Digital painting process

[JParrilla]

Hey guys.. Im lookin for some tips on digital painting process. Im currently working on a photo that I really want to copy and color. I started with a sketch on one layer, then created a new layer to block in the values in black and white. Now my question is.. would you continue to create new layers everytime your running over the painting again for another layer of detail? or just keep painting on the same layer. My plan is to lay in medium detail in simple black and white value and then go in and color the whole thing over that. Im just very inexperienced in digital and I dont have a process. Thanks guys

[frog from itchy]

There's no right or wrong way - it's up to you.

Working on just one layer can help to unify a painting and make it less of a cardboard cut out since you're more likely to have edges that blend in to the background, but you can have highlights one one layer and shadows on another or whatever floats your boat. There's no rules.

[Ian Barker]

Probably best to make a few layers if you're just beginning. Try not to abuse them as you progress from piece to piece, but at this point don't worry about being too liberal with them.

[JParrilla]

No right or wrong for the process, putting color overlays on greyscale is difficult and can make the colors look dead so I would suggest that you start with color in an earlier stage.

that said, when do you plan doing a sketchbook here?
You always ask about techniques and approaches for drawing and painting but it would be much more helpful if you would show some art, get feedback, get critique, socialize with people on this site and just find out things on your own :).

Thanks, I think Im gonna try to keep my digitals to as few layers as possible so that I can be replicating traditional more closely. About the sketchbook :) I had one up here about a year ago, but various issues in my life took me away from art for a short while.. and I realized recently that this is really something I have a desire to pursue, so now im going at it 100%. Im currently away at college and my scanner is at home, Im returning in about 2 weeks so you can expect a sketchbook exactly then. I promise

[Kiera]

Im returning in about 2 weeks so you can expect a sketchbook exactly then. I promise
nice to hear, note me when you make your sketchbook :D

[JParrilla]

nice to hear, note me when you make your sketchbook :D

absolutely

[Nickillus]

Having come from a real watercolour background, where laying many glazes was the norm for me, I tend to use a lot of layers. That's my story and I'm sticking with it.
It's like these guys have said - no right or wrong - just what works for you. The flexibility of the pc and its software means it is very forgiving whichever way you choose to go. I defintely agree with the comment about introducing colour earlier rather than later though. Walloping an over all colour scheme (even one or two colourswill do to act as an underpainting) in to neutralise the bland canvas will give you a much better idea where it's headed.

Some positives to using lots of layers
- you can separate elements, which can save on masks etc.
you can build up subtle nuances of colour.
You can experiment with layers that use different blending mode in combination.

Some negatives - It's easy to get confused and paint on the wrong layer
(so get into the habit of naming your layers)
More navigation and bigger file, slow things down
Can lead to indecisiveness . . .
er, I think, or do I?

If you do end up adding layers willy nilly like I do, take every opportunity to merge some down now and again. Make some decisions (but back up first, beacuse it's always a good idea anyhow)

There are so many tutorials out there full of invaluable information that you should never want for more detailed advice once you pick a path that feels right for you. A lot of your choices may be influenced by the software you use and its strengths.

Enjoy the journey. That's pretty crucial.
Best,
Nick

[JParrilla]

thanks Nick..good points. I think Im just gonna do whatever works best for me.