Learning objectives
Working from photographs rather than first hand is convenient for many reasons. It’s constant, unaffected by changing light or shadow patterns, and you won’t run out of time or get rained off. It’s also safe – there may be scope for a quick camera shot where we can’t set up an easel – and if your references come from the internet or magazines, it can cut down on foot slogging, looking for subjects. Be careful though. If you are using the photographs of others, make sure you have the necessary permissions or use images that are in the public domain. You can also use stock photos through subscription, or other online sites such as Creative Commons.
There are lots of considerations in working from photographs however they are derived. My purpose here is to remind you of a few of them.
Taking your own photos
If you are taking your own photographs, once a subject has caught your eye,