Edginess
 

Brandon, whose portrait I did last year (he bought the piece from me in January) has sent me these two pics. He is very creative and completely understands what I was looking for in my next drawing of him.

What do you think? I got really psyched when I opened them. I may have to put it on a back burner as my life is really busy right now, but, wow, I love these...

I do see that there is distortion, especially in the closest arm, but do you think I can compensate for it?

I need to add, I did not take these photos. Brandon is in the Coast Guard and is on his ship on patrol for months. He titled these, "Patrol Sucks..." :bewildere

Hi Patty, I can imagine why you were so psyched, these are edgy and moody (right up my alley). But..... distortion is not your friend here. The second one in particular has way too much camera distortion to work in a drawing. The first has potential if you can find a model to sit in for the body. Then add the tattoos to the "new and improved, non distorted" body. Sounds like a lot of work. Or, let him know how much you like the photos and have him send new pics. Tell him that the photographer must back up and zoom in. You know the drill! The subject matter is just too interesting to work from a distorted photo. ;)

Jean

I'm hardly commenting these days because too busy. BUT I have to say that the distortion is a big issue. I had a lovely lady approach me only days ago and give me her website address. Every single painting on it, I looked at and said "photo-distortion". It's much worse in a painting because there isn't that visual shorthand we have become accustomed to in photography. Sorry. Janet

Jean and Janet,

I agree with both of you and have emailed Brandon with some tips. The more I look at them the more obvious it is.

Jean, I knew you would like the idea! This is the greatest kid, and I think his features are extraordinarily expressive, real moody deep eyes and full lips - great to draw and paint!!!

More later, when I get better photos.

Thanks for the second and third pair of eyes!

Pat, these seem to be self photos. The first would be quite interesting to work from on a grand scale, distortion excluded. In the second photo if but his head was up and it was a eye level shot, I feel it would be a dramatic portrait.

You do need close ups for details but not to draw from. Close ups are good to understand what makes the form look as it does.

mischa