Thank you for your report!
We have received your report and it is currently under investigation by a forum moderator.
Painting From Photos
Welcome to the forum.
Here you can discuss all things art with like-minded artists, join regular painting challenges, ask questions, buy and sell art materials and much more.
Make sure you sign in or register to join the discussions.
Hang on Studio Wall
This is a Studio member-only feature!
Join our Studio membership and save your favourite Painters Online content, from gallery artwork to step-by-step guides, to your own online mood boards. Create your go-to place for inspiration and learning. Plus, members can also enjoy a range of exciting features including monthly art videos and a digital magazine library.
If you are already a Studio member, simply login to your account.
Not a Studio member? Why not try our free 30-day trial - no commitment, no credit card required
Message
Posted
I too like the cuppa and a biscuit when painting, so I'm with you on that comment, Ray.
I use my own photos as my time is limited due to work and many people are the same. In my humble opinion as long as you enjoy the process
of painting whether indoors or out, carry on and enjoy it. In so many videos we see professional artists using photo reference.
Since the article on making a reed pen, I have become more bold, my sketch book is filling nicely with outdoor tit-bits that catch my eye, and now I feel confident to just go in with a fine liner and then a minimal watercolour wash, and move on, by that I mean back to work...:(
Posted
My opinion is to go with the heart and your ability, like the OP said, we can't all climb mountains and some of us might even be house bound :(
So use the photo's wisely and then paint from the heart. In other words realise when it is time to put away that photo and finish it to satisfy your heart.
Posted
Surely a lot depends on what you intend to do with the finished product? If it's nothing more that sticking it up here for fun and comment, then what rules are needed? If it's with an end product to sell, as for in a living, then any form of skullduggery will soon be evident. I see absolutely no point in attempting to fool anybody and as long as you're truthful then what harm digital or manual, copied or invented? Serious artists won't be fooled one way or the other, but unless what you create is totally your own, then what's the point of it all? Surely the pleasure and satisfaction is in the personal creation of art ; if not, we may as well buy Paint by Numbers books for all we achieve and we're fooling nobody in the end but ourselves.
