This snappy little blog post will tell you everything you need to know about how I plan out my artwork. I have never been the sort of person who can draw from memory, so drawing from reference is crucial for me. So far I have never had an idea for an image I haven’t been able to do because I lack the ability to draw without reference, with a bit of imagination I have found my technique very useful indeed.
My Tools
- A helper - not crucial, but certainly helps. Could be replaced with tripod and timer.
- Camera - very crucial, some people use their computers inbuilt camera, anything that enables you to capture the moment is fine.
- Props - very helpful when working out sizes and perspective.
- Photoshop - having the ability to knit it altogether once the modelling has finished, especially if you have a tight turn around.
Below you can see a few examples of where I have used myself as well as a couple very talented little helpers. When google images comes up empty handed and you just can’t get the body shape or motion right this method will never let you down. In fact sometimes I have found it to be a very nice distraction from what can sometimes be a stressful process.
A couple of hundred photos were taken to make sure the angle was just right.
The Final Piece.
Above you can see where I have used the reference of the bodies to make sure I get the look of weight on the runners shoulders, then changed the faces to fit the concept. I will always try to steer away from actually drawing my own face or having it in the illustration that way I am sure to like it when the drawing is completed.
As you can imagine this image in particular was a heap of fun to model.
A crop of the final image.
In the above example you can see a heavier reliance on props. please excuse the mess, I had just moved in at that point.
The last image is of my photos all together in photoshop, with the modelling all done I can crack on with the drawing.
The Photoshop Composition.
Love to know what you thought of my examples. If you have any hints or tips of your own do share. See other illustrators impressive efforts Here.