How to Paint Realistic Black & White Portraits

The face is the number one focal point I want to viewer to focus on. The hair is also the closest element to the halo above her head. I will be showing you can ease into the foundation of the portrait without going to dark and heavy.

One of the most important parts of painting photorealism is edges. In this lesson, I will be showing you how to bring the background up to the main subject with ease and finesse.

It is really easy to overwork elements like hands and backgrounds. In this lesson, I continue to work the background around the hands focusing on soft edges. Edges are key to keeping your realism intact. Using your new freehand skills

Like lesson 3, I now continue to render the arms and hands. The key for you will be to not over develop the hands. The face and hair are the focal points.

In this lesson, I will be helping you freehand texture on the dress and clothing. The key is for you to not go too dark and overdevelop the dress.

Most artists will do their highlighting with straight white that is too brash. In this lesson, I will helping you learn the value of scaling up your highlights

Painting distressed and textured backgrounds is a very advanced stage in your painting. In this lesson I am going to help you create textured backgrounds that can compliment your beautiful painted portraits.

I wanted to congratulate you on finishing your painting and portrait. By now, you should have a clear understanding of what it takes to produce realistic black and white portraits from start to finish. My hope, is that you have