It seems I learn everything the hard way. As long as I can remember I've heard how wonderful "Rembrandt Lighting" is (where there is only a triangle of light on the cheek opposite the light source), this must have come from some of my classes. Well, after aiming for that for the past year and being very frustrated with all that SHADOW, because with only a little triangle of light on one cheek the rest of that side of the face is in shadow, I have finally begun to wonder what is so great about Rembrandt lighting anyway? I spent some time looking through books today and see that many of the old masters have positioned their models with the a little shadow on the side of the nose and the side of the head.
Why had I not realized this before? Is it possible to paint a face half in shadow and have it still look good?
I'm sure it is possible but is it a good idea for painting children's portraits that will appeal to a broad market. Perhaps I should reserve this kind of lighting for a more dramatic effect. So, as I said, sometimes I feel I learn the hard way, now I'm off to explore light with just barely a shadow on the side of the nose.
BTW I just posted my latest attempt in WIP and the photo posted is what led me to post this!
I'll be very interested to see how other's feel about lighting their models with Rembrandt lighting.
Joan