How To Draw Water Digitally
Water is a force of nature that can be difficult to capture digitally. It takes a special kind of eye and skill to be able to depict its fluctuating essence in a way that stands out from the rest. Whether you’re tackling a still or a raging river, these tips and tricks will help you learn how to draw water digitally with ease!
Start With The Color
The color of the water is the first thing you have to consider. Do you want it to be crystal clear or an inky blue? To decide, examine a landscape or photograph that you love. Then, get a color chart to decide the exact shade you want. Keep in mind that a single color range combines numerous colors, light and dark.
Once you decide, opt for light colors when it’s calm and mid-tones when it’s more agitated. Don’t forget to include subtle shades of green and reflections of light at different depths. This will really set the mood and make your water drawing stand out!
Focus on the Reflection
Now that you’ve picked the perfect pigmentation, it’s time to think about reflections. Don’t forget that reflections add an extra layer of depth and can transform a simple water drawing into a mesmerizing painting. To make sure your reflections stand out, vary the shapes and shades of the reflecting surfaces.
For example, jagged rocks, smooth pebbles and rolling waves all tell different stories. The trick here is to add enough details to draw the viewer in so that they can create their own story. Lastly, go for bright shades when it’s sunny and muted ones when it’s cloudy.
Add Texture
When it comes to texture, it’s all about keeping it simple. For a fast and easy way to make your digital water look realistic, use lines and dotted strokes to simulate the dimples in the surface. It’s a great way to give the viewer a sense of the shapes of the water’s movement.
You can also use the standard ‘rippling’ effect by creating multiple circles with alternating dark and light colors. Though the lines in the ripples should be more subtle than the ones in the lines, their thickness should vary to make them more realistic. Lastly, remember that texture adds texture to the surface and enhances its movements.
Complete It With Details
The details are what will bring your water drawing to life. To start, play with the opacity of the lines. Different depths, light and shadow will create a dynamic depth and make your water 3D. Then, sprinkle in details like the rocks, sand, seafoam, plants, fallen leaves and bubbles to add to the realistic feel.
Take your time with these little pieces. Ensure that each element is visible enough for the viewer to appreciate it. Finally, express how you felt when you were looking at water digitally by adding nuances with your brush. But be careful to end up with a harmonious result with just the right nuance of tranquility!
