Adding a loved one who has passed to a family picture, gently

There are family gatherings where one seat stays empty. The grandma who is no longer here, the father who never got to meet his grandchildren, the sister who left far too soon. Many people wish for a picture where everyone is together, including those who are missing. Often, no such photo exists. In this guide we explain how separate photos can become one shared family picture, and what to keep in mind so it feels harmonious and dignified.

Why so many people wish for a picture like this

A family picture shows who belongs together. When a loved one has died, they still belong. A picture showing them next to their children, grandchildren or partner can express what words struggle to say: you are still part of us.

At the same time, it's a sensitive subject. Not everyone in the family feels the same way about it. That's why it's worth talking calmly beforehand, especially if the picture is meant as a gift for others.

How it works

With the family artworkfamily artwork from Arturell, up to 4 photos of people or pets, group photos included, are merged into one shared picture with AI. Each person is taken from the photo they appear on. The photo of the person who has passed can be older, for example a picture from ten or twenty years ago. The artwork is then printed on canvas in one consistent style.

Good to know: the picture isn't hand-painted, it's created with AI. The result is an artistic portrayal, not a document. Everyone appears in the same style, so the picture feels all of a piece. You can find out more about how it works on our family artworkfamily artwork page.

Finding the right photo of the person who has passed

Looking for the photo is often the hardest part. Take your time, perhaps together with others from the family. These tips can help:

• The face should be easy to see and as sharp as possible. The eyes are especially important.
• A photo where the person is alone or clearly in the foreground works better than a group shot from far away.
• Choose a picture that shows the person the way you want to remember them. It doesn't have to be the last photo.
• You can photograph old paper prints in bright daylight without reflections, or scan them.
• Use the original file instead of a copy from a messaging app.

What to look for in the other photos

Photos that resemble each other help the overall picture come together: a similar direction of gaze and a similar crop, for example head and shoulders each time. Everyone should be well lit. The clothing doesn't have to match. The preview shows you how the result looks. A pet can also become part of the picture, for example the dog who belonged to the family.

Choosing a calm style

You can choose from more than 20 styles. For a family picture with someone who has passed, many people choose a calm style:

• Watercolor feels soft and light, with gentle transitions.
• The oil style feels warm and classic.
• Pencil is understated and draws the eye to the faces.

There's no right or wrong here. If the person was cheerful, the picture can be cheerful too.

See it first, then decide

Before you order, the free preview shows you how the picture looks. It carries a watermark, you don't need an account, and up to 5 previews are free. If something doesn't feel right, try a different photo or a different style. Feel free to show the preview to someone in the family first. Start your family artwork here.Start your family artwork here.

The family artwork is available on canvas from €69.90. Shipping to Germany, Austria, France, Italy, Spain and Cyprus is free, and delivery takes 4 to 7 business days. With the canvas you get the digital file for free, so you can share the picture with family members too.The family artwork is available on canvas from $94.90. Shipping within the United States is free, and delivery takes 4 to 8 business days.

Giving it gently

If the picture is meant as a gift, for example for a widowed mother or for the grandparents, think about how it will be handed over. A quiet moment in a small circle often suits better than a big celebration. Some people are helped by a few words of preparation before they see the picture. You'll find more thoughts on the subject on our In MemoryIn Memory page. If you're unsure whether a picture is right at this moment, a gift cardgift card is a gentle alternative.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a very old photo of the person who has passed?

Yes, as long as the face is easy to see. A scanned or photographed paper print is often enough. Test it with the free preview.

How many people fit on the family artwork?

You upload two to four photos, and each one can show several people or pets. With up to 12 people, everyone makes it into the picture. With 13 to 20 people it usually works, so please check the free preview closely. More than 20 people per artwork is not possible.

Can you tell that the person was added afterwards?

Everyone is portrayed anew from their photos in the same style. Before you order, the free preview shows you how harmonious the result looks.