Portrait Gem #03
NOVEMBER CHALLENGE 🖤
Bonjour my little demon, ready to collect gem #03?
Whether you just joined or have been here from the beginning, thank you so much for reading.
TODAY’S GEM
A little demon recently told me that they can’t draw a face on their own. And you know what? That’s completely normal—it’s actually the right way to go. There’s a myth that true artists create portraits entirely from imagination, but in reality, most rely on references—even the old masters!
Without references, portraits can look flat and lack that organic, lifelike quality. Even the most creative and unique portraits usually begin with multiple references to ensure accuracy. By understanding the real world, you gain the freedom to twist and stylize it in your own way.
That's why I always tell my portrait students to rely on references. And, most importantly, I teach them how to search, select, and use references correctly—because it's an art in itself! Here are some key insights I share with them:
- Use Free Domain Images or Your Own Photos: Make sure you have the right to use the image, and it aligns with what you want to capture—whether it’s lighting, expression, or specific details. In Reality to Fantasy, I guide students through choosing the right reference for their desired effect.
- Choose Well-Lit and High-Contrast Portraits: Good lighting highlights the shapes and planes of the face, making it easier to translate into your drawing. This is a key technique we cover in the course.
- Combine Multiple References: Don’t rely on just one image. Mix different sources for anatomy, lighting, and mood to create a unique result. In Reality to Fantasy, we dive deep into how to blend references seamlessly.
- Study, Don’t Copy: Focus on understanding the underlying structure in your reference. Use it as a guide, but adapt and change elements as you go. This is about training your eye—a skill I emphasize heavily in the lessons.
- Keep the Reference Visible While Drawing: Refer back to it often to stay accurate, but don’t hesitate to trust your instincts and make changes. This balance is something we practice in the course to build confidence.
Using references isn’t about limiting creativity—it’s a tool for growth and mastery as an artist.
Voilà, that’s all for me.
What portrait topic would you like me to cover next?
Bisous,
Léa
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