It's almost funny when someone says using reference is bad while they use anatomy books, paint from live, use people for portraits as if these things aren't references
Ok I get the point (when useing references is bad) , but the examples were just dumb. Like are the do the people have little to no iq or ? I use references btw but I don't a person trying to make that claim would do some of those things....
well, every artist is referencing from real life, from the things they have seen, from every shape or form. if they say they don't reference, that's plain out lie
@@yourannoyinglittlebrother8595 Kid *you're* hilarious. Clearly *you're* a middle school student. In addition, you must be 10 years old if you use terminology such as "Unless your gay." Moreover, you also applied incorrect grammar. How ironic. For example, you used the word "your" which is possessive and incorrect. It should be ''you're' because it's the contraction of two words, “you” and “are.” Correct example: "Unless *you're* gay." Incorrect example: "Unless your gay." Conclusion, It's *you're* not 'your.' - You stupid Neanderthal.
Exactly. Artists who don't use reference photos have built up a mental library FROM reference. It's just a matter of: Is that reference image in your head or out in front of you.
An artist I like does her sketches in neon green instead of black because it feels less permanent, and it allows her to draw more loosely and not be too precious. Maybe you could try something like that.
Usually i never use references, but last time i used a reference and i was blown away by how it turned out and it took much less time to finish it. So you should try it.
What I've noticed is a fair amount of people mixing up "using a reference" and straight-up tracing. The latter is perfectly understandable why people would be upset. I was in a discussion about this and at first, I couldn't understand how using a reference is wrong but later on in the conversation, I understood the other person legit believed "using references" was a synonym to trace over someone's art or photograph.
When I used to practice I would trace then fill it in and refine. Now I don't feel the need to trace since I have gotten much better 😃 if it's for practice I think it's ok 😊
@@Peayou... indeed it is. I think the only issue is when ppl who should know better, trace and post it as if they didn't trace, and act as if it's their own talent. or if they pretend it's their work and act as if there was no reference. that is scummy. everyone starts somewhere and for practicing and seeing yourself get better where you don't need to trace but be able to use the references, I'm proud of you.
It's okay to trace what is not okay is saying that it's your own drawing after tracing it. Tracing can help you better understand the shape of something and how to draw it again
@@kris-gb8jt that sounds super fun. to make it more interesting, he can try different concepts. like decide, maybe a person this time (and if no skin color, it's gonna be interesting. maybe alien, maybe just an interesting aesthetic). or decide, I'll go with scenery, or an object that those colours inspire. so many avenues. maybe multiple videos playing with the idea. I like it
Some rando who's not qualified at giving art advice: using references is cheating and you're not a real artist Me with my 27 references for one portrait: lol stay mad
@@lonestarr1490 lol i get like 4-5 reference just on lighting on a certain time of day plus this is just an exaggeration for the joke lmao normally i use up to 8-15 references if i need to
No one taught me to use references for the first 3 years of my art journey... I have made more progress in 1 year using references than I did in that entire time. They really do help.
After two years of doing digital art (and having a rough start due to almost no experience, so basically starting from scratch and learning how to do basic coloring), I tried to not use a reference a few weeks ago, both because it was frustrating that I couldn’t draw without one, and because I wanted to see if I could. And it turned out incredibly well. It’s astonishing to realize just how much information my brain has actually stored; things I didn’t even know I knew in the first place but which I’d learned along the way without even realizing. I’m so glad I used references from the very beginning, otherwise I don’t think I would’ve even made it past a few weeks without getting too frustrated about how my drawings wouldn’t turn out quite right.
hello sam! you posted just when i needed some cheering up skdjsks hope you have a good day! your art looks amazing as always, so inspiring. I'm in awe again 💙
I was that evil person who suggested a challenge without a reference hehe, loved the video and the art Sam💕 Thank you for listening to your subscribers means a lot❤
I would love to see you redo this painting using references. It would be interesting to see the improvement (or maybe not....doubtful) between the two. It would also be good to compare the time saved by using refs. Thanks for the great content!
Actually, I only recently decided to try using references and copying my favorite artists after watching Sam strongly suggest it. I always avoided it cuz it felt wrong, or like I wasn’t doing the art myself. Long story short, drop that mindset. References are great and super helpful. Thanks Sam!
I mean, sometimes I don’t use a reference and it turns out amazingly. Other times, I don’t and it turns out alright too. The opposite is true as well. It really just depends on the artist and their state of mind. Having said that, if you want references, go ahead. If you don’t, go ahead. Far be it from me to tell anyone how to make art when I am NOT their teacher. 😂👍🏻
Whenever I paint without a reference I’m constantly annoyed thinking, “Hmm is this realistic? Hmm does this make sense? Did I do something wrong here? What should this really look like?” Using references is just more enjoyable imo
If you don't allow yourself to draw by your mind an keep thinking in words in your own head you won't think straight, and you won't be able to put an image in your own head if you have words in the way. That's why you always use a reference: because you keep putting things in the way in your head instead of enjoying drawing without using a reference. Hope you get my point
I face the same thing. It's probably cause I'm not fully familiar with the general anatomy. So I'm currently trying get better at understanding that. 😌
Loved this video.. I never used references when I started drawing and it's nice to hear your struggles I faced as well, like many layers and doubt about creases.. keep on the good work 💪
great job! nice humor lol made me laugh and thanks for the advice, I just started tapping into digital art, it has been ten years since I practiced. Things can only improve from here. subscribed! tk
Haha that’s great for you but I am the opposite I tend to always start with a reference even if I don’t need it as it also helps with ideas and such. Of course everyone has different processes though so I am not one to judge.
@@piney_studios You are judging. It's not difference, either you use reference or NOT; that's the difference. Relying on references is bad. And assuming you "get ideas" from references is STEALING.
