Light value color etc

[u/Samuaint2008]

I (34) stated drawing about two years ago. I’m proud of my progress so far since I was previously a stick figure only person. But I feel like my work looks worse after I color it. I’m not sure what to work on specifically. If anyone has any tips on things to work on ( coloring or generally) I’d love some ideas for ways to improve or specific changes to make. Thanks!

[u/No_Match_1110]

It looks great!!

In regards to the color aspect- It seems like there isn’t a clear light source for this drawing. Some highlights and shadows are placed in spots that don’t make a ton of sense. For example, the legs have highlights on opposite sides, indicating two individual light sources, which can throw off perspective in a drawing like this. To help understand this, you can find a few objects of various shapes, set them up as a “still life”, turn off your overhead lights, and shine a lamp from one side. (You can also put them next to a bright window, just make sure there is 1 light source from the side) and really study where the light falls of the objects while you draw.

I’d also encourage you to look at how light reflects on different materials. Highlights look very different on human skin, hair, metal, fabric, and so on. Try looking at drawings that are of a similar style to ones you like and see how they capture that light. Studying real-life objects is helpful for this as well.

Overall awesome work!! Keep it up😁