A Secret For The Best References

Going outdoors and trying to capture a good sketch with oils or acrylics is my first option, but when the conditions are not the best for painting, or maybe don't even allow carrying the minimal plein air gear, I take my camera and shoot/film moments and subjects that I find appealing.

In Winter and Spring, the weather conditions are harsh and so unpredictable, but particularly these seasons are the most beautiful and interesting to paint, because from such adversities, nature creates miracles.

For an artist that has nature in his heart and feels so much inspired by outdoor experiences, every opportunity to go out hiking or trekking is somehow like a white canvas, full of possibilities.

The most important thing is, in my opinion, to just go out and give it a try, because sometimes you start a trail with snow , wind, very low visibility and it's really hard and becomes a competition with yourself; but if you'll push your limits further, you'll certainly win.

The most beautiful sunset appears in front of your eyes and suddenly there's no freezing wind, not even a trace of storm; just an amazing performance of colors, dancing above the clouds.

Being able to take advantage from such spectacular show is, to me at least, the best reward, because I am able to return to the studio having this experience lived to the fullest and with all the impressions captured on camera.

And this is how my best painting compositions have started.

“Art is contemplation. It is the pleasure of the mind which searches into nature and which there divines the spirit of which nature herself is animated.” Auguste Rodin

The first signs of Spring are here and although it still looks a lot like Winter, the rocks are starting to be visible under the snow. Perfect timing to photograph this type of landscape, as a reference.

It's hard to imagine that among the best moments of trying to capture great nature photo references are those taken when seasons are changing, the melting snow starts flooding the land and the light shifts in an instant. But there are many advantages when it comes to the possibility of doing a great painting composition, using such photograph and having the comfort of your studio.

Another important aspect that comes to my mind is that you can use the force of the elements to create a "live" composition, one that you can benefit right away. Just put it on a big screen and start sketching on canvas; not many alterations or editing, Mother Nature already did it for you.

Here, for example, I took a photo with lots of potential, that I really want to turn into a painting. The dense fog came suddenly and, in a matter of minutes, was spreading everywhere.

The fact that you could only see few meters ahead is an excellent opportunity to put the focus directly on the subject, without any distractions and details that can easily overwhelm your composition.

The early Spring is pure art in itself. Sublime changes are visible only if you use all of your senses, emotions too.

Transitional seasons also give the advantage to reveal life in a unique manner; even the countryside shows a lot of magic. Activities, routines, farming start to become more active and if you go out and meet people, connect with this simple and beautiful way of living, in accordance with nature, then maybe your future paintings will speak to the viewer directly to his heart.

Here, I was taking a shot of the cow, trying not to interrupt the conversation between the two lovely ladies. Came back with great pictures for my future farm animal paintings.

My favorite subjects are usually wildlife, but every now and then, I like to paint landscapes and farm animals too. Especially if I was able to sketch it on plein air or at least take a good reference picture.

I think it is very important to be able to establish a connection with the environment, in order to create life-like art.

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