How to Stop Copying Your Reference (and Start Designing)
- James Otto Allen
- Jul 30
- 1 min read
Why copying isn't the goal
When learning to draw or paint, it's easy to become focused on copying every detail from a reference image - believe me I've done it many times. The problem is that this rarely leads to stronger design, which is arguably one of the key components in making a picture to tell a story.
Instead, try simplifying the reference into larger shapes and making deliberate decisions about composition, values and edges. Even small changes can make a painting feel much more personal and intentional.
This short lesson shows one simple approach I use when studying environments and preparing ideas for visual development.
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