How to select and work with a picture-perfect view when painting outdoors, with Tony Hogan

with Tony Hogan

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

■ How to select a view to paint

■ What needs to be left out of the scene in front of you

■ How to take advantage of your smart phones and apps

The process of selecting the best view to paint is no easy task and one I am frequently asked about by my students. There are often many exciting possibilities and not just the one you see in front of you. Once on location the next step is to look, look and look again, and to observe the many views available. One technique to use is the 360-degree option, which means you regard the view directly in front of you then take in the view to the left, next the one to the right and then the one behind (see below). When analysing aspects of the available views consideration must also be given to the support surface you are planning to use. Is it rectangular – perhaps 16x20in. (with a ratio of 4:5), 12x24 (with a ratio of 2:1) – or possibly square (with a ratio of 1:1)? Will it be a landscape (horizontal) or portrait (vertical) shape? Take your time and decide what the final painting will look like.