Utilizing Reference Images Create Believable Creatures

Utilizing Reference Images: Create Believable Creatures
Software: Photoshop
Author: RJ Palmer-Illustrator and Concept Artist


It is industry standard to use reference material when working on illustration and concept art fields.
It is often cited that the difference between an amateur and a professional is knowing when reference
is necessary. Skills taught in this class will greatly benefit most basic to intermediate level artists.

What You'll Learn

Students will learn to apply anatomy and detailing from the real world into their concept designs.
This class will emphasize the use of reference to make your designs strong and believable.

Lessons will touch on breaking down and understanding the anatomy of your reference material
and how you can apply that to your own work as well as understanding how to utilize reference
material without becoming married to the reference.

Concept Sketching. In this stage we start tooling around with different shapes and designs,
looking for an idea that really clicks. It is important during this stage
to stay loose and just keep an open mind.

Research/Reference. With a start of a cool idea, we now need to find reference to really make
our design believable. It is important during this stage to research subjects
in the same vein as your design, this will help you better understand what reference
to look for.

Refine. Now with proper reference and better understanding of your idea, it is time to refine.
This step is very important, its where you eliminate all your missteps and bring your
concept to the next level.

Lighting. In this lesson we focus on how the right lighting can effect your design.
Different lighting schemes will be showcased, discussing the difference in mood
and atmosphere.

Final Touches. With all of hardest part done, it is time to finish off your design. In this lesson
I will touch on the importance of color temperature and how it impacts your design.
This stage can become the most fun as you the last of the pieces fall into place and
your hard work pays off.