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Old 03-30-2008, 11:24 AM   #5
Alexandra Tyng Alexandra Tyng is offline
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Joined: May 2005
Location: Narberth, PA
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Sandra,

Is it possible to take some more photos? I hate to be discouraging, but I am wondering why you are attempting to paint a portrait from these references. It is difficult enough to put together more than one reference, but if you do, it is essential to have the head and the body in the same light. I might attempt to draw a composite head from these two references, but I wouldn't try to paint this portrait! Many people are under the false impression that artists can make magic happen, Since she is your friend it should be easier to explain to her that you need better photos.

There is a lack of light, partially caused by the problems above, and the related problem of trying to invent too much. A definite light source has a color, which in turn will create colors in the halftones and shadows. You won't have to try and make up what you are not seeing, if you can have the pleasure of painting from what you see!

Then there is the modeling problem caused by using the photo you have for the face. How are you going to determine how his left cheek looks when it is not squished? You could use the other reference photo, but then you will have the problem of modeling the cheek in a different light. Having tilted the reference you are using, you've complicated your task and created an almost impossible situation for yourself. The chin needs to be longer and the left side of the face is too wide, making the set of the eyes slightly too far apart. But even then, will it really look like the boy? His mother might still be dissatisfied.

I believe the heart of the matter is making sure your references are totally satisfactory before accepting any commission or starting any painting. You have so much talent, you should not waste it by making this much trouble for yourself.
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