographers you have in mind, and I can help you choose one whose style and approach best align with Shadowed Memories. Are you a photographer with a light and open style? Click here to collaborate!
I already have a photo. Can you add a Shadow to it? Most likely, yes. Please email the photo to dasja@shadowedmemories.com for evaluation. If approved, I will contact the photographer for permission to draw on the image. Additionally, please follow up separately to ensure your email was received.
We have a family photographer who also captured the farewell and funeral. Can they take the photos? Yes, as long as the photographer has a light and open style to ensure the Shadow blends well into the image. Send me their name, and I will review the options with you.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to complete my Shadow? Depending on how busy it is and how quickly we finalize your preferences, the process takes between 2 to 6 months.
Can I decide how my Shadow will look? Absolutely! Every Shadow is drawn from scratch, tailored to your wishes. Once the Shadow is complete, you’ll have the opportunity to make some adjustments, such as making it slightly smaller, broader, or refining specific details like a strand of hair.
I have no idea how my deceased loved one should look. That’s completely okay. During a detailed phone conversation, we will discuss this in depth until the first ideas emerge. You will also receive a questionnaire in advance, covering every aspect of your loved one.
Our child passed away before or during birth. Can I still have a Shadow drawn? Yes, absolutely. The most common approach is to have your child grow alongside your family. For example, if your son passed away six years ago before or at birth, I can draw a six-year-old boy alongside your family photo. However, you may also choose to have your loved one drawn at the age they were when they passed.
How long does it take to complete my Shadow? Depending on how busy it is and how quickly we finalize your preferences, the process takes between 2 to 6 months.
Can I decide how my Shadow will look? Absolutely! Every Shadow is drawn from scratch, tailored to your wishes. Once the Shadow is complete, you’ll have the opportunity to make some adjustments, such as making it slightly smaller, broader, or refining specific details like a strand of hair.
I have no idea how my deceased loved one should look. That’s completely okay. During a detailed phone conversation, we will discuss this in depth until the first ideas emerge. You will also receive a questionnaire in advance, covering every aspect of your loved one.
Our child passed away before or during birth. Can I still have a Shadow drawn? Yes, absolutely. The most common approach is to have your child grow alongside your family. For example, if your son passed away six years ago before or at birth, I can draw a six-year-old boy alongside your family photo. However, you may also choose to have your loved one drawn at the age they were when they passed.
Frequently asked questions about Shadowed Memories
Is it possible to have an adult Shadow drawn? Yes, since I draw everything by hand, any age is possible.
I want an adult Shadow, but all the photos I have are quite old. That’s not a problem at all. We will take key features from the older photos. Such as hair, ear shape, and body structure and incorporate them into the drawing. Together, we will discuss additional details and your wishes.
How does it work if I want a Shadow of twins or multiple deceased loved ones drawn in one photo? This page explains the process and cost when you are missing more than one loved one. Twins will resemble each other but also have their own unique traits. The differences lie in small details, such as slightly different hairstyles or walking styles. Their clothing and personalities may be very similar or completely different, one might be bold while the other is gentle. They are alike, yet distinct, not identical copies.
Our son or daughter had a favorite stuffed animal. Can it be included in the drawing? Yes! Personal details like this make the drawing even more special.
Can my Shadow be made slightly darker? Absolutely! I assess each photo to determine the most suitable shade, whether a medium gray, a slightly darker gray, or even a subtle brownish tone.
Can I give a Shadow photo as a gift? Surprising someone with a drawn Shadow, no matter how well-intended, is not something I recommend. Instead, I suggest first discussing it with the person and showing them my work. If they respond positively, you can then offer it as a gift.
Will our Shadow photo be shared online? Never without permission. This only happens with your consent, either with or without your personal story, whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Can you provide a price estimate? Yes. I work with fixed prices, so costs are clear in advance.
Didn’t find the answer to your question?
Feel free to contact Dasja.