Ok friends, I hope you came here ready to learn today because this video is chock full of tons of info that you can apply to basically any painting you’re working on that will help you depict a wide range of subjects more realistically. Yay!
I am thrilled to share with you a list of tips that are general enough to work across a large variety of subjects, but yet specific enough that if you take a little time to hone these skills you will absolutely become a better realist painter:)
I am an oil painter but these tips work with acrylic as well. Enjoy the vid and scroll down for your handy dandy realism checklist
It’s as easy as….
Start with a clear reference image
Create a strong drawing
Take time to mix proper colors and plenty of them
Go slowly - use small direct strokes with the correct sized brush
Pay attention to the surface of the material/subject you are depicting
Utilize multiple layers as needed
Continue correcting until desired look is achieved - be patient!
Feel free to give yourself/the painting/a part of the painting a break if things go awry and get frustrating; A day/week/month break can do wonders for a technical snafu
Here are some great reference vids for more detailed information:
How to Improve Your Drawing for Painting:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1N2fZphjt1I&t=16s
How to Make a Painting Surface + Transfer Your Drawing to Canvas:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XozulwC3fM&t=5s
How Much Oil Paint to Use:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1noq6pwHsAk&t=16s
Mixing a Light Skin Tone:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfVn2X2NpN8
Mixing a Melanin Rich Skin Tone:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVQIncWs6eY&t=217s
How to Paint Sheer Lace Fabric:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CYXlKWXXEE
How to Paint Gold Jewelry that Really Shines:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44zBEQN5MiU&t=30s
Good luck and happy painting! Remember I’m always here for some one-on-one mentoring as well.
7.19.2019