@@zytotempol8154 yes you are correct, but for some art pieces I want to turn out well I like using references to make sure I didn’t mess up the anatomy or the perspective/ made sure the lighting is accurate Small details are what make a drawing come together so I don’t see why references are bad? I can make art with and without so why not use the extra resources if it’s there? I’m not copying, and I can always just put credit to whoever created the references if I decide to post my artwork soooo
@@piney_studios Thank you. Turn out well? Why? Your art looks better without reference, it doesn't matter how it looks. The art should be coming from you, not from something else. I know you like using reference, but if you keep using reference is not from you, and they're be no feeling to it. To make sure you don't mess up on anatomy perspective or make sure the lighting is accurate? Dude, it's just art. Art is not messed up, it's art. It's messed up if you keep thinking or having someone thinking is messed up. It's your art, it's not a thing to mess up lol. And so what if the anatomy, perspective, and/or lighting is messed up.. it makes it unique, not the same. Same is boring and uninterested when it's the same. Accurate is not different. You can make small details, big details, whatever you like it, doesn't matter. Reference is bad because you're using it for....Idk, like what are you using it for, are you using it for because somebody told you to use it, everybody else is using it, or what? You're using reference because you want to make it look "correct" or "accurate" instead of drawing the things your own way, in the way you want to draw it. That's why I feel like it's bad using reference. It don't need to be "correct" or "accurate"; it's art, art could an can be anything you want. Focus an you know what to draw. That goes for a perspective: figure out what you want to draw and then draw it. Lighting: you can do lighting whatever you want it, don't have to be exactly the way you see in reality or what you observe, or if you observe it. That's good you could do art without reference and do more of it. But when you're using reference so much how you can able to do without it, especially if you want an idea of something without reference!? The source can be there or not, and a lot of time is not..especially if you want something that was from your head that's not the same as reference. Then don't copy but if you do credit on somebody that if you are using someone else's reference, good. You have to make sure that your art is from you not from a reference, because every reference you have.. you have to credit or show it regardless. ~And if you don't want to keep showing it or keep putting credit (even though you know that you have to)..that's why it's better to do without reference. •Because without reference.. you don't have to credit anything but only your mind 😌lol.
Basically you can paint using no references if you use a lot of references and use inspiration from real life your mind will be able to expand your view of real life. So yes, references help a lot especially with posing and they increase visualization skills.
Hey Sam, great video! Learned a lot again, as usual :). For stylized works, like semi-real, anime/manga, etc, what’s your take on referencing those types of works that are say, “simplified” vs photos? And what are your thoughts on if the derivative work ends up feeling like the original, especially from a “plagiarism” angle? Thanks!
Woahh i really enjoyed the progress of this painting...never knew that was exactly what i needed to watch rn. Thank you for sharing this. I'm kinda new here, but im really happy youtube recommended this vid to me 😅💕💕
Hey, you inspired me to start drawing and i want to start studying anatomy, but i don't know how you should approach doing studies and I also don't know which method will help or be a waste of time. Could you make a tutorial about how you should approach studies pls.
Comic and concept artist here! The biggest help you'll find is to just start drawing people from reference. Quick gesture sketches and prolonged projects trying to get every nuance of the body right help a lot. Learning proportions also helps. I recommend the shrimp method from tumblr for quick learning.
I’ve never understood how anyone could shame the use of references. Art throughout history & modern school literally uses it daily; live, in-the-flesh figure drawing as an example?! That’s a reference. I roll my eyes so hard at the ‘artists’ that try and gatekeep other artists from developing new skills and learning. It’s ludicrous. OR they say ‘I draw from imagination’… 1: how do you know you got it right? 2: your memory is a reference from things observed in the world… ugh. It frustrates me so I actually had to stop lurking and comment here. Also - I absolutely love your channel, and you! Your art style is fantastic. Thanks for your amazing videos, Sam!
Hey sam. So for a while I didn't use references photos since my style was a lot more cartoonish and not realistic. The characters and their anatomy were very much my own. I recently found your channel and started getting back to realism to practice with normal human proportions and I did a photo realistic peice. A lot of people were saying that they could barely tell the difference save for the few changes i made to stuff like the hair and background which i changed to fit the way is doing it. I was very proud of myself and impressed at how much I'd been hurting my self esteem and stunting my growth by never using refrences. I wanted to show it to my Production Art teacher and school and she was impressed until I showed her the reference and it almost seemed as of she was comparing using a reference photo to tracing it. Which I did not trace. I have nothing against tracing, it actually did help me with learning the shape of skulls in the past but for this one I didn't trace at all it was all from comparing the two. I thought I would actually get good feedback by showing it to my art teacher but she seemed more like she didn't actually believe that I did drew it by hand. This may have been related to the fact that she like traditional art and the piece I made was digital. I know you probably won't actually read this but to any other viewers in the comments who are reading this... Help me. Someone come roast my art teacher please. :)
I love how he says "Drawing without a reference" so dramatically , i guess most people use references. (This is a joke i dont hate on ppl who use references i just dot use them much personally but its very useful)
💙💙💙💙 I can't even trace properly😭 I don't even know why I'm watching your videos when I can't even draw a stickman properly Actually I know but it may sound creepy if I say it out loud Ok I'll just say it I like your voice it's like ASMR 😂😭
@@zytotempol8154 it is 100% referencing. which is a good thing, mind you. to come up with something new ever, in any medium, you need to refer to something else. that is fact. any thought you have only exists because of things you learned in the past. and to conjure new thoughts without referring to anything is not possible. just as trying to imagine a new color is, or trying to conceive the 4th dimension.
@@funl Excuse me? Who are you and why you're spreading your opinion? "It is 100% referencing." ~Prove it. Because References is WAY different from the mind; so what are you talking about? A good thing on what, reference? Uh no. That's theft if you think referencing is a "good" thing. "To come up with something new ever, in any medium, you need to refer to something else." ~The hell that's supposed to mean? You can't need to refer to something else if it's new. So it's your opinion; opinions are not "facts". "Any thought you have only exists because of the things you learned in the past." ~And where did you assume that? That's your opinion. Not everyone and me sees *everything* in the past nor the future. The mind has imagination way didn't from your memory. "and to conjure new thoughts without referring to anything is not possible." ~Exuse me? Did your parents ever told you about " *nothing is impossible* ", or is it because you just don't have the mindset to stick with it to able to know that your mind can conjure up new things, that is possible in reality without seeing things *in reality* ? I guess they never taught you that nor you have that ability. You can't say it's "not possible" well you don't even have the ability nor never explored it. So you calling me fake? Because my mind conjure up all kinds of new things. "just as trying imagine a new color is, or trying to conceive the fourth dimension." ~That's not trying my friend, that's an ability.
