The following tips will help you achieve a more realistic drawing. Just remember the more you put into your drawing, thought, time, effort, details...the more you will get out of your finished artwork. This is my basic philosophy in life and drawing.
"You get what you give!"
1. Don't be afraid of the dark!
This can't be said enough so I'll say it again, "Don't be afraid of the Dark!"
The darkest darks are so important to achieving a lifelike or realistic portrait,
landscape or still life.
2. Let there be light...
Equally as important as pushing the darks is utilizing the light! The
contrast of light vs. dark will help you create the 3D effect. Your image will
pop right off the paper!
3. Layering with a light touch
Some artists work light to dark; others work dark to light. You have to find
what works best for you. Personally, I prefer to layer up. Using light pressure I
gradually work my way from light to dark creating a wide range of values. This
will keep the "shine" to a minimum as well as helping to mold and define form
and features.
4. To blend or not to blend...that is the question.
Many artists use tortillions, blending stomps as well as ordinary tissue to
to lightly blend graphite. This technique creates a smooth transition from light
to dark. (If using facial tissue make sure there are no additives, lotions, etc. as
they will leave oils on your paper.)
Other artists do not blend with tools at all prefering light pressure and
subtle layering to achieve a smooth transition. This takes a lot of time and
patience. I recommend trying both ways. Find what works best for you.
5. Use the right paper for the right job!!!
There are many grades of paper to choose from these days. Smooth bristol,
water color paper, vellum and many more. Trial and error will help you learn
what works best for you. Many companies offer samples of their paper lines just
for this reason. Ask your local art supply store for samples and they will gladly
get them for you.
To be continued...
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