Painting From Photographs

This is the painting I did for the St. Louis Watercolor Society last night.  There was a big crowd, and I enjoyed teaching them some things I've learned about painting trees.

First, I encouraged them to really look at trees.  So many times people revert to painting trees from memories of their childhood efforts.

Second, I suggested that they do a value sketch of the tree or the scene and then paint from the value sketch.  That way you'll avoid getting caught up in the trap of painting local color.  You get to decide what colors to make the trees.  It will also tell you if your darks are linked in an interesting shape.

Here is the painting.  Thanks to the SLWS for inviting me!