Working From Reference Materials

Images from books, magazines, greeting cards or the Internet that allow you to observe a particular subject are called reference materials. It is good to practice observing actual subjects such as the birds in your backyard. Firsthand observation will help you to capture the essence and nature of your subject. The problem with observing from life is that the subject, especially an animal, may not stay still for you. Moreover, the lighting and colors will constantly change. A still life, in which you set up your subject matter with a consistent light source, is another option. You can sit down and take your time observing your subject at your leisure—be sure to warn your family that the fruit bowl is being used for study, or your reference may be eaten by mistake!

Reference Materials

Observation of a subject can be enhanced with reference material. Start a reference file by categorizing photos and magazine pictures in an accordion folder.


Trace the Basic Shapes

Lay a piece of tracing paper over your reference and trace the basic shapes of the image.

Use Your Tracing as a Reference

Use the tracing as another reference to determine the placement of the shapes and their proportions as you begin the drawing.