DigitalCustom to Offer Photo Art Treatments, Repair and Restoration

December 16, 2002 - DigitalCustom Group, Inc. today announced that it has reached agreement with the 450-member Independent Photo Imagers (IPI) retailers group to offer their members immediate fulfillment for a new series of custom edited photo-to-art treatments.

DigitalCustom's new service allows IPI retailers to order virtually any photo to be custom edited to appear as though it were an original watercolor, oil or pastel illustration. Common subjects include formal portraits, casual photos of children, couples, families and animals, homes and architecture and vacation scenes. For retailers whose print fulfillment is limited, DigitalCustom will provide prints on premium art media. Standard turnaround on digital files is 8 business days, with expedited 3-day service available.

Brent Bowyer, IPI's President, said, "DigitalCustom's new series of custom edited photo-to-art services really caught our attention and in-store tests convinced us this service should be offered immediately to IPI stores. We have all seen, and some of us sell, simple "plug-in" conversions of photos to simulated artwork. DigitalCustom's service is different, as it is done by creative artists with hands-on attention to detail. An example is that DigitalCustom can make adjustments to image composition to eliminate elements that detract from work's impact. The brushwork of the paintings looks every bit real, and customers will think the pastel will rub off on their fingers. This service wonderfully combines technology and creative talent."

DigitalCustom's President, Jeff Makoff, said "We look forward to extending our new series of custom edited photo-to-art service to IPI stores. Stores will appreciate the quality control, ease-of-use and support for which DigitalCustom is known. Our fine art treatments show customers how much can be done with professional digital editing. These services will help stores carry the message that 'The Photo Is Only The Starting Place'" into new areas. These services will lead directly to more sales of enlargements, frames, cards and other types of displays."

More information about DigitalCustom Group is available on its Web site at www.digitalcustom.com.