Woodstock Still Life Workshop - September 23-25, 2022

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I'm excited to have you join me for the Still Life workshop in Woodstock, VA!

​Below please find some tips for taking reference photos as well as a form to upload your images (up to three options). I'll review them to make sure you'll have success in class!

The class will be working on a still life painting but if you have taken one of Lisa's workshops before you may also do a person or animal portrait from your own reference.

​See you soon!

Tips for Great Still Life Photos

• Use a recent model iPhone, Android, or digital camera on a high quality setting so you can see all the fun details
• Have an odd number of subjects but don't overwhelm yourself with too many items
• Use window light or directional light
• Do not use the flash on your camera
• Take tons of photos so you have options when reviewing them
• Consider colors that work well together as opposed to including many unrelated colors
• Think about analogous color or complimentary color as an example. It's fun to look at the color wheel or color charts to get ideas.
• Do consider at least some lively colors
• Think about an area of interest, a special section to which you want to guide the viewer's eye
• Consider a variety of textures (glass, fabric, metal, floral) but don't overwhelm the eye
• Think about the viewing angle. Consider eye level for more traditional still life or go wild and choose a different angle. Try a wide variety of viewpoints. Surprise us all!
• Have fun with reflections by looking for interesting interactions between your subject and light
• Avoid having all your still life items in the middle of your reference as this does not create any movement in your painting
• Try a number of options for cropping your images to make them more interesting
• Complicated isn't always best so feel free to keep it more simple
• Remember the Rule of Thirds
• Consider painting far larger than life size to modernize your work and take a traditional item out of context to turn it into a great design

Expect a reply from me within a week from receiving your submission. Keep an eye out for my email which is LisaAOber@gmail.com

Once you hear back from me you will need to either print your photo on good quality GLOSSY PHOTO PAPER only. You may also use a tablet.

I can't wait to see your creative ideas!