@@zytotempol8154 hey, I don't think you actually understand what the word reference means. And I'm not trying to be mean. so just to be clear, can you tell me what you think the word reference means?
@@funl Uh, why are you repeating the same sentence "I don't think you actually understand what the word reference mean" like you said in the other comment post? I said Idc what it means nor understanding it. I don't use it because I don't do what others do. I never said you were being mean, I said Idc because I DO NOT USE REFERENCES lol. You seriously sound like this other dude. Can I tell you what reference mean? Uh lol, reference is copying obviously. Reference is something that you see and observe, similar to copying, like drawing what you see like YOU SAID. Is the same word as copying. If you don't think is the same word as copying then you don't know it nor understand it. Edit: And you keep pointing what reference is...so..
Knowledge, yes, but also experience. Theoretical knowledge isn't worth much if you lack the confidence and fine control in your hand to put it to work. Ray Bradbury once advised that, if you want to become a better writer, write a short story every week for a whole year. Because nobody can write 52 bad stories. I feel pretty much the same applies to painting.
True, true. Even when you paint with reference, the important thing is to learn something new from it, otherwise you won't improve! You would slowly gather this 'knowledge' of how to paint various things, and that can help you become a better artist.
As a kid, since I never took no art education at all or whatsoever, I have been always painting from my imagination, or by how I remembered the cartoons I watched. Since it was always a hobby, until much later I hadn't even known what a reference was. I think that affected my progress, I'm learning to use references now, as a grown up, but by combining both methods, I can say I'm pretty happy because I can easily transfer the perspective, composition and anatomy from my head and complete things like light and detail with references. There's always hope!!
Another reason to use a reference is because it usually takes awhile to finish a painting, so after awhile you'll start to forget the small details of what you were in visioning at the beginning.
Some people said using reference is good for practice but we cant use it too much because it will be tracing or re drawing whats already exist. I think its different case if you are trying to draw something reslistic like a human face or something i think thats fine to use reference unless you will use the reference to re adapt it to your kind of style....
Yes. Use a reference to learn whenever you like to, but also do one that doesn’t have a reference from time to time. Both, I think is very important for an artist :))
this is the earliest i'll probably ever be so I just want to tell you right now sam, thank you SO much for your videos. i was feeling really frustrated because i feel like my art was stagnating, but after getting into your videos i've made so much progress that I'm super happy with. i did my first background that i genuinely really liked recently and that's all thanks to your video on backgrounds. so again, thank you so much!!!
This right here is why I'm taking a personal effort to better my art/learn everything I can. I see stuff like this and I say, "I wanna do that!". I love this piece and everything you've done.
References sure are really helpful if you haven't done something before and build up knowledge on it. But using references can also surely close your mind. Practicing to do things from imagination more, opens up your mind to be able to imagine things easily more in future. Using reference is good sometimes only to an extent. Like for example, you tell a group of people to draw home and everyone draws home according to what they understood. Some might draw forest, some cities some tents saying they love to travel so home is where they go. And then you take another group and show them a picture of a proper building or a house in town. And tell them to draw home. They all will surely make proper buildings and houses. Refremce is great for practice, but to practice your mind for long run, try to focus on imagination is great
Well those are the people that are not gifted and are a little lazy. I believe that references are not helpful and it shouldn't be something that a person 'haven't done something before'.. because there's a drawing I haven't done before and I do it without a reference. I never use references myself, never had and never will. It's not building knowledge by using references because a person still uses references.. so. Using reference can surely close the mind; exactly, always did. ...But you're saying it's helpful to use references!? Using the imagination is better than using references. Mm
You're sort of making a good point but not really. But imagination is better than references. Actually.. is buildings and houses are home to you, are they? When a person doesn't show you a picture and person says that "describe and draw what is home to you".. because home is totally different from where you live now or live before; what do you think what home is? Not wherever you live, because what if that's not the home to you!?
You're sort of making a good point but not really. But imagination is better than references. Actually.. is buildings and houses are home to you, are they? When a person doesn't show you a picture and person says that "describe and draw what is home to you".. because home is totally different from where you live now or live before; what do you think what home is? Not wherever you live, because what if that's not the home to you!?
For anyone who missed it, he decided not to reshoot the entire video and just let the chain stay caught on his jacket for the duration. He notices it after filming the entire thing. true bruh moment for sure.
I think its good to draw from your imagination, every once and a while i think that people can grow dependent on references, and lose confidence in themselves, feeling or thinking that they are incapable of drawing without a reference.
@@zytotempol8154 Not really better, both ways are good. It's kinda your opinion that it's better, sorry. Reference isn't better either, if you use it right then you're good. It's also not intended to copy the entire thing.
Drawing 100% from imagination doesn't really teach you anything, or improve you much as an artist. You just tread water, and repeat things you already know (or don't know). If you're already good, art turns out good, but you don't become better. Drawing 100% from reference isn't art either, it's copying. The key is in the middle ground, where you copy something but add something of your own. Or using multiple references for same image, so then it's not copying, but combining things in a new way
@@shredd5705 "Drawing 100% from imagination doesn't really teach you anything" ~And who says? Because you're jealous 'cause you can't use it?! Mm. So how are you still allowed to able to use a brain, you don't have a brain? If the brain doesn't teach you so how you're able to do anything in this world or say anything in this world, think, and etc? Keep your opinion to yourself. That paragraph right there has no sense, nor meaning.. because it's a myth. "Or improve you as an artist" ~Ppfftt lol! Ok, now I know you just saying that out of your own butt. A person that draws from the imagination is taught through imagination and able to get better as an artist, and if you don't understand that, it's because you're jealous then; that's your problem. If you don't think it exists then why you even here!? How can a person trend water without even learning? You jealous tho. What are you, 1 years old with no brain?! Mm. See, you contradicting yourself. You're so in deniable that even a person that doesn't know can tread water... So whatever you're saying makes 0 sense.
