I wanted to show you an example of how I'm approaching studies these days. After starting my mentorship and locking into improving at things I've always avoided, I noticed that studying subjects I'm already comfortable with has gotten like 50x better π€ͺ
Here's a quick breakdown of my process:
First, I gather reference images of the subject (in this case, bewbs!). I selected just a few to start because I wanted this to be a 30-minute study.
I trace the photos while focusing on SHAPES. I used to concentrate on lines, but thinking in shapes makes it easier to convey that 3D feeling. I constantly remind myself to be aware of the construction while tracing, no mindless drawing! The goal is to understand why things look the way they do.
After breaking down the photo with simple shapes, I put it aside and draw looking at the original reference. The tracing step beforehand works wonders for getting proportions right. And I don't hesitate to use the liquify tool for adjustments, as long as I understand why I'm making them.
Finally, time to draw from imagination! I keep a library of reference photos on my second monitor but don't copy any specific one. This gives me the visual vocabulary to experiment with different breast shapes. I challenge myself (like the low angle or the bouncing motion) and then analyze the results: "Did I do well? Do I need to study proportions more? What's the next thing to focus on?"
Hope this wasn't too confusing! I tried to explain it as clearly as possible. I know seeing how others study can really help in developing your own approach, so I hope this helps someone. π
P.S. Tiers 2 and 3 - a timelapse is available for this one! Watching it might make the explanation clearer. π