GETTING FAMILIAR WITH THE SCENE
Choose a photograph for this exercise that has a variety of interesting and overlapping shapes, but not too many little details. The one below is a good example, but I encourage you to use your own when you repeat the exercise. Study the photograph for a good ten minutes or so, aiming to identify key areas.
• Think about the relative sizes and proportions of the shapes, the angles of lines and the distances between shapes.
• Imagine extending the boundary lines of the shapes outwards. Ask yourself where they would cut across the perimeter edge of the photograph.
• Picture the photograph divided into quarters and see which parts of the subject fit in each of the quarters.
• Half-close your eyes to study the value relationships of the shapes, noticing the overall value scheme and where the darks and lights fall.
• When you think you’re ready, turn the photograph away and try the following half-hour painting exercise.