Drawing Shadows Made Simple: Quick Tips & Tricks

Welcome to Draw Tip Tuesday!

Have you ever looked at a drawing and thought, “Wow, the light and shadow make it feel so real!”? In today’s video, I’ll show you how to capture that magic using just a simple ballpoint pen. No fancy tools needed!

We'll be working from a coffee-related reference photo with gorgeous sunlight and clear drop shadows.
I’ll walk you through the process of identifying highlights, midtones, and shadows and how to create depth with contrast. Plus, I’ll give you a fun assignment to practice with your own objects at home!

Materials used: 

• Bic Ballpoint pen 

• Handbook Journal size A5

Your Assignment this week

• Grab a simple object and a desk lamp or your phone’s flashlight. Point it on an object. Move the light around and notice how the shadows change.

• Then, draw what you see!

Remember, it’s not about having the right tool. It’s about how you observe and translate what you see. Just grab what you have and start drawing. And most importantly, have fun!

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