Bobbi3

Getting ready

Posted on 10/05/09, 12:43 pm

Getting ready to start an oil painting. I've never done a self-portrait at age 57 and most artists have several of them. My son has dozens of them if you include charicatures, etc. Oh and one portrait with FOUR versions of him on the same page.
My last oil portrait was done when I was 17 yrs. old...yep 40 yrs. ago, so I'm a bit nervous. Have to find a picture to use. What should I be looking for in a picture to translate best into oils. Thx in advance for any tips.

• Reply #1 10/10/09  8:13am
  
  Bobbi3
  Finally got an answer to above question from artist son. Thought I'd share for anyone else with the same question:
  
  three quarters view is usually better
  look upwards (tilt your head down somewhat) to make your eyes look bigger
  DONT use camera flash, set up some nice lighting -- sunset will give you the best result
  symmetrical smiles tend to look fake
  
  Happy painting all!
  Bobbi
  

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