Since the first time ive started doing portraits, ive been trying out different methods to give it a real painter feel while achieving photo realism. photo realism on its own is extremely difficult to achieve, so im not disappointed if i havent gotten there yet, but i think i reached the painted look im sooooooo happy i finally figured it out. I may be wrong, so ill let you guys decide

have i hit my goal?


instead of using multiple layers, blend modes, brushes, etc., i used a single layer the entire time, as well as the same brush, for the face. for the freckles i used a seperate layer on the soft light blend mode, as well as a separate layer for the hair. i had to do the two to add photo realistic elements. i didnt used the smudge tool, i never do really, but blended the colors naturally with painting. the brush itself mixes the colors as a real brush would if you didnt clean it out with water after every dab. hope you guys like it!