@@shredd5705 "If you're already good, art turns out good, but you don't become better." ~Are you just being an insultor who criticized and being judgmental by gaslighting and gatekeeping? Mm. It's not about a person that's already good or getting good if the art turns good.. it's art regardless no matter if you're good or not. The person is better. And atleast they're drawing. Now I know why people put themselves down.. it's 'cause of YOU. "Drawing 100% from reference is an art either, it's copying." ~Only reference is not art; and yes, of course it's copying.. and that I will agree; but now you say one thing, then another, and I believe you're not even understanding what you're talking about nor understanding about the art world.
Rn I’m working on some fanart, but just because everything in the picture comes straight from my brain doesn’t mean that i’m not using references for the characters and small details that I’m unsure of like hands and the proportions and stuff. Use references :D
Sam, I think you should try adding a bit more fur texture to the dog and tiny highlights to its nose. Also, if you add some back strands with the highlight colour in the hair, it will look a bit more natural. Otherwise, your depth and lighting is perfect and I love your stylisation! Great job man!
Ty for the info sam does arts. Im not a beginner in art but im not that great so im trying to get more better and improve and im starting to love my style of art, (idk my style but i dont care about that right now)…. So this helps a lot!
References simply show you how your subject would look in nature, and you can use different references to compose a coherent painting. What I mean is that you can take different references of fruit and put it together in a fruit bowl. No one apple looks the same, but you need to know what an apple looks like, how light falls on it, and what colors are commonly found in the apple in order to accurately reproduce an apple in your fruit bowl. Edit: I used to think that using a reference is basically just tracing, but it isn’t. It’s using something that exists to create your own pieces. Using a reference is so important to being a good artist because it literally teaches you about what the world looks like.
Use references guys pls
Okiii
Okay
Stylus in the eye for ppl that says no
I feel like I cant ever find references or know how to search for them cause i never get what I'm searching for
Ok 👌🏻
It's almost funny when someone says using reference is bad while they use anatomy books, paint from live, use people for portraits as if these things aren't references
This is 400 IQ, I never thought of that. Probably cuz of my 60 IQ! Great point
Right! People never get it
Ok I get the point (when useing references is bad) , but the examples were just dumb. Like are the do the people have little to no iq or ? I use references btw but I don't a person trying to make that claim would do some of those things....
YOU TELL EM. #LIFEISREFERENCE
@@Artoonzie Lol :)
“If anybody shames you for using a reference 😠🖊- I’m just kidding” are you tho. Are you really 😂
"for legal reasons, this is a joke."
@@Row. 😂
@@Row. i audibly laughed at this lol
When you're internally shaming yourself for using reference :o
@@Row. lmfao
well, every artist is referencing from real life, from the things they have seen, from every shape or form. if they say they don't reference, that's plain out lie
@@yourannoyinglittlebrother8595 Kid *you're* hilarious. Clearly *you're* a middle school student. In addition, you must be 10 years old if you use terminology such as "Unless your gay."
Moreover, you also applied incorrect grammar. How ironic. For example, you used the word "your" which is possessive and incorrect. It should be ''you're' because it's the contraction of two words, “you” and “are.”
Correct example: "Unless *you're* gay."
Incorrect example: "Unless your gay."
Conclusion, It's *you're* not 'your.'
- You stupid Neanderthal.
@@Rust·Spencer·Cohle I'm gonna tell my mom
Exactly. Artists who don't use reference photos have built up a mental library FROM reference. It's just a matter of: Is that reference image in your head or out in front of you.
@@yourannoyinglittlebrother8595 So, what if he was. Homophobic?
@@MarkShawMedia Holly poop you have a point
I'm sorry for my childish action's I take full responsibility of this. I am sorry
He does his sketch step so fast! I tend to overthink so much about how each line will affect my painting in the future.
same
@@sifhsosjrbrisla omg didn’t notice that! People please dont like this any more
@@ahr1031995 rip
Bc he did this a million times
An artist I like does her sketches in neon green instead of black because it feels less permanent, and it allows her to draw more loosely and not be too precious. Maybe you could try something like that.
Usually i never use references, but last time i used a reference and i was blown away by how it turned out and it took much less time to finish it. So you should try it.
Easy
Lazy
I get ideas and can’t find reference for them so I just rely on how I see it in my head mostly
@@itsanemmamergency7623 Use 3D modeling at least for characters.
@@zytotempol8154 Cap
@Zyto Tempol shut your mouth or I'll come to your house and eat it.
What I've noticed is a fair amount of people mixing up "using a reference" and straight-up tracing. The latter is perfectly understandable why people would be upset. I was in a discussion about this and at first, I couldn't understand how using a reference is wrong but later on in the conversation, I understood the other person legit believed "using references" was a synonym to trace over someone's art or photograph.
When I used to practice I would trace then fill it in and refine. Now I don't feel the need to trace since I have gotten much better 😃 if it's for practice I think it's ok 😊
@@Peayou... indeed it is. I think the only issue is when ppl who should know better, trace and post it as if they didn't trace, and act as if it's their own talent. or if they pretend it's their work and act as if there was no reference. that is scummy. everyone starts somewhere and for practicing and seeing yourself get better where you don't need to trace but be able to use the references, I'm proud of you.
It's okay to trace what is not okay is saying that it's your own drawing after tracing it.
Tracing can help you better understand the shape of something and how to draw it again
@@bungeepete7393 yes exactly 💯 agree with you:D
@@ggundercover3681
🤦Lol
No everyone startts somewhere like anyone does.
Here's a challenge for you: Use only three colours, we'll see how this goes.
black white and gray
@@Amatersuful lol you can create a character with just those 3 colors.
DrawingWiffWaffles made those kind of videos before.
Cherilyn's Arts oh I love drawing wife waffles
@@kris-gb8jt that sounds super fun. to make it more interesting, he can try different concepts. like decide, maybe a person this time (and if no skin color, it's gonna be interesting. maybe alien, maybe just an interesting aesthetic). or decide, I'll go with scenery, or an object that those colours inspire. so many avenues. maybe multiple videos playing with the idea. I like it
... give me the primary colours 😂😂😂
first, just wanted to do it once in my life
Feel like a changed man?
