Good Photo vs Bad Photo
Original Photo
This is the original photo provided by a client. It's clean, clear, and details are visible.
Photo Zoomed In
This is the same photo zoomed in. Notice the details still can be seen with minimal digital distortion. This photo is acceptable and details can be clearly seen.
Digital Distortion
This is the same photo, but digital distortion was added to simulate what an unacceptable photo looks like. When you zoom in all detail is lost. This image cannot be reproduced without completely guessing.
The End Result
Hopefully the examples above help visually demonstrate the differences between a good clean photograph versus a distorted pixelated one. Because the client provided a good clean photo and there was no guesswork, the end result was a painted portrait the client loved.