Using a Reference Photo in Your Art: Ideas, Tips, & More

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Taking and planning photos for use in your art
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If you want to draw something on paper, you don't have to have it completely visualized and worked out in your head. Instead, you can have a general concept of what you want or a few ideas about certain elements of what you visualize, then photograph a similar scene and use the image(s) to help you create a wonderful piece of art.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Planning Your Reference Photos

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    Some options are:
    • Duplicating the photograph using visual tracing.
    • Referencing the photo for shapes, shadows, visual texture, light direction, etc.
    • Picking out elements whereby you use only a part of the image for reference or tracing.
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    You might end up using Photoshop for manipulation or wanting to create your own reference photos.
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    It doesn't have to be pretty, but you will want to take into consideration the following:
    • Direction of light in relation to the subject
    • Direction, quality, and color of light
    • Your subject and the subject's motions (if any)
    • Your subject's pose
    • Composition of the shot (or shots)
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    As your project evolves, you will find yourself needing more shots (or different ones).
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    They don't have to be perfect . These are reference photos, after all.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Using the Photo Reference for Sketching

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    Use something like a drafting and drawing table. This will lessen the chance that your work will be distorted.
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    That means working directly beside it. This will also keep your eyes level when moving from your reference photo to your sketch.
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    While drawing , place your finger on the reference photo where you are sketching it on the paper.
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    Make sure that your finger stays on the photo where you are sketching on the paper.
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    Breaking your image down into a grid with horizontal and vertical lines can really simplify your work.
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      Tips

      • To learn how to draw portraits, get in front of a mirror. Alternatively, use yourself as a reference photo.
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      • Use what you got. To practice reflections and shadows , use something in the house with reflections and shadows, photograph it, and sketch it.
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      Warnings

      • It's very easy to simply duplicate your photograph in your sketch. Be aware of this issue and do what you can to avoid it.
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      References

      1. https://www.creativebloq.com/illustration/how-use-reference-photos-your-work-11618977
      2. https://www.artistsnetwork.com/art-mediums/drawing/how-to-view-your-photo-reference-for-accurate-drawings/
      3. https://claralieu.wordpress.com/2013/08/22/ask-the-art-professor-when-and-how-you-should-use-photo-references-to-draw-2/
      4. https://design.tutsplus.com/tutorials/how-to-draw-creatively-using-photo-references--cms-26310
      5. https://www.creativebloq.com/how-to/how-to-use-reference-correctly-8-essential-tips

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        Nov 23, 2022

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