Another update – Two covers for Paizo for their Planet Stories series.

The Ship of Ishtar

The Steppe

Still a work in progress but I’m liking the new direction

Reference. A very useful and important part of illustration. From magazine clippings to a directory stuffed with images from the web. I’ve found reference and its usage, key to producing a well received illustration.

I wrapped up a shoot this weekend with a friend and model Tim Martin (see image above and below) and two new talents Carlos had discovered on Model Mayhem. The shoots came out really well, lots of dynamic posing and character portrayal.

I’ve generally found the more uncomfortable the model is in the pose (contortion wise) the better the result. Figures in art and illustration tend to be over posed or a characterization of their real world self. Which doesn’t mean torture the artist! Just something to keep in mind

Although I have a studio and professional lighting and camera equipment, it really doesn’t take much to setup a well lit scene. A black sheet, $5 automotive / workshop can lights from home depot and a cheap digital camera can do wonders!

Also check out cheap plastic weapons and costumes from party stores – they come out well on camera.