One reference photo, multiple options

22 January 2026

Step-by-Step - Level ◆◆◆

Have you noticed in the lessons how I almost never paint exactly from a reference photo?

In fact, I believe when you take some time to analyse why you like a photo or scene, then paint the story you want to tell, then your painting is far more fun to create, has more interest and emotion invested in it, and people who see it can tell that too. You make far better art this way.

Recently after painting a step-by-step tutorial for you, I looked at my desk and I saw all my thinking behind the process. I thought this might interest you. A little behind-the-scenes could give you ideas you can take and make your own.

Then next week, we'll have the step-by-step lesson - the landscape version (bottom left) that you can see in the collage above.