Importance of quality reference material for your paintings

I used to make a lot of my paintings up as I went along but these days prefer to work from reference photographs but it's not always easy to get decent pictures when so often it's overcast and no shadows. I must start keeping an eye on the weather forecast and get out especially when the sun is shining
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[@nanwilliamson5936]

Great ideas! Thanks for sharing!

[@StevenCronin]

Thanks for watching!

[@stu7610]

I do a mix, photos, other paintings and my own head all mixed into one painting. Never looks like anything I used for reference. I like letting the painting paint itself. Got a patch of white? Turn it into a highlight of a building

[@StevenCronin]

Sounds like a good plan Stu!

[@jimmyroberson7843]

Good afternoon Steven I hope you are well. I've been following you for many years now and I rarely see you do a primitive sketch of the subject prior to painting. Can one do a sketch and still use the loose technique that you use? It could give variation to our work. Thanks as always ans take good care, Jimmy

[@StevenCronin]

I don't see why we can't paint loosely from a sketch. There's only one way to find out. Just sketch rough guidelines and then throw the paint at it! All the best Jimmy

[@oldcremehelian3708]

Perhaps you need a holiday or a short break Steven.😏One where you can take loads of photos and create new inspiring reference materials to work from. You certainly deserve one after all of the help and great advice you have given to others. Cotswolds, Derbyshire, Shropshire; even some seascapes at the seaside? I think you have a lot more inside you ready to come out☺

[@StevenCronin]

I've always got my camera whenever we go on holiday. The problem is you need to be on your own to get the good snaps and I'm always with family. You need to time to work out composition etc and it's hard when your wife tells you to hurry up! Think I need a break on my own!

[@oldcremehelian3708]

@@StevenCronin Perhaps you could get out early in the morning and take a few atmospheric shots before she gets up. It's a lot easier in the summer, admittedly. Personally I like the ephemeral work of the 'tonalist' painters of the 19th century. You may find it inspirational.

[@StevenCronin]

@@oldcremehelian3708 Yes, I think an early start could be the answer. I do like the tonalism paintings.