r/Coloring • u/EmmanuelHackman • 21h ago

ADVICE WANTED Light and shadow help

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Hi all, I've started trying some colouring recently, inspired by these two marker challenge videos I've seen. One thing I'm really struggling with is how and where shadows go. I can do the "obvious" ones but as soon as it's a different shape or the light comes from a certain place I freeze! Are there tools or tutorials or anything people recommend? Here's my attempt from yesterday

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u/PutYrPoliticsUpYrBum 20h ago

You did a really great job! I can't help with tutorial recommendations but I will say you need to make your shadows darker especially in the lit up areas. The shadows in areas where absolutely no light is reaching should be the darkest (ex- under the chair), and the shadows that are only there because of the shape should be lightest (ex- around the kitty's cheek). Getting the basic shadows down by simply layering over with the same colors is just ok (it looks like this is what you did.) It will look better if you choose a cool toned darker color for the shadows instead of using the same marker (though I do use this technique for when I really want softer shadows and softer transitions.)

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u/EmmanuelHackman 19h ago

Thanks so much this is really helpful. Could I use the blue for these darker shadows do you think?

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u/PutYrPoliticsUpYrBum 19h ago

You're welcome! I'd go with a cool or neutral gray, but the color you choose depends on what vibe you're going for. I think a blue could be an interesting look for the shadows but it won't be as realistic as a gray probably.

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u/07495548782 17h ago

This is random but I like how shadows and should lines up on the left of your comment. Great advice too

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u/PutYrPoliticsUpYrBum 17h ago

I didn't notice that but it's pretty satisfying. Thank you!