I work from photos. On occasion I take the photo(s) myself, but more often the client provides the photo they wish to be rendered in watercolor. 

Good reference photos are really important in producing a good watercolor portrait. Below are some guidelines for photo selection. 

Prior to selecting your photo, it might be helpful to view some of my other work to determine if a particular style, palette, and/or composition speaks to you.

• Lighting - 

  • A model positioned with good lighting is key. Natural light is best. 

  • Directional light assists in creating valuable contrast across the facial features (i.e., seated by a window with the light illuminating the face, perhaps one side of the face in relatively more light/shadow than the other). 

• Props - 

  • Details add character to a portrait. 

  • An interesting pattern, a lace collar, a favorite hat, glasses, a treasured stuffed animal…any details that might add personality.

• Angle & Expression - 

  • I lean toward candid shots (images in profile or where the subject is looking off camera)

  • Head/shoulder shots are generally preferred.

  • Relaxed, candid faces (closed lips) generally translate best to watercolor.