Explore poses in the initial sketch

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In this first sketch, my main focus is to explore different pose options to propose to the editor. Because it’s a cover, I try three or four variations to see how the composition works with the title and placeholder text. I also play with different thematics to drive the design in the second sketch stage. This was the third version, exploring a female dieselpunk, samurai-inspired character.

Second sketch stage

With the notes from the editor, I restart my sketch. I prefer to restart on a clean slate rather than fiddling with my messy first sketch. This time I take care to draw a nice gesture with proper proportions and anatomy. I change the arms to create a more dynamic pose and block in the diesel generator on her back. These elements will make a strong base for a complex design.