Paint Better Portraits: Realistic Skin Tones
Brian Neher
Class Preview
0:58
- In-depth Instruction; over 168 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Selecting a Reference Photo
21:41
Meet your instructor, portrait artist Brian Neher, and learn how to identify the difference between warm and cool lighting. Next, practice Brian's methods for setting up and shooting a reference photo that captures daylight beautifully and depicts your subject in the most flattering way possible.
Mixing Warm & Cool Colors
24:22
Learn about the best paints and tools for portraiture, how to set up a palette that you can use daily, and Brian's professional methods for mixing colors for warm and cool skin colors. Next, learn how to identify temperature changes that will bring striking realism to your work.
Gray Matters
18:55
Did you know that grays can be one of the most important elements in your portraits? Brian shows you how to identify and mix a range of grays as you train your eye to see value with more complexity. Explore ways to transition from warm to cool hues by mixing complementary colors with confidence.
Application to Canvas
37:01
Take your paint from palette to canvas as Brian demystifies the challenging block-in phase of portrait painting. Explore ways to draft the major elements of your subject as you learn paint application techniques that will help you control your brush, working from dark to light in the process.
Blending on Canvas
29:33
Blending can be very challenging to master, but has the power to transform a painting into a professional work of art. Brian shares step-by-step demonstrations for blending wet into wet, and shows you how to artfully mix paints using a finger or a dry brush.
Finishing Your Portrait
22:00
Discover ways to revitalize dull areas and add more contrast to the value range after your nearly-finished painting has dried. Brian shares ways to work over dry paint as you push shapes and hues toward a richer, more dimensional look. Next, learn how to add final details that add amazing realism.
Variations: Skin Tone, Age & Gender
14:01
Learn how to apply the techniques you've learned so far to any subject's skin color. Brian explains how to mix paints that will create a wide range of rich warm or cool hues. Finish the class by exploring paint and brushstroke methods that will help define the age and gender of your subject.
Learn how to paint skin tones in oil alongside artist Brian Neher. Start by taking reference photos that complement your subject, and set your palette up for success. Next, build the skills to identify and mix warm and cool skin tones. You’ll also mix a variety of grays that will bring depth to your work. Watch your canvas come to life as you block in major shapes and master brush control techniques that will help you apply paint with confidence. Then, enhance the clarity and richness of your work as Brian walks you through blending skin tones, building contrast and finishing your portrait with lifelike details. Plus, explore brushstroke methods that will help you define the age and gender of your subject.
Brian Neher
Brian Neher is an award-winning artist who has captured the likenesses of clients of all ages. His work has been shown at the Portrait Institute in New York City, as well as in American Artist, Portrait and Figure Painting Highlights, Artists on Art and other art publications. Brian founded the international You Be the Judge art contest to help others reach their artistic goals. He also shares his knowledge through the Neher Signature Training Series, as well as on Craftsy.
Bonus materials available after purchase