The iPad Pro and Apple Pencil has inspired me lately to do a lot more sketching. I've always kept a sketchbook, because it's the best tool for unleashing creativity. But the iPad Pro takes it to a stratospheric level. It's like I had a genie grant my wish for the best sketchbook in the world. My favorite software is Procreate. Above is a portrait of my sister Diane.
Here's some friends, colleagues and my nephew that I drew.
STEP 1: Take a photo. Tip: A profile is easier to draw because you don't have to match two sides of the face. Make three new layers. Label them from the top down: Line, Shadow, Color.
STEP 2: Lower the opacity on the PHOTO layer to about 40%. It makes it easier to see the lines you are drawing.
Here's the line drawing finished on top of the photo.
Here's the finished line with the PHOTO layer hidden.
STEP 3: Add the shadows on the SHADOW layer with soft airbrush or pastels.
STEP 4: Add some color on the COLOR layer to complete the portrait.
Here's the steps all at once.
There you have it! A simple and fun way to connect with your friends, colleagues and family.