Sketch & Paint Tips

Format & Design

• Choose orientation intentionally: Decide whether a vertical or horizontal format best serves the subject.

• Design before paint: Pause to observe. Plan the composition before starting.

Light & Shadow

• Identify the light source: Know where the sun or dominant light is coming from.

• Map the shadows: Shadows establish form, depth, and structure.

Center of Interest (Focal Point)

• Define the focus: Be clear about the primary subject.

• Place it deliberately: Use the rule of thirds—position the focal point along an intersection or line for stronger composition.

Value & Contrast

• Anchor attention: Place the strongest contrast (lightest lights, darkest darks) at or near the focal point.

• Create depth: Control value shifts across the painting to support spatial depth.

Perspective

Linear Perspective

• Paths, roads, and edges start wider in the foreground and narrow as they recede.

Atmospheric Perspective

• Distant forms: cooler, duller, lower contrast.

• Foreground forms: warmer, sharper, higher contrast.

Reflections

• Water reflections are typically darker, warmer, and duller than the objects reflected.

Lynnie Maguire

Snugharborstudio.org
Call or Text: 978-290-2954