Feel like a god?
Fourth, same here
Feel… cultured?
No you are second
That necklace woke up today and chose violence
Some rando who's not qualified at giving art advice: using references is cheating and you're not a real artist
Me with my 27 references for one portrait: lol stay mad
27 references? Are you doing cubism?
pro artists use a mood/ref board, one or more for each component of the piece
ive seen some even ref a single ear in a certain lighting
@@lonestarr1490 lol i get like 4-5 reference just on lighting on a certain time of day
plus this is just an exaggeration for the joke lmao
normally i use up to 8-15 references if i need to
And that's the right way to do it!
I could never even keep count lmaoo
No one taught me to use references for the first 3 years of my art journey... I have made more progress in 1 year using references than I did in that entire time. They really do help.
After two years of doing digital art (and having a rough start due to almost no experience, so basically starting from scratch and learning how to do basic coloring), I tried to not use a reference a few weeks ago, both because it was frustrating that I couldn’t draw without one, and because I wanted to see if I could. And it turned out incredibly well. It’s astonishing to realize just how much information my brain has actually stored; things I didn’t even know I knew in the first place but which I’d learned along the way without even realizing. I’m so glad I used references from the very beginning, otherwise I don’t think I would’ve even made it past a few weeks without getting too frustrated about how my drawings wouldn’t turn out quite right.
well now i wish i could see your artworks
hello sam! you posted just when i needed some cheering up skdjsks hope you have a good day! your art looks amazing as always, so inspiring. I'm in awe again 💙
I was that evil person who suggested a challenge without a reference hehe, loved the video and the art Sam💕 Thank you for listening to your subscribers means a lot❤
It was you? Thanks for bringing up the cool idea :D
@@sofithepig9860 Aww thank you
Its a real challenge to paint without reference. You did a smashing job on this one as expected!
whenever I feel extra creative I don't use a reference and kinda blob everything on until I get something I like.
me too! it feels really good sometimes to just put something down cuz you feel like it!
Congratulations
I would love to see you redo this painting using references. It would be interesting to see the improvement (or maybe not....doubtful) between the two. It would also be good to compare the time saved by using refs. Thanks for the great content!
Your opinion
Actually, I only recently decided to try using references and copying my favorite artists after watching Sam strongly suggest it. I always avoided it cuz it felt wrong, or like I wasn’t doing the art myself. Long story short, drop that mindset. References are great and super helpful. Thanks Sam!
me who never uses a reference: *I see the error in my ways*
Not me
I dont use it either
X2 I try to use but I end up messing up everything
I mean, sometimes I don’t use a reference and it turns out amazingly. Other times, I don’t and it turns out alright too. The opposite is true as well. It really just depends on the artist and their state of mind. Having said that, if you want references, go ahead. If you don’t, go ahead. Far be it from me to tell anyone how to make art when I am NOT their teacher. 😂👍🏻
Now that I've think about it, I've never seen Sam wearing only casual clothes. His drip is always on point.
Whenever I paint without a reference I’m constantly annoyed thinking, “Hmm is this realistic? Hmm does this make sense? Did I do something wrong here? What should this really look like?” Using references is just more enjoyable imo
If you don't allow yourself to draw by your mind an keep thinking in words in your own head you won't think straight, and you won't be able to put an image in your own head if you have words in the way. That's why you always use a reference: because you keep putting things in the way in your head instead of enjoying drawing without using a reference.
Hope you get my point
I face the same thing. It's probably cause I'm not fully familiar with the general anatomy. So I'm currently trying get better at understanding that. 😌
@@nittynotkitty
🥱......🤦
@@zytotempol8154 umm? Did I say something wrong?
@@nittynotkitty
No lol. It's just your comment literally made me yawn.
In the end you still chose violence xD
It would be really cool to see some fan art from you, your take on some fictional characters!
Stunning painting! but what is even more stunning that he sits straight in the whole video! This guy isn't human
Loved this video.. I never used references when I started drawing and it's nice to hear your struggles I faced as well, like many layers and doubt about creases.. keep on the good work 💪
Sam: Can you paint without reference?
Me: Haha no good joke
Well, you're not an artist if you paint with reference.
@@zytotempol8154 an artist is not about painting and drawing. Is about how u see the world
@@arcticed6708
Wrong. It's about the heart, mind, soul and drawing to enjoy.
@@zytotempol8154 dont u realize, u can see the world more clearly after being an artist?
@@arcticed6708
Huh???
Comments: Exist
RUclips: Hmmmm
Me: Can I see them?
RUclips: Nah.
Me: *Understandable, have a great day*
U should put it to newest first
“which is not a whole lot...” I felt that💀
great job! nice humor lol made me laugh and thanks for the advice, I just started tapping into digital art, it has been ten years since I practiced. Things can only improve from here. subscribed! tk
"I'll be using a lot more layers..." ends up with 5 layers
Meanwhile me with my 11 layered sketch:
me with 20layers👁️👄👁️
I use 60-
Me with my 231 layers and still not lagging:🙂
I prefer to work without reference unless absolutely necessary. Sometimes it gets in the way, but when its needed, it's absolutely necessary.
Haha that’s great for you but I am the opposite I tend to always start with a reference even if I don’t need it as it also helps with ideas and such. Of course everyone has different processes though so I am not one to judge.
@@piney_studios
You are judging.
It's not difference, either you use reference or NOT; that's the difference. Relying on references is bad. And assuming you "get ideas" from references is STEALING.
🤦🤨. Good. But references are not necessary. Why? Without reference, it's good to challenge yourself.
@@zytotempol8154 yes you are correct, but for some art pieces I want to turn out well I like using references to make sure I didn’t mess up the anatomy or the perspective/ made sure the lighting is accurate
Small details are what make a drawing come together so I don’t see why references are bad?
I can make art with and without so why not use the extra resources if it’s there?
I’m not copying, and I can always just put credit to whoever created the references if I decide to post my artwork soooo
@@piney_studios
Thank you.
Turn out well? Why? Your art looks better without reference, it doesn't matter how it looks. The art should be coming from you, not from something else.
