Today we will discuss the role of values and how to simplify them.
Values are how light or dark elements of an image are. The lightest value is white and the darkest value is black. Right in the middle is where we find neutral gray.
Without values, everything we see would be virtually invisible. Contrast between values is what differentiates one object from another. Color certainly plays a role, but not as much as values.
If you looked at a black-and-white image that was only one value, you would not be able to see anything. So now, similar to the way we simplified shapes, we want to simplify values to make it easier to start a painting.
Most painters use a nine value scale to represent the visible world, which has too many values to be fully represented in painting.
But when we start a painting we want to simplify those nine values to make it easier. Then, as you progress through the painting you can add even more values, the same way you add smaller shapes as you progress through a painting.
You could simplify values with a program like photoshop. But you already have a tool that is far more efficient and effective.
The tool is your own vision. All you need to do is close one eye and squint like Popeye the sailor man. Squinting reduces the amount of light that reaches your eye so that you see only the most prominent values.
When possible it’s helpful to group all the light and dark values together when starting a painting. Not only does this makes for a much stronger composition but it makes starting a painting easier too.
So if you find yourself struggling with starting a painting, ask yourself if you squinted enough and simplified the shapes and values. Don’t make painting harder than it needs to be. If you don’t make starting a fun process, it can be easy to get frustrated and not want to paint. And nobody wants that.
Do you squint to simplify values? Feel free to leave a comment or question. It’d love to help you on your painting journey.
Stop back tomorrow (and every day) for more painting tips and lessons.
Stay inspired,
Bry