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How do you choose source material for your next painting? Whether you work from life or from photographs, the first step in a successful painting is determining the subject matter, and in turn, planning your composition.

Source Material.
Most of the time I work from my own photographs. However, when I saw the above picture posted on social media of my grandnephew, I just had to get permission to paint it! 

Intent.
When choosing a photo to use as reference for a painting, ask yourself a few questions to clarify your intention: 

• What attracts you to this image? 
• What message, mood or emotion do you want to convey?  
• Is the photograph suitable to be painted in its present form, or are there extraneous elements that can (and should) be eliminated?
• Is there good lighting on the subject?
• Are you excited to paint it? 

Instant Attraction.
That sweet face and gorgeous blue eyes attracted me immediately! I wanted to capture the essence of that moment (his 9 month birthday) in a painting. 
 
Purpose.
I wondered what baby was thinking as mom positioned him for this photograph. I imagined that the tiny tears and little finger in his mouth might mean "I just need a moment". I wanted to express the simple sweetness and innocence of a child.

"Nothing is more important than intent.

Why do you choose to paint? What is the purpose of your painting?

What is it you want the painting to say, and what do you want your viewers to feel?"

 ~Thomas Schaller

The Photograph.
As I was interested in the expression on the child's face, I knew I would have to crop. It's so great to be able to do this on a computer so I can change my mind as many times as I want to and not ruin the photo! I started by straightening the picture using the top of the chair as a reference. Once straight, I cropped everything below the child's waistline as well as the space above his head. I also eliminated the blocks next to him. Still not satisfied, I played around with cropping in tighter until I was happy with the composition (above). I liked the extra space next to him which emphasized his smallness; I cropped off the top of his head to make it more interesting; and I chose to leave the strawberry on his forehead because it's part of who he is.
 
Lighting.
The natural side lighting defined the child's features nicely.
 
Excitement.
"Are you excited to paint it?" I was certainly enthusiastic about painting my sister's first grandchild! If your answer to this  question is not a resounding "yes", choose another photo.

Painting from Photographs Part 2: Style.
Next month I will discuss how you can develop your own artistic style. Stay tuned!
 
Paint. Love. Repeat.