I know you like using reference, but if you keep using reference is not from you, and they're be no feeling to it.
To make sure you don't mess up on anatomy perspective or make sure the lighting is accurate? Dude, it's just art. Art is not messed up, it's art. It's messed up if you keep thinking or having someone thinking is messed up. It's your art, it's not a thing to mess up lol.
And so what if the anatomy, perspective, and/or lighting is messed up.. it makes it unique, not the same. Same is boring and uninterested when it's the same. Accurate is not different.
You can make small details, big details, whatever you like it, doesn't matter. Reference is bad because you're using it for....Idk, like what are you using it for, are you using it for because somebody told you to use it, everybody else is using it, or what? You're using reference because you want to make it look "correct" or "accurate" instead of drawing the things your own way, in the way you want to draw it. That's why I feel like it's bad using reference.
It don't need to be "correct" or "accurate"; it's art, art could an can be anything you want. Focus an you know what to draw.
That goes for a perspective: figure out what you want to draw and then draw it.
Lighting: you can do lighting whatever you want it, don't have to be exactly the way you see in reality or what you observe, or if you observe it.
That's good you could do art without reference and do more of it. But when you're using reference so much how you can able to do without it, especially if you want an idea of something without reference!?
The source can be there or not, and a lot of time is not..especially if you want something that was from your head that's not the same as reference.
Then don't copy but if you do credit on somebody that if you are using someone else's reference, good. You have to make sure that your art is from you not from a reference, because every reference you have.. you have to credit or show it regardless.
~And if you don't want to keep showing it or keep putting credit (even though you know that you have to)..that's why it's better to do without reference.
•Because without reference.. you don't have to credit anything but only your mind 😌lol.
I really get inspired by your artwork ;)
Lol
Challenge: Paint in an entirely different style
Woww...this really motivated and helped me a lot...thank you so much❤️ love your works✨
That painterly style🤩
When you watch alll the ads until the end so that your favourite artist gets the money they deserve
You are my favorite artist
Thanks for insuring me every day :-]
I thought you said "insulting" 🤣
I thought you said "infusing me everyday".
🤣
YAS another great video from big brother sam! Also I've never been so early too 😂
Ppfftt lol!!!
That lil doggo is just so happy to be sitting next to their human.
Hi, sam. Love your videos, they inspire me so much ❤
"instead of absorbing information i see in front of me, im just taking what i have in here *points at brain*, which is not a whole lot" 😂☠️
Good. Uh, The brain has a whole lot, you just don't want to use it..or because it's not open for you🤷. The mind is better without references.
Sam: We don’t condone violence
Also sam: Keeps the skull of his enemy’s on his desk…
I love how you drew the lil' woofer! Any tips or cues on drawing dogs and cats in general?
Why ask him on tips if he uses references. He just gonna tell you "use reference", 'cause he lazy.
i love how you zoom in on your face, makes it your videos more entertaining/funny
This is one of the only drawings sam started with the subject
Me who's always too lazy to pick a reference- 👀
Oof I felt that
Same I just wing it most of the time
I find drawing with an reference very difficult for me. I prefer to draw from memory or just completely wing it. 😅
Next challenge: Give us fashion advice
Please I need it. 🙏
"Well yeah of course you can!"
*trying to do it*
"So... what we were talking about?"
Basically you can paint using no references if you use a lot of references and use inspiration from real life your mind will be able to expand your view of real life. So yes, references help a lot especially with posing and they increase visualization skills.
Sam talking about using references-
Me-YEAH KOOLAID
🤣
This is so cool, you’re so talented :)
Your opinion
@@zytotempol8154 i dont think anyone was debating that
Your opinion
@@funl
Idc, that's their opinion.
@@funl
Talent is using WITHOUT references
Hey Sam, great video! Learned a lot again, as usual :). For stylized works, like semi-real, anime/manga, etc, what’s your take on referencing those types of works that are say, “simplified” vs photos? And what are your thoughts on if the derivative work ends up feeling like the original, especially from a “plagiarism” angle? Thanks!
Lol🤣
Shaming an art reference is like not being allowed to appreciate a quote and live by it
That makes 0 sense
*You're the best Sam!*
Woahh i really enjoyed the progress of this painting...never knew that was exactly what i needed to watch rn. Thank you for sharing this. I'm kinda new here, but im really happy youtube recommended this vid to me 😅💕💕
Hey, you inspired me to start drawing and i want to start studying anatomy, but i don't know how you should approach doing studies and I also don't know which method will help or be a waste of time. Could you make a tutorial about how you should approach studies pls.
Comic and concept artist here! The biggest help you'll find is to just start drawing people from reference. Quick gesture sketches and prolonged projects trying to get every nuance of the body right help a lot. Learning proportions also helps. I recommend the shrimp method from tumblr for quick learning.
Suggestion: draw this piece (or concept) again using references and compare
if people shame you for using a reference... tell them to try and draw the same thing with out reference.
How are they shaming? If a person is using reference they the ones are shaming themselves; DUUHH.
Me!? I draw without references, so HA.
I’ve never understood how anyone could shame the use of references. Art throughout history & modern school literally uses it daily; live, in-the-flesh figure drawing as an example?! That’s a reference. I roll my eyes so hard at the ‘artists’ that try and gatekeep other artists from developing new skills and learning. It’s ludicrous. OR they say ‘I draw from imagination’… 1: how do you know you got it right? 2: your memory is a reference from things observed in the world… ugh. It frustrates me so I actually had to stop lurking and comment here.
Also - I absolutely love your channel, and you! Your art style is fantastic. Thanks for your amazing videos, Sam!
Hey sam. So for a while I didn't use references photos since my style was a lot more cartoonish and not realistic. The characters and their anatomy were very much my own. I recently found your channel and started getting back to realism to practice with normal human proportions and I did a photo realistic peice. A lot of people were saying that they could barely tell the difference save for the few changes i made to stuff like the hair and background which i changed to fit the way is doing it. I was very proud of myself and impressed at how much I'd been hurting my self esteem and stunting my growth by never using refrences. I wanted to show it to my Production Art teacher and school and she was impressed until I showed her the reference and it almost seemed as of she was comparing using a reference photo to tracing it. Which I did not trace. I have nothing against tracing, it actually did help me with learning the shape of skulls in the past but for this one I didn't trace at all it was all from comparing the two.
I thought I would actually get good feedback by showing it to my art teacher but she seemed more like she didn't actually believe that I did drew it by hand. This may have been related to the fact that she like traditional art and the piece I made was digital. I know you probably won't actually read this but to any other viewers in the comments who are reading this... Help me. Someone come roast my art teacher please. :)
sam, I want to see how you make a character wearing a hijab, I'm curious how it will look when it is drawn in your style✨
I always felt bad I needed reference..but no more. Since I'm self taught I don't know what's right, so i just learn random things
🤦
Self-taught is using without references
I love how he says "Drawing without a reference" so dramatically , i guess most people use references. (This is a joke i dont hate on ppl who use references i just dot use them much personally but its very useful)
References are not useful
i love your art so much!!!
The fact that SAM A VERY GOOD ARTIST uses reference proves that there's nothing wrong with using references
💙💙💙💙
I can't even trace properly😭 I don't even know why I'm watching your videos when I can't even draw a stickman properly
Actually I know but it may sound creepy if I say it out loud
Ok I'll just say it I like your voice it's like ASMR 😂😭
I AGREE, HIS VOICE IS SO RELAXING!!
You're always drawing with refrence. Only difference, is that instead of looking up into a book or Google.. you just look up into your brain
That's your opinion.
-Using the mind is not "still using reference"; it's different from the reference.
@@zytotempol8154 it is 100% referencing. which is a good thing, mind you. to come up with something new ever, in any medium, you need to refer to something else. that is fact. any thought you have only exists because of things you learned in the past. and to conjure new thoughts without referring to anything is not possible. just as trying to imagine a new color is, or trying to conceive the 4th dimension.
@@funl
Excuse me? Who are you and why you're spreading your opinion?
"It is 100% referencing." ~Prove it. Because References is WAY different from the mind; so what are you talking about? A good thing on what, reference? Uh no. That's theft if you think referencing is a "good" thing.
"To come up with something new ever, in any medium, you need to refer to something else." ~The hell that's supposed to mean? You can't need to refer to something else if it's new. So it's your opinion; opinions are not "facts".
"Any thought you have only exists because of the things you learned in the past." ~And where did you assume that? That's your opinion. Not everyone and me sees *everything* in the past nor the future. The mind has imagination way didn't from your memory.
"and to conjure new thoughts without referring to anything is not possible." ~Exuse me? Did your parents ever told you about " *nothing is impossible* ", or is it because you just don't have the mindset to stick with it to able to know that your mind can conjure up new things, that is possible in reality without seeing things *in reality* ? I guess they never taught you that nor you have that ability. You can't say it's "not possible" well you don't even have the ability nor never explored it. So you calling me fake? Because my mind conjure up all kinds of new things.
"just as trying imagine a new color is, or trying to conceive the fourth dimension." ~That's not trying my friend, that's an ability.
@@zytotempol8154 hey, I don't think you actually understand what the word reference means. And I'm not trying to be mean.
so just to be clear, can you tell me what you think the word reference means?
@@funl
Uh, why are you repeating the same sentence "I don't think you actually understand what the word reference mean" like you said in the other comment post? I said Idc what it means nor understanding it. I don't use it because I don't do what others do.
I never said you were being mean, I said Idc because I DO NOT USE REFERENCES lol. You seriously sound like this other dude.
Can I tell you what reference mean? Uh lol, reference is copying obviously. Reference is something that you see and observe, similar to copying, like drawing what you see like YOU SAID. Is the same word as copying. If you don't think is the same word as copying then you don't know it nor understand it.
Edit: And you keep pointing what reference is...so..
I used references, but still hate my arts. 😂😂 Lol Guess its not about reference its about ur knowledge. 🤔🤔
Knowledge, yes, but also experience. Theoretical knowledge isn't worth much if you lack the confidence and fine control in your hand to put it to work.
Ray Bradbury once advised that, if you want to become a better writer, write a short story every week for a whole year. Because nobody can write 52 bad stories. I feel pretty much the same applies to painting.
True, true. Even when you paint with reference, the important thing is to learn something new from it, otherwise you won't improve! You would slowly gather this 'knowledge' of how to paint various things, and that can help you become a better artist.
No
You hate your art because you're using reference
Anyone else also noticed how Sam's videos always have LIT music??? I am like 🕺🕺🕺💃💃💃every time I click on one of his videos.
Helpful recommend ideas for me!
Tks, bro!
Bro I love your style
I love this piece
I didn't notice the necklace until after you pointed it out (and now I can't unsee it).
Liked for the motivation part when you say reference is not a thing to be shamed. ❤️
Luv you everything
Now I know why I'm not improving at all 😅. This helps a lot!😍love your works, Sam!
As a kid, since I never took no art education at all or whatsoever, I have been always painting from my imagination, or by how I remembered the cartoons I watched. Since it was always a hobby, until much later I hadn't even known what a reference was. I think that affected my progress, I'm learning to use references now, as a grown up, but by combining both methods, I can say I'm pretty happy because I can easily transfer the perspective, composition and anatomy from my head and complete things like light and detail with references. There's always hope!!
Reference and imagination is 2 different things
Another reason to use a reference is because it usually takes awhile to finish a painting, so after awhile you'll start to forget the small details of what you were in visioning at the beginning.
Some people said using reference is good for practice but we cant use it too much because it will be tracing or re drawing whats already exist. I think its different case if you are trying to draw something reslistic like a human face or something i think thats fine to use reference unless you will use the reference to re adapt it to your kind of style....
Yes. Use a reference to learn whenever you like to, but also do one that doesn’t have a reference from time to time. Both, I think is very important for an artist :))
🤨
this is the earliest i'll probably ever be so I just want to tell you right now sam, thank you SO much for your videos. i was feeling really frustrated because i feel like my art was stagnating, but after getting into your videos i've made so much progress that I'm super happy with. i did my first background that i genuinely really liked recently and that's all thanks to your video on backgrounds. so again, thank you so much!!!
using reference will allow your fantasy/non-direct reference paintings to be exponetially better
Uh, no. That's your opinion.
Fantasy, non-direct???
This right here is why I'm taking a personal effort to better my art/learn everything I can. I see stuff like this and I say, "I wanna do that!". I love this piece and everything you've done.
So beautiful 😭😭😭
for your sketches which pencil do you occupy specifically?
like thickness, type, etc.
excellent work, you inspire me!😍
This is so beautiful : OOO ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
i need a Sam Does Art pet drawing tutorial cause all these pets he draws are so darn cute
Thanks for the advice , referencing is something that has always guided me but I feel judged when I use it , not anymore though after watching this
i thougt i was bad at drawinf cuz i use reference...dayumnnn....ma mahn..u gave me back the confidence!
References sure are really helpful if you haven't done something before and build up knowledge on it. But using references can also surely close your mind. Practicing to do things from imagination more, opens up your mind to be able to imagine things easily more in future. Using reference is good sometimes only to an extent.
Like for example, you tell a group of people to draw home and everyone draws home according to what they understood. Some might draw forest, some cities some tents saying they love to travel so home is where they go. And then you take another group and show them a picture of a proper building or a house in town. And tell them to draw home. They all will surely make proper buildings and houses.
Refremce is great for practice, but to practice your mind for long run, try to focus on imagination is great
Well those are the people that are not gifted and are a little lazy.
I believe that references are not helpful and it shouldn't be something that a person 'haven't done something before'.. because there's a drawing I haven't done before and I do it without a reference. I never use references myself, never had and never will.
It's not building knowledge by using references because a person still uses references.. so.
Using reference can surely close the mind; exactly, always did. ...But you're saying it's helpful to use references!?
Using the imagination is better than using references.
Mm
You're sort of making a good point but not really. But imagination is better than references.
Actually.. is buildings and houses are home to you, are they? When a person doesn't show you a picture and person says that "describe and draw what is home to you".. because home is totally different from where you live now or live before; what do you think what home is? Not wherever you live, because what if that's not the home to you!?
You're sort of making a good point but not really. But imagination is better than references.
Actually.. is buildings and houses are home to you, are they? When a person doesn't show you a picture and person says that "describe and draw what is home to you".. because home is totally different from where you live now or live before; what do you think what home is? Not wherever you live, because what if that's not the home to you!?
For anyone who missed it, he decided not to reshoot the entire video and just let the chain stay caught on his jacket for the duration. He notices it after filming the entire thing. true bruh moment for sure.
I think its good to draw from your imagination, every once and a while i think that people can grow dependent on references, and lose confidence in themselves, feeling or thinking that they are incapable of drawing without a reference.
Imagination is better
@@zytotempol8154 Not really better, both ways are good. It's kinda your opinion that it's better, sorry. Reference isn't better either, if you use it right then you're good. It's also not intended to copy the entire thing.
Drawing 100% from imagination doesn't really teach you anything, or improve you much as an artist. You just tread water, and repeat things you already know (or don't know). If you're already good, art turns out good, but you don't become better. Drawing 100% from reference isn't art either, it's copying. The key is in the middle ground, where you copy something but add something of your own. Or using multiple references for same image, so then it's not copying, but combining things in a new way
@@shredd5705
"Drawing 100% from imagination doesn't really teach you anything" ~And who says? Because you're jealous 'cause you can't use it?! Mm. So how are you still allowed to able to use a brain, you don't have a brain? If the brain doesn't teach you so how you're able to do anything in this world or say anything in this world, think, and etc? Keep your opinion to yourself. That paragraph right there has no sense, nor meaning.. because it's a myth.
"Or improve you as an artist" ~Ppfftt lol! Ok, now I know you just saying that out of your own butt.
A person that draws from the imagination is taught through imagination and able to get better as an artist, and if you don't understand that, it's because you're jealous then; that's your problem. If you don't think it exists then why you even here!?
How can a person trend water without even learning? You jealous tho. What are you, 1 years old with no brain?! Mm.
See, you contradicting yourself. You're so in deniable that even a person that doesn't know can tread water... So whatever you're saying makes 0 sense.
@@shredd5705
"If you're already good, art turns out good, but you don't become better." ~Are you just being an insultor who criticized and being judgmental by gaslighting and gatekeeping? Mm. It's not about a person that's already good or getting good if the art turns good.. it's art regardless no matter if you're good or not. The person is better. And atleast they're drawing. Now I know why people put themselves down.. it's 'cause of YOU.
"Drawing 100% from reference is an art either, it's copying." ~Only reference is not art; and yes, of course it's copying.. and that I will agree; but now you say one thing, then another, and I believe you're not even understanding what you're talking about nor understanding about the art world.
Can you make a video about which and what kind of refrences do you use? Basically a whole video on refrences.
Rn I’m working on some fanart, but just because everything in the picture comes straight from my brain doesn’t mean that i’m not using references for the characters and small details that I’m unsure of like hands and the proportions and stuff.
Use references :D
2:25 amazing character 💖😵
Sam, I think you should try adding a bit more fur texture to the dog and tiny highlights to its nose. Also, if you add some back strands with the highlight colour in the hair, it will look a bit more natural.
Otherwise, your depth and lighting is perfect and I love your stylisation! Great job man!
I only use reference when it comes to practicing realism and something that I don't know how to draw
Ty for the info sam does arts. Im not a beginner in art but im not that great so im trying to get more better and improve and im starting to love my style of art, (idk my style but i dont care about that right now)…. So this helps a lot!
Amazing work, love it!
References simply show you how your subject would look in nature, and you can use different references to compose a coherent painting. What I mean is that you can take different references of fruit and put it together in a fruit bowl. No one apple looks the same, but you need to know what an apple looks like, how light falls on it, and what colors are commonly found in the apple in order to accurately reproduce an apple in your fruit bowl.
Edit: I used to think that using a reference is basically just tracing, but it isn’t. It’s using something that exists to create your own pieces. Using a reference is so important to being a good artist because it literally teaches you about what the world looks like.
Your opinion