Pros and cons of sketching from photographs || How to create successful sketches from this medium || Krishna Jeena Artist

 Pros and Cons of sketching from Photographs

Sketching from photographs can be a useful tool for artists, particularly for those who are just starting out or who want to improve their skills. It can be a great way to learn about composition, value, and other important artistic concepts. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to sketching from photographs, and it's important to be aware of these before you begin.

Pros of sketching from photographs:

1. Reference material: One of the biggest advantages of sketching from photographs is that it provides a clear and detailed reference for your work. This can be particularly helpful if you're trying to capture a specific pose or expression, or if you want to make sure that the proportions of your sketch are accurate.

2. Convenience: Sketching from photographs can be more convenient than trying to draw from life, especially if you don't have access to a live model or if you're trying to capture a fleeting moment or expression.

3. Time-saving: Sketching from photographs can also be a time-saving option, as you don't have to worry about setting up a still life or finding a model to pose for you.

Cons of sketching from photographs:

1. Lack of depth: One potential drawback of sketching from photographs is that they can lack depth and dimensionality. This can be particularly noticeable if you're trying to capture a three-dimensional object or scene.

2. Limited perspective: Another issue is that photographs are usually taken from a single perspective, which can limit the way you view the subject. This can make it more difficult to capture the full range of values and details in your sketch.

3. Lack of authenticity: Some artists may feel that sketching from photographs lacks authenticity, as it's not the same as drawing from life.

Tips for creating successful sketches from photographs:

1. Use reference photos as a starting point, but don't be afraid to deviate from them: While reference photos can be a useful tool, it's important to remember that they are just that – a reference. Don't be afraid to add your own spin to the sketch or to deviate from the reference photo in order to create a more dynamic and interesting piece.

2. Experiment with different angles and perspectives: Try sketching the same subject from different angles or perspectives in order to get a better understanding of its form and structure. This can help you to create more dynamic and realistic sketches.

3. Practice regularly: The more you practice sketching from photographs, the better you'll become at it. Set aside time each day to work on your sketches and try to work with a variety of subjects and compositions.

4. Use grid drawing: If you're having trouble with proportion and placement, consider using a grid drawing technique to break the photograph down into smaller, more manageable sections. This can help you to better understand the relationships between different elements in the photograph and make it easier to capture them in your sketch.

In conclusion, sketching from photographs can be a useful tool for artists, but it's important to be aware of the potential drawbacks and to use reference photos as a starting point rather than a strict guide. With practice and experimentation, you can create successful sketches